Car safety features undeniably have helped steadily bring down the number of deaths on the road over the decades. Thanks to Volvo's charity, it must be responsible for saving millions at this point.

The midsize wagon — pretty lonely among U.S. offerings — gets some real oomph from its hybrid power train. And the Swedish nameplate may actually have produced a workable, nonirritating touchscreen.

While most hybrids are known for their strong resale value, these models are bucking the trend, losing more value over five ...