I've been living with an '02 S60AWD since January of '02.
The "A" pillars are a bit on the heavy side, which has been mentioned in
magazine road tests, etc. I've never really though of it in practical
daily use. Vision to the rear, as in parking, isn't great, but this is
the price for the search that makers are conducting these days for
carrying capacity and aerodynamics.
This less-than-super rear vision is a problem with cars of like style
and price. We looked at the BMW 330xi, but found it too uncomfortable
(seats don't compare to Volvo) and generally restrictive. They did have
one clever trick, in that the outside rear view mirror on the right side
tilts down when Reverse is selected - not as much of a help as one might
hope.
So, as suggested, take a ride and see what you think. The car's too
nice for a small problem to decide unless you are continually parallel
parking all day - but then I do not know what else you might choose.
bob noble
Reno, NV, USA
