I am new to this forum and don't know whether this post is in the right column. This is in regard to our 2003 Mercedes C240 my wife and I have traded in for the above new Volvo. We have always been primarily Mercedes drivers all due to the fact that it's reliable, drives quietly and I was born in Germany. The new Volvo is of course sturdy and safe but seems to ride more harshly(like a SUV). Is noisy inside and noisier when the sunrood is open.(depressing the sunroofs wind deflector seems to make it quieter). There's a visible steady motor vibration at idle(typical of the 5 cylinder ??) The steering is very positive and sensitive as there is not speed regulated steering. One cannot compare the interior space of the Volvo wagon to a Mercedes which is tiny compared to the Volvo but at highway speeds the vast interior is noisy when not fully loaded as is the suspension which is rigid and harsh going over bumps. I like the Volvo very much.....its seating is much more comfortable then the Mercedes. Why do Volvo engineers have exposed handholds on the drivers and passenger side instead of foldable ones. These appendages are dangerous in a collision. They would penetrate ones skull. I have not become aware of all these negatives until I drove the car for 3 weeks have they become apparent that our old 2003 Mercedes C240 had greater virtues in comfort and safety. Is the Volvo V70 a less refined car?
Appreciate your opinion and input. Thank you...
