My new car

[SKIQUATTRO]

my understanding is that the volvos (my 2008 xc70 included) are really FWD but will send power to slipping wheels when needed (not like awd of audi or subi)

I wanted to get a FWD car and put snows on it as it'd be cheaper than paying for AWD with crap stock tires...we got the car 'cause the wife liked it, she liked the beefier look and higher seat height than the V70...my feeling is that a fwd with snows is better and a cheaper alternative than buying AWD (mostly marketing hype) with stock tires....

 

[Glenn]

Sounds like that's somewhat of a common problem. Interesting device too. It's needed to run the power to the rear wheels. Since the engine is set up east/west, it has to send the power north/south.

I did a quick google:

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&...d=1&ved=0CAwQBSgA&q=angle+gear,+volvo&spell=1

 

[hammer]

Just hit over 10K miles...very pleased with the car. No additional mechanical issues, not that I'm expecting any.

Had some initial concerns about handling in the snow with the low-profile all-seasons (yes, I should get snows), but the car did just fine during the last snowy commute, had no issues on the un-plowed backroads.

I realize that the AWD system is really FWD most of the time, but the power application to the rear wheels is pretty quick.

 

[WakeboardMom]

Just hit over 10K miles...very pleased with the car. No additional mechanical issues, not that I'm expecting any.

Had some initial concerns about handling in the snow with the low-profile all-seasons (yes, I should get snows), but the car did just fine during the last snowy commute, had no issues on the un-plowed backroads.

I realize that the AWD system is really FWD most of the time, but the power application to the rear wheels is pretty quick.

That's great that you had no issues on the un-plowed roads. We used to put my C70 (convertible) away for the winter; but then did what others here have advised. We bought a cheap set of rims and put snow tires on it. My daughter drove it last winter with no problems. (She's away at school this year, so it's been garaged this winter.)

Glad to hear you're likin' your car. We've loved our Volvos...even after the first one we owned wasn't the greatest. (1985 - first generation turbo had some issues.) Glad we gave them another chance. We love the XC70. Hope you continue to enjoy it!