Volvo XC90 V8 Sport – 2007 Preview: Talk about your dichotomies. Volvo, the once stodgy brand known for its focus on safety, has debuted two models that serve to pay homage to the past while blazing full speed into the future. On one end of the spectrum is the production version of the 2008 C30 sports hatch, which draws its lineage from the old-school Volvo P1800. And then there's the brand's newest SUV – a 311-horse, sport-tuned, V8 bruiser that comes in two unique colors, one of which is Passion Red. It's the 2007 XC90 V8 Sport, and it arrives ready to tackle curvy roads with relative ease, provided you can swallow the $49,995 entry fee.

Visual enhancements that serve to distinguish the 2007 Volvo XC90 V8 Sport are subtle, except of course for the Passion Red paint. For those who choose to operate a bit lower on the radar, Electric Silver may also be selected. In addition, the Sport package includes dual chrome exhaust tips, 19-inch alloy wheels with XC pressed into the spokes and wrapped in 255/50 Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires, color-keyed wheel arches, and exterior trim done in matte silver rather than the standard chrome. Inside are seat with additional bolstering, a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, two-tone upholstery, exclusive carpeting, and unique gauges.