XC70 Sloppy-ish Steering

Greetings,

I am looking at purchasing a 2004 XC70 with 48k. Everything on it is in
great shape. While test driving the little gem (the car was warmed up, dry
pavement, 60 degrees, and new tires), when I took it into a few 30mph
corners at about 35-40 , the steering seemed a little sloppy. It's
difficult to describe, but as I would enter the turn, the vehicle would
start to turn, but further into the turn, it seemed to slip for a moment.
It was subtle, but I could notice it. Another way to describe it would be
as if the steering was on a cog and chain, and the chain slipped a tooth.
Speaking to a mechanic, he suggested it could be something as simple as low
steering fluid (which he then commented would be odd in such a new vehicle).
I have never driven an AWD vehicle before, so I don't know if this is
normal.

Any suggestions/comments anyone could offer, it would be greatly
appreciated.

Dave

 

I've driven a 2003 XC70 several times. In comparison with my V70 with
234 45 17 tires is does feel looose, or at least less precise. Indeed
the owner of that car says he notices the difference while driving my
car.

I attribute the vague sensation to a combination of things: The tires
are almost plush riding with generous sidewalls, the car sits several
inches higher, the seats seem a bit softer.