Large estates are useful; you can put a washing machine in the back of an Audi A6 Avant, and also into the rear of a BMW 5-Series Touring, so it comes as no surprise that you can also put it into the back of the Volvo XC70 estate. However, there is one big difference - in the Volvo you don't have to fold the rear seats. Some estates, it would appear, are more useful than others.The latest XC70 is all-new, although it bears a striking resemblance to its predecessor. Based on the new S80 saloon and utilising its front end as far as the B pillars, the rear architecture is specific to the estate with a major emphasis on load carrying flexibility and on-board security. Despite the near vertical tailgate to maximise the load area volume, the now established Volvo stepped sides and high-level light units tapering skywards cleverly disguise the interior squareness and refine the elegant balance first achieved in the original model.A small corner of the market - about 5% - will opt for the petrol version, a masterpiece of engineering which topped the Jaguar bid within the Premier Automotive Group for an in-line six and which now nestles transversely, with gearbox, between the front wheels.However, the major market interest will be for the 2.4-litre five-cylinder D5 turbo diesel engine which, when paired with the company's Geartronic transmission, provides the definitive example of smoothness for a self-shifting diesel car. This turbocharged unit produces 182bhp with 295lb/ft of torque available from 2000rpm and can take the car from rest to the benchmark 60mph in just over 9 seconds with a potential top speed of 127 mph.Marginally hesitant to roll off the mark initially, the D5 gathers speed quickly and smoothly in the D5 with the six-speed Geartronic auto transmission providing almost seamless changes both up and down the box. For those who would like to opt for manual control on occasions, then the gearlever can be tipped sideways into a manual gate where ratios can be selected with a gentle in-line push. The overriding attraction is the smoothness of the power delivery and the quietness of the cabin, well insulated from the engine bay.The XC70 has a higher ride height than the V70 with which it shares its pedigree, and this gives an on-road advantage of better all-round vision than the standard vehicle. But with a different suspension set-up, it also provides an improved, more cushioned ride with a slower return when unsettled, and on-road performance clearly benefits from the upgrades for off-road work.The vehicle is fitted with Volvo's DSTC (dynamic stability and traction control) system which enhances cornering stability and reduces the risk of a skid by using feedback form numerous sensors to balance throttle and braking applications. In addition there is the security of permanent four-wheel drive and the option, for more spirited drivers, of the company's Four-C chassis enhancement package which basically offers electronically-controlled damper adjustment.With torsional rigidity improved by 15% over the previous model, and improved ground clearance, ramp angles and wading depth, the XC70 asserts itself more competently off-road, with a test session on standard road tyres clearly highlighting a versatility which the majority of owners will rarely need or want to experience.In deep mud and loose shale, there was no hesitation with the exception of the built-in one. The new XC70 features hill descent control (HDC) and this uses the brakes to modulate the amount of torque distributed to each wheel, and when selected for steep descents holds the car to a maximum of 6mph. The system also works in reverse which makes it ideal in circumstances such as reversing a boat down a steep slipway. Another convenient manoeuvring feature is the power parking brake which is activated by tipping the dash-mounted switch and automatically releases on moving off.Style-wise, the XC70 adds scratchproof protective cladding along its lower extremities, heavier bumpers and front and rear scuff plates for more serious off-road protection.Inside, there is the clean-cut Volvo cabin with increased space for both passengers and luggage. Leather upholstery is standard, as is brushed aluminium trim. And while the vehicle pushes the safety parameters for ultimate protection along with a high level of specification, there is room for additional choices providing the opportunity for many owners to specify their own bespoke vehicles. The load area features a pair of recessed floor rails to secure items in transit, and additional fittings can be purchased for these, for example to hold a pair of mountain bikes, which, with the front wheels removed can be carried with the rear seats in situ.Child safety protection includes a deeper curtain airbag and the option of rear booster cushions which allow two additional seating heights so that they are properly positioned for the seat belts.Additional safety equipment includes the company's blind sport information system (BLIS) at £450, adaptive cruise control with collision warning and brake support (ACC), and the personal car communicator (PCC). This is used to lock and unlock the car, but in addition advises the owner if the alarm has been triggered and, using a heartbeat monitor, to detect if someone is in the car.Security measures include an underfloor storage tray in the luggage area which is held securely closed by the deadlocked tailgate, while laminated glass all-round minimises break-in risks.Overall, Volvo has maintained the lead it established half a century ago when it introduced the premium estate car. It has maintained its practicality while refining its lines and interior, and at the same time developed the power units to a level where versatility is not the only reason to choose a Volvo estate. While the XC is designed to get off the beaten track, it can access more adventurous by-ways with its additional ground clearance and competent all-wheel drive, giving owners the option of using the car for more than they originally intended. Engine 2400cc, 5 cylinders Power 182bhp Transmission 6-speed automatic Fuel/CO2 34.0mpg / 219g/km Acceleration 0-62mph: 9.9 seconds Top speed 127mph Price £32,385 Details correct at publication date