Overview & Reviews

The Volvo V70 is the latest in a long line of safe and practical midsize wagons from the venerable Swedish company. The V70 has become progressively more stylish and luxurious through the years, while maintaining its superior reputation for safety. Featuring the cargo room of an SUV along with the secure handling and (until recently) the fuel economy of a sedan, the Volvo V70 has always had a lot to offer for families who could afford the somewhat steep price of entry.

When it first debuted, the V70 was no more than a refreshed version of the 850 wagon, though that's not necessarily a bad thing. It offered class-leading safety and spaciousness along with sprightly turbocharged engines and enough luxury to keep well-heeled buyers happy. The second-generation V70 brought revolutionary changes -- no longer a breadbox on wheels, this curvaceous model flaunted swept-back, hunkered-down styling that was unprecedented among midsize Volvo wagons. It also offered more powerful engines in addition to the expected array of safety and luxury features.

The current-generation Volvo V70 continues the positive aesthetic trend started by its predecessor, boasting eye-catching style inside and out. With the recent influx of capable midsize wagons and family-oriented crossover SUVs, however, the competition is stiffer than ever. Compared with similarly priced wagons and crossovers from other manufacturers, the current V70's performance is somewhat lacking, and fuel economy is also unimpressive. Families attracted to the V70's safety and utility may also want to consider competing models that provide these traits as well as superior power and/or efficiency.

Current Volvo V70

The Volvo V70 competes in the midsize wagon segment. Offered in only one trim level, the V70 comes standard with a decent array of premium features, including alloy wheels, automatic climate control, a power driver seat and Bluetooth. Optional accoutrements include active bi-xenon headlights, leather upholstery, satellite radio, a premium audio system, a navigation system and upscale safety features like a blind-spot warning system and adaptive cruise control with collision warning. For consumers who want a little luxury in their family wagon, the V70 will not disappoint.

While past V70s were powered by an eccentric array of five-cylinder engines, the current model is motivated by a 3.2-liter inline-6 that delivers 235 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels. The sole available transmission is a six-speed automatic with manual shift control. Although the V70 is a generally competitive car in its segment, we have some reservations about this powertrain. Acceleration and fuel economy are mediocre enough to make us question why you'd buy a V70 instead of a larger crossover SUV.

Such shortcomings would have been more forgivable in the 1990s, when Volvo justly enjoyed a peerless reputation for automotive safety. Other manufacturers have closed the gap in recent years, however, which has enabled safety-minded consumers to be more discerning about other aspects of the driving experience. Fortunately, the V70 has most of these bases covered with its luxurious and spacious cabin, smooth and supple ride, and secure if uninspiring handling. But its lackluster powertrain won't do it any favors in a segment where top safety scores have become more or less par for the course.

Used Volvo V70 Models

Introduced for 2008, the present third-generation Volvo V70 has since been blessed with additional standard and optional features, including standard Bluetooth and various optional audio upgrades.

The second-generation Volvo V70 arrived on our shores in 2001 and didn't leave until 2007. It boasted a sleeker shape and a new platform shared with the S80 sedan, as well as a striking interior layout largely borrowed from the S60 sedan. Initial trim levels were the base 2.4, 2.4T, T5 and XC. Base models were powered by the venerable naturally aspirated 2.4-liter engine, while 2.4T models received a 197-hp turbocharged variant. The T5 was the most powerful version, with 247 hp.

In reviews at the time, we commented favorably about the V70's combination of style, safety and luxury. We also appreciated the available high-powered turbocharged power plants. Our main criticisms were the wagon's tight rear legroom and high price with options, though depreciation has largely mitigated this concern for used Volvo shoppers.

If you're looking for a used Volvo V70 from this generation, there are a few changes to be aware of. In 2004, the 2.4T was replaced by the 2.5T, which offered a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder that pumped out 208 hp. An all-wheel-drive V70 (separate from the SUV-styled XC trim level) was available in 2.4T trim for 2002 and 2.5T trim for 2003-'04. The XC eventually became marketed as a separate model beginning in 2004. There was also a high-performance V70 R model, which was a 300-hp all-wheel-drive wonder wagon. It was available from 2004-'07. In terms of features, Volvo made minor improvements through the model run, but no particular year is a significant standout.

The first-generation V70 traces its roots back to the midsize Volvo 850, which debuted in 1993 as the first front-wheel-drive Volvo to be offered stateside. With its advanced safety features (including side airbags from 1995 onward), capacious interior and distinctive lineup of five-cylinder engines, this endearingly boxy people mover quickly became a strong seller. Base models were powered by a 2.4-liter 168-hp naturally aspirated five-cylinder engine, while the T5 model featured a sprightly 222-hp turbocharged inline-5. The GLT received a 2.4-liter 190-hp turbocharged-5 for 1997. Family-minded enthusiasts and their young ones could enjoy world-class performance courtesy of the even more powerful T5 R (later simply "R"), a 240-hp rocket sled that was one of the world's fastest wagons in its day.

The 850 wagon was revised and renamed "V70" for 1998. Apart from mildly updated front-end styling, a streamlined control layout and slightly softer suspension settings, not much had changed. All-wheel drive became an option on GLT models in 1998, and output in the T5 increased to 236 hp, while the top-performing R model was boosted to 246 hp. The base model and midlevel GLT had the same engines as before. A V70 XC version debuted for '98, sporting the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, increased ground clearance, skid plates and off-road styling cues.

It's worth noting that since Ford took the helm in the late '90s, Volvos have lacked the rock-solid reliability of brands like Acura and Lexus, and they can also be expensive to repair. Finding a good certified used Volvo V70 or a car that still has the factory warranty might be the best way to go.

User Reviews:

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  What happened to Volvo? - 1998 Volvo V70
  By E. Knapp - June 6 - 7:33 am

  I have always had a Volvo since the mid 80s. The quality of them, CHEAP Plastic, and way too much for parts and service, almost a 300% mark up on the stuff. The Emissions started acting up and the car will not pass even after spending $1000 on service only to be told it cant be fixed. As well as there is a shake in the front end (no accidents) and been in twice never found out what was wrong. Perfect alignment Never buy another one!

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  Leaks more than the Gulf - 2001 Volvo V70
  By oilslick - October 16 - 12:36 pm

  This car was a problem child the moment we got it. Transmission computer failed, then the trans blew, engine mounts continually fail, side marker lights fell out several times. dipstick is constantly shot out, spraying oil everywhere, no solution from repair shop. Eats oil and gas like its going out of style. semi-auto shifter broke early, expensive to fix. It is safe though, spends more time in the shop than on the road!

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  Do not buy 2004 2.5T AWD V70 - 2004 Volvo V70
  By csanzo - October 9 - 11:25 am

  This car was my dream car until at 103000 miles the engine simply died. It was in the shop for three months, EEC computer replaced, and another computer replaced and the flywheel was warped and replaced. Even after that - and a $3000 plus repair bill - no one could fix the car!! Any car that is not able to be repaired should never be sold!! DO NOT BUY!

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  Trouble Trouble Trouble - 1998 Volvo V70
  By PCHB - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Other reviewers have either loved this car or hated it. I fall in the hated it category due to very poor reliability, the list is endless. Lost all tires in the first 3 months (bad batch of Continental), visited the shop 8 times due to Check engine light solved finally by a complete fuel system replacement, then wiper motor went, then headlight system, then airconditioning, then at 53,000 dirve shaft, AWD system and clutch! Need I say more! I did force Volvo into a full-blue bokk +$5000 buy-back on a 2002 AWD (with extended warranty) - it has been perfect.

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  Never ever again My friends too - 1998 Volvo V70
  By DaveM - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Got this v70glt for my wife new. From the start it was a nightmare. I cant tell you how many times its been in the shop. But I know all the service managers by their first names. It is getting worse over time. Im out at 75K with thousands spent in repairs. Run dont walk.

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  Poor Reliabilit - 1998 Volvo V70
  By Joannea - February 10 - 10:00 am

  This Volvo is very poor in reliability.I cant begin to tell whats gone wrong with it. It just a piece of junk. One time, it was in the shop for six weeks,however, they did give me a loaner. I missed the California lemon law because I kept thinking this was the last problem Id have with it. I wrote Volvo and I got a reply stating what a wonderful car they built. My advice, do a lot of checking amd research before spending money on a Volvo; there are too many fine, reliable vehicles out there. My Volvo dealer has been outstanding and bent over backwards to help me and tocorrect the cars problems.

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  Safe but unreliable. - 2001 Volvo V70
  By sunny2 - January 26 - 10:30 am

  Bought this car new. It was a very comfortable car and drove smoothly for a couple of years. After 2 years and 13k miles, transmission problems arose. Transmission problem temporarily fixed with some software upgrades. However, at 56k miles, the car jolts between gears and it needs an entire new transmission. I have read this is a problem with this model. Volvo NA claims no responsibility and that the car is simply past warranty. The company hung up on me! Transmission failure has resulted in numerous other problems with engine mounts and suspension. This vehicle has serious mechanical problems. Beware.

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  Dont do it! - 2000 Volvo V70
  By Bashstpaul - August 16 - 3:06 am

  Save yourself the trouble. This car isnt worth it. Last year alone (2007) I had over $7,000 in repair bills on this car. Total repairs have cost me over $18,000. Electrical, ABS Module, Brakes, Tranny, etc. etc. etc. Rear hatch panel keeps coming loose. Now the rear hatch wont lock. Keep thinking theres nothing left to go wrong. This dog keeps showing me how laughable that attitude is. Cant go 3 months without a shop visit. The absolute worst car Ive ever owned.

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  Volvo 2001 V70 T5ASR - 2001 Volvo V70
  By rpd544 - June 18 - 2:00 am

  Dont buy this car! This car had an oil leak at the same spot three times during the first month of me owning it. When you first buy the car, it is fast! Its like a rocket! But after 12,000 miles, the car doesnt accelerate worth anything! The brakes needed to be replaced at 18,000 miles. The tires needed replacing at 20,000. The interior rattles like crazy. And there is a knocking sound whenever you make a left turn (which the dealership says is a "Normal Event.") The fuel pump is noisy! Buy a Toyota Sienna and youll be much happier with it!

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  Dont Buy - 1999 Volvo V70
  By KaliforniaKaren - June 17 - 1:03 am

  Bought this car because I gave my Honda Civic to daughter. Thought it would be reliable and safe. Well it turned out to be safe, as an unmoving car is pretty safe. The car frequently stalls out for no reason and the dealership hasnt been able to figure out what the problem is (after changing out numerous electrical parts and sensors). I would get another car, but I went back to school and dont have the money too. Ive dumped about $3,200 into car, wish I would have never purchased.