Overview & Reviews

In years gone by, Volvos were known as boxy, square lumps -- reliable and safe, perhaps, but never styling trendsetters. The Swedes finally joined the styling parade in the late '90s with the introduction of the slightly more curvaceous Volvo C70. Available as a coupe or convertible, the two-door C70 shared much of its underlying hardware with the S70 sedan of the time. Detail improvements through the years -- including trim level and color changes, and minor engine upgrades with low- and high-output turbo options -- kept the first-generation C70 fresh enough for its relatively low volume of customers.

A fully redesigned Volvo C70 debuted for 2006, and it was a whole new ball game. Rather than offering separate coupe and convertible models, Volvo decided to join the herd again and offer a handsome new retractable hardtop that opens and closes at the touch of a button. Fortunately, the attractive shape of the first C70 has largely carried over to the second. The C70 is no sports car, but it should appeal to those who want style and comfort in a luxury convertible.

Current Volvo C70
The 2012 Volvo C70 is a four-passenger luxury convertible with a retractable hardtop. It comes in a single trim level. Standard highlights include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, eight-way power front seats, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, HD radio, an iPod/USB audio interface and an auxiliary audio jack. A couple of option packages are available that add items such as rear parking sensors, keyless ignition/entry, a navigation system, an upgraded audio system, heated front seats, 18-inch alloy wheels and adaptive bi-xenon headlights.

The Volvo C70 is based on the same platform used for the recently discontinued compact S40 sedan and V50 wagon. For power, the C70 relies on a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine developing 227 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed automatic with manual shift control. When the C70's steel roof is up, it gives the car coupelike styling, added rigidity and better noise isolation than a soft top. When the roof is powered down, the C70's dual-hinged trunk lid opens in a reverse motion and the roof pieces arc backward and stack inside the trunk. Overall, the process is seamless and takes about 30 seconds to complete.

Though acceleration is certainly not blistering, the turbocharged engine provides enough low-end torque to get the C70 moving briskly from a stop and to allow easy passing and merging at highway speeds. If you're looking for sports car handling you're bound to be disappointed, as the steering feels a bit numb and the suspension allows a good deal of body roll when pushing the car hard on a curvy stretch of asphalt. However, most convertible shoppers will likely find the C70 to be a pleasant experience, as it feels solid and provides a compliant ride over the bumps and ruts. With the top up, the cabin is luxury car quiet, and the breeze is well-controlled with the top down.

Our editors agree that consumers interested in a comfortable four-passenger convertible should take a close look at the Volvo C70 T5. Though it may not be quite as fun to drive as its European and Japanese competitors, a strong case can still be made for the C70 given its attractive design, lower price, long list of safety equipment and comfortable ergonomics.

Used Volvo C70 Models
The present second-generation C70 debuted in 2006. Notable changes since then include a slight power bump in '08 from 218 hp to 227. Prior to '09, Bluetooth was unavailable, and the C70's optional navigation system was not hard-drive-based and lacked some of the current system's features. Volvo also offered a six-speed manual transmission from 2006-'10.

The first-generation C70 appeared in 1998 as part of Volvo's effort to polish its brand image with a bit of style and desirability. Two models, a two-door coupe and a two-door convertible with a traditional soft top, were initially available. This first C70 was comfortable and competent, with attractive and elegant styling, but we found its uninspiring underpinnings made it a rather bland car to drive, particularly in comparison to hotter European coupes or convertibles. For power, Volvo installed either a 236-hp turbocharged inline five-cylinder engine or a less powerful 190-hp version.

Minor equipment changes carried the Volvo C70 through its first few years. The 190-hp engine was originally available on the coupe but then dropped in 2001. The high-output engine wasn't available on the convertible until 2000. In 2003, Volvo discontinued the C70 coupe; convertible production ended after 2004. At the time, we found the C70 to be generally desirable, though its dated underpinnings put it at an increasing disadvantage against fresher competitors as the years went on, especially in terms of handling performance.

User Reviews:

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  Love the ride, hardtop allows year round use! - 2013 Volvo C70
  By Volvo C70 Caspian Blue Fan! Go Cats! - August 14 - 3:39 am

  I would recommend the BLIS system if you are used to having it. I purchased mine as a certified one since it one only had 7500 miles for a 2013, 0.9% financing, favorite calcite interior with caspian blue exterior. The interior is very luxurious; however, electronics/stereo could be updated. Then again, it is a 2013 car! I dont need entertainment.. just some music, bluetooth and the car! Top down it is a beautiful car; Top up it is a nice coupe to be used almost year round! Hardtop design is pretty incredible.. and you still have some trunk space available with top down. I purchased seat protectors and windbreaker on ebay for additional use/convenience. Several reviews say power is insufficient, but i am quite happy with it. Has all the power I need in town and on the highway. Love it! Love it! Update after 7 months of ownership: Love the flexibility of a true car with convertible option depending on weather or travel plans. Car has been wonderful with no issues! Can load my golf clubs easily in the trunk! Seats are so sweet and comfy!

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  Ultimate Balance of Luxury & Sport - 2008 Volvo C70
  By Terri Powers - June 6 - 5:40 am

  This is a phenomenal car. Fun to drive, safest car available, spacious backseat and trunk. The whole experience was pleasurable.

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  One Month in a C70-So Far So Good! - 2004 Volvo C70
  By Dave Hirsch - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I am very pleased with this automobile thus far. My only complaint is that after finally having a fully automatic convertible top, it is a bit limiting as to the "built-in" safety limits on using it (must be in Park, Emergency Brake engaged, level ground!). The car is extremely comfortable and well appointed!

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  Yippee - 2010 Volvo C70
  By thirdwiley - May 31 - 5:50 am

  From its Pinifarina inspired design to its Volvo safety and solidity; this is a great car. After 5 months it is still free of squeaks and rattles. Road and wind noise are minimal at top-up speeds up to 85 mph and top-down up to 65 mph. I average 21 mpg at 25 mph and 26 mpg at 65 mph. The Edmunds review software forced me to select a Manual transmission; it only comes in automatic but the transmission works great.

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  Very nice car! - 2008 Volvo C70
  By 2007 Volvo C70 T5 2d - May 28 - 10:33 pm

  After test driving the BMW convertible, this Volvo became an easy choice. Better looks, perfect sound system (please get the upgrade) and best of all has more airbags than I can count. The seats are very comfortable, the interior is nice and easy to use buttons, I also got the Climate package, 6 mo free Sirius, 1 year free maintenance and best of all $10K of the sticker price. All I need now is some sun. Enjoy your purchase.

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  My Fun Car - 2001 Volvo C70
  By Errigal - May 25 - 2:00 am

  This was my first fun car and convertible and I have no regrets!!! This is truly a classy, elegant, sexy and sporty vehicle that also provides Volvo safety and practicality. My job involves regional travel and this baby has been a blast to drive with the top down. I am not the best driver of mountain roads but with this car I am confident. It just whips around those mountain curves and hugs the road while the wind whips through your hair and the music plays on one of the best sound systems. If you are shy and dont want to be noticed wherever you go, dont buy this car....otherwise, go for it!!!!

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  Worst Car Ever Owned - 2002 Volvo C70
  By Susan from NJ - May 8 - 10:00 am

  I never knew that a car could be in the shop more than you drive it - but I found one !! 21 times in the 1st 2 years - the sad part is that Volvo refused to take it back - it would have been in their best interest - they wouldnt be getting reviews like this one. If anything could go wrong - it did !! But we have low milage and the lease is almost over. They agreed that they were having a lot of electrical problems with that model - tops not working, lights not working, windows not working - thats why they have discontinued this model - so they say. Just bought a BMW - hopes it better !!

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  Midlife Crisis - 2004 Volvo C70
  By Philliptsr - April 11 - 2:00 am

  After buying I remember why I want a convertable again. The comfort and handling is just what was needed to allow me to again enjoy the open air and the looks that go with driving topless. The road performance and gas mileage for the car is a pleasant suprise. I live outside of town and commute 29 miles each way through traffic and still average 27.2 MPG.

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  best overall midsized convertable - 2004 Volvo C70
  By B.Combs - March 26 - 10:00 am

  this vehicle replaced a merz 560sl.Which was the 6th merz I had owned.I drove and checked out all midsized convertables on the market and found this car to be the best overall one on the market. The turbo is a must as the car without the turbo is too slugish.The safety features of the Volvo are well known for years but the style was always like a box.This model is very sleek and eye catching.The performance is excellant and the highest when facturing in the price. This car has gotten more comments than any of my mercedes and I love the car.

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  Its a lemon - 2002 Volvo C70
  By maminc70 - March 15 - 4:07 am

  I bought my 2002 C70 used in 2009. It ran great for about 6 months & then had a host of problems that caused multiple trips to the shop, including one that lasted 3 months. The car doesnt always start. Turning the key over and trying again sometimes works, but Volvo told me that trick as they cant fix it. The transmission slips & it has gotten progressively worse to the point that the car is only reliable for trips under 15 min. Volvo cant diagnose that problem either & suggested changing the trans, but will not guarantee that its the fix. The rear windshield has dropped & is suspended by the headliner. I need an auto upholstery shop to stitch it back in as the glue wont hold.