I'm a sucker for new technology.

So you can imagine I was right at home with the 2007 Volvo S80. Although the redesigned all-wheel drive four-door sedan looks quite similar to the old one, don't be fooled. This new car is chock full of all kinds of cool gadgetry -- and has the brand's first V-8 engine.

	www.volvocars.us Fuel mileage for the 311-horsepower, 4.4-liter V-6 Volvo S80 was rated at 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Click photo for larger image.

Our test model was the S80 V-8 AWD A SR with a base price of $47,350. After options -- a sport package, speed-sensitive steering, an audio package and lots of other good things -- the final price was $56,025. Fuel mileage with the 311-horsepower, 4.4-liter V-8 was rated at 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

There's also a 235-horsepower, 3.2-liter in-line six, which starts at $38,705.

Let's get down to the good stuff: the new gizmos.

First, there's the Blind Spot Information system, which alerts you if a car in the next lane is approaching. It operates via cameras mounted into the base of the mirrors on the doors . I liked the system, although the warning lights in the inside pillar posts could be distracting at first.

Then there's something called a Heartbeat Sensor System, a pocket-sized control module that will let you know if somebody is lurking inside the car. It's part of the car's optional Personal Car Communicator, which comes with both keyless access and starting.

There's also the Distronic Cruise Control System, which maintains a safe driving distance between you and the next car on the highway. I found the cruise control system to be counterintuitive, with unusual symbols that require you to familiarize yourself with the controls before you try to use the system.

Safety equipment is abundant, of course. Dynamic stability traction control, side curtain head air bags, padded head restraints, a whiplash protection system and other items are standard.

This car is incredibly comfortable, partly because Volvo's seats are almost beyond reproach in terms of support, comfort and safety. A beautiful "slim line" console graces the instrument panel -- it's a pencil thin flowing, curved strip containing audio and climate controls.

The S80 is a pretty strong handler and hugs the road well. There are three ride settings you can use -- comfort, sport and advanced -- and they did feel adequately different to make it worth experimenting.

This was, needless to say, a soothing, luxurious car. And for the technology and safety minded among you, an excellent choice to consider.