Great Volvo history of focusing on safety and crashworthiness. Many airbags and multiple frame material choices to improve safety. Supplemental systems (whiplash prevention, side impact, emergency brake assist). Very grippy brakes.
Solid performance from the turbocharged 5 cylinder engine with good fuel economy (usually ~30-31 highway, as high as 37 seen). Lots of torque makes it a fun drive.
Loads of room -- far better than the VW, Audi, Saab, and BMW I compared it to. Easy to folk the seats to create a large, flat load floor.
Handles solidly in stock form, even better with simple modifications.