The T5 delivers sheer driving excitement, handling kinks and curves with precision and control. Its lively kick and lithe attitude kindle a soothing sense of confidence, a sense that though it's an unpredictable path we travel, with pitfalls along the way, the going doesn't have to be dangerous or even uncomfortable in a Volvo.

The T5's high-pressure intercooled turbo puts out 247 horsepower and churns 243 pounds-feet of torque across a flat band spread between 1800 and 4800 rpm. With high torque at relatively low engine speed, and the typical turbo lag minimized, this engines impresses with its quick surges and quiet demeanor.

The five-speed manual gearbox, rarely found in a wagon, has a sporty short-throw stick and brings crisp control. The optional five-speed Geartronic allows shift-it-yourself maneuvers by simply throwing the gear selector lever to the left and locking it in the gate. Then push the lever forward to bump up a gear, or tip it rearward to shift down.

The new V70 platform, lifted from Volvo's larger S80 sedan, has a longer wheelbase and broader track than the pre-2001 model. That creates a solid foundation to attach the MacPherson-strut front suspension and multi-link rear axle. Bonding of body panels in lieu of spot welding contributes to exceptional torsional stiffness, which in turn defines the car's predictable linear behavior.

Push the T5 through downhill curves and it remains anchored to the pavement, with the body maintaining a level stance. There's little lateral lean through the turns, and scant dive from the nose when standing on brakes. Nor does the tail dip during a sudden acceleration.

All V70s now feature ABS to prevent brake lock-up, along with Emergency Brake Assist and electronic brake force distribution (EBD) to ensure maximum stopping power under all conditions.

Now standard on T5 is Volvo's Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), employing an on-board computer and various motion sensors tied to the anti-lock brakes. This sophisticated device monitors the vehicle's forward progress and, if potentially dangerous oversteer or understeer is detected, acts automatically to correct the instability by braking one or more wheels.

It all adds up to an agile but controllable car, capable of sporty moves and high performance; but with the flavor of a plush luxury sedan.