Wheels Magazine 
October, 2000
Here's the most interesting Volvo in decades. It can do most things most people want a conventional truck-like 4WD to do, but more efficiently, quietly, smoothly, comfortably and safely.
A combination of uplifted suspension and tall tyres on 16in wheels, hike the Cross Country's ground clearance to beyond 200mm. The 4WD system is very simple, adding about 100kg to the car. Unlike in many permanent 4WD layouts, the Volvo design doesn't require an expensive and weighty third inter-axle differential.
As well as the 4WD hardware there's an electronic traction system that utilises the Cross Country's standard anti-skid brakes. Called TRACS, it's able to individually brake a wheel that's slipping under power, at speeds up to 80km/h.
The Volvo's handling is practically foolproof. There's ground clearance enough to give peace of mind when straddling high-crowned tracks, and a sturdy aluminium bashplate beneath the engine and transmission is an option. The Cross Country's all independent suspension does a much better - and quieter - job of soaking up dirt road potholes and corrugations than the typical big 4WD wagon. Almost anywhere there's a road, this Volvo will take you, comfortably.
There's no escaping the effects of the Cross Country's higher centre of gravity on sealed roads. The tall Volvo doesn't feel entirely comfortable cornering at speed. It rolls from side to side and the coarse-treaded tyres don't give the same levels of grip or steering feel as in front-drive V70 models.
The Cross Country is equipped with the same low-pressure turbocharged five cylinder engine as the V70 2.4T. It's pleasantly smooth and flexible.
Because the Cross Country has the clearance and other characteristics to qualify for the 4WD import duty of five percent - instead of the 15 percent car rate - the price is a pleasant surprise.
The basic Cross Country manual is $61,950, with auto adding $2000.
So you can add price to the reasons why the Cross Country is the most interesting Volvo in ages.