Volvo offers two other safety options that make use of telemonitoring. First, there's the adaptive cruise control, which is part of the Collision Avoidance System. It allows drivers to "synchronize" their car with the flow of traffic. It proves especially useful in normal driving conditions, on the highway -- not in extremely dense traffic.
Seeing what you otherwise couldn't
Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is another advanced technology that allows you to safely move through traffic. Thanks to a pair of mirror-mounted cameras, the system detects the presence of vehicles in either rear blind spot. If that's the case, a light flashes on the A-pillar to remind the driver not to change lanes.
During my test week, the BLIS showed relative effectiveness: on a few occasions, the light blinked when it shouldn't have. That being said, for drivers who keep their focus straight on the traffic ahead, such warming signals provide very useful complementary information.
All this technological hardware, plus the luxurious interior environment of the XC70, tend to justify its hefty bill. But are consumers willing to spend so much on a... Volvo, no matter how sophisticated it may be?
Predictable road manners with a great AWD system
Excellent bucket seats and a stylish dashboard
Versatile cargo area
Powerful swivelling headlights
PCC
Engine could use a bit more power
Inconsistency of BLIS
Hefty price
photo:Philippe Champoux
 |
| The BLIS is one of many safety features available with the XC70. |
Seeing what you otherwise couldn't
Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is another advanced technology that allows you to safely move through traffic. Thanks to a pair of mirror-mounted cameras, the system detects the presence of vehicles in either rear blind spot. If that's the case, a light flashes on the A-pillar to remind the driver not to change lanes.
During my test week, the BLIS showed relative effectiveness: on a few occasions, the light blinked when it shouldn't have. That being said, for drivers who keep their focus straight on the traffic ahead, such warming signals provide very useful complementary information.
All this technological hardware, plus the luxurious interior environment of the XC70, tend to justify its hefty bill. But are consumers willing to spend so much on a... Volvo, no matter how sophisticated it may be?
 |
Excellent bucket seats and a stylish dashboard
Versatile cargo area
Powerful swivelling headlights
PCC
 |
Engine could use a bit more power
Inconsistency of BLIS
 |
Hefty price
photo:Philippe Champoux
Article Gallery