A station wagon that prides itself on performance seems a bit hard-to-believe, but the Volvo V70 R is raring to go, go, go. This high-performance wagon (capable of reaching 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds) is a real ride. There are icons to underscore that this Volvo smacks speed, but the steel blue colored gauge dials and a few other rather low-key performance cues are subtle. As the most powerful V in the line-up, the V70 R employs a 2.5-liter five-cylinder inline turbocharged engine that produces 300 horsepower and 295 pounds-feet of torque between 1950 and 5250 rpm. For tech-heads, the engine has a dual wide range CVVT (continuously variable valve timing) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. The engine can be mated to a new optional 6-speed Geartronic automatic transmission.

New for 2006 on the V70 R is an all-wheel-drive with instant traction using a next-generation computer-controlled Haldex AWD system that can deliver up to 50 percent more torque to the rear axle when needed. Of note: The 2006 model year discontinues the V70 T5. Other 2006 changes: a new Convenience Package (replacing the Touring Package) that provides items such as cargo net, power child door locks and sunglass holder. Volvo V 70 R staples include 17-inch alloy wheels and high performance Pirelli tires, an electronically controlled chassis/suspension with three settings, Brembo four-piston aluminum disc brake calipers, and Bi-Xenon headlamps with washers. On the mileage side, the V 70 R clips per gallon counts of 18 city/25 highway. MSRP of the Volvo V70 R is $39,545.