First Impressions
You might have thought that 4x4s are something of a no-no at the moment, but Volvo insists that there's a real growth in demand for the compact models. Buyers are downsizing and there are plenty out there still looking for that high driving position and feeling of security you get in an SUV.

But call this a Sports Utility or a 4x4 at your peril. The 2008 Volvo XC60 is a Crossover, combining the attributes of any you car you care to think of in one distinctive package. It even has sporting pretensions according to the British design director Steve Mattin, as well as hinting at the design direction of future Volvos.

This growth in sales of compact SUVs is slightly misleading. A significant proportion of the volume is down to the outstanding success of Nissan's Qashqai, a car with more appeal as a tall hatchback than as a 4x4. But there is still a lot of momentum behind the segment from a number of manufacturers.

In just 12 months we have gained the Ford Kuga, Renault Koleos, new Nissan X-Trail and the VW Tiguan, all pitching up against the popular Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. But the 2008 Volvo XC60  is aiming higher, at premium class rivals like the Freelander, BMW X3 and forthcoming Audi Q5.