2012 Volvo XC70, S80: Ch-Ch-Changes

Both vehicles now have a Pedestrian Detection system as an available option. This system first debuted on the S60. It uses radar and a camera to detect people in the car’s path and trigger alerts or, if necessary, applies full braking. Volvo’s City Safety system is now standard on both vehicles: The system can lessen or avoid low-speed rear-end collisions automatically, up to 19 mph. We found both systems to be disappointing when we tested them in the Volvo S60; hopefully, Volvo has made some changes.

Along with those safety updates, adaptive cruise control is another new option. The system is now capable of bringing the vehicle to a complete stop and all the way back up to the preselected speed, depending on traffic situations.

The XC70 and S80 now come with a standard 7-inch color screen and a multimedia system, called Sensus. This system first showed up on the redesigned 2011 Volvo S60; we also thought this system was a bit bewildering.

The standard Bluetooth system is now capable of wireless music streaming. Every Volvo now has this feature.

In terms of aesthetic upgrades, the S80 now has side mirrors with integrated LED turn indicators. New wheel designs, interior color designs, wood trims and ambient lighting (S80 only) are also available.

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