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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  Love my 2000 V70 4 Dr SE Wagon... - 2000 Volvo V70
  By Peatmoss - September 23 - 3:43 pm

  I bought this wagon 2 years ago with 126,000 miles on it. Im the 4th owner. As soon as I drove it I liked it. It did have a slight hesitation when accelerating but that turned out to be some sort of air module which was covered by a dealer recall. I got the car back and had the tie rod ends replaced, 4 new tires and an alignment and it runs like a new car... very smooth! I currently have a 177,000 miles and it still runs great! Not sure if its so reliable because it was built in Belgium (still has the Port of Entry sticker on it). I do mostly highway miles and have consistently averaged 27 - 29 mpg!! My goal is to reach 300,000+ miles!

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  tiny pieces of plastic killed the car! - 1998 Volvo V70
  By beth55423 - September 16 - 3:25 pm

  Overall, we put 80,000 miles on a used 1998 Volvo, driving about 100 miles away. There was a lot that was good and reliable about the car. But, you know those tiny plastic clips that hold all the interior trim pieces together? In six months we seemed to lose at least one a week. Inside of the back hatch fell off....trim piece above the drivers knees.... the plastic covering the switch for the power windows.... Then the gasket around the door, and the rubber strips on the roof rack... UGH.

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  Bring on the snow! - 2004 Volvo V70
  By jamm66 - September 15 - 2:00 am

  3rd Volvo, very happy so far. Interior takes a little getting used to, much different than older wagons. Stereo is wonderful, instrumentation plain but perfect, great ergonomic positioning. I have sport seats and highly recommend them, super comfortable, but arent all Volvo seats? Wagon is as versatile as ever, superb room and hauling capacity. 2.5T engine is a torque monster! Big improvement over the 2.4 in every area but fuel economy. GREAT ENGINE! The Haldex system is best in class. Effortless handling of snow and muck here in VT.

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  great when there is nothing to fix - 2000 Volvo V70
  By OHguy - September 9 - 2:00 am

  Loved the car while we had it. Bought it in Nov. of 2001 as a repo, car was pre-certified with warranty to 74,000 miles. Just got rid of the car a week ago. Had to replace the throttle body, had shifter lights fixed, fixed a leak in the oil pan, front headlight wiper needed to be fixed, replaced ball joints, pinion seals. A lot was covered by warranty, but spent 2,00+ out of pocket and needed to spend another 700+. Put a good set of Dunlops on the car and they didnt last 15,000 miles, so went back to Michelin tires and no more excessive tire wear

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  Awesome Wagon! - 2004 Volvo V70
  By jumpnup22 - September 9 - 2:00 am

  I was quite surprised with how great this automobile is! I have a Saleen mustang, so I know what some performance is! My wife wanted this car, so we traded the 2002 Toyota Land Cruiser for the V70R. I am overwhelmed with how much fun this car is to drive. It is easy to load, accelerates great, stops even better, and rides like a luxury car. All this, and it gets great gas mileage. I have a feeling this one will be in the family for quite a long time! If you can find one, BUY IT!

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2002 Volvo V70
  By rfksinfl - August 26 - 2:00 am

  Great car. I have two young children and a dog. It always makes me feel great knowing my wife and kids are safe while driving around town. Its reliability and style for a touring variant is very impressive. Not pretentious like BMW or MB but screams class. The seats are the most comfy I have ever experienced. I also love the 5 speed as it is very smooth and adds to the performance greatly. European drivers know that variants(wagons) are extremely versatile without sacraficing performance. V70 is roomy, practical, sporty, fun to drive and classy.

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  300 hp big turns - 2004 Volvo V70
  By MiamiTVR - August 22 - 9:16 am

  I have owned many Volvos. The 300 hp 6 speed is what got me into this one not to mention the fun blue leather. If the clutch had not gone out before 30K and Volvo not suggested it was my fault, had the lip of the wheels not stuck out further than the tires seeking out curbs to rub on, had the front spoiler not stuck out a couple of inches too far and one too low, had the paint and leather been Volvo-like and less prone to showing every slight rub as a permanent scar, had they made head rests and door pillars and mirrors so they could be seen around and, most importantly, had they designed it to turn in less space than a cruise ship I would have rated it higher. Pretty not Volvo tough.

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  AWESOME!! - 2005 Volvo V70
  By JHWinick - August 9 - 5:36 am

  A perfect "no compromise" compromise. For those that need the features of a station wagon, but really desire the sportiness of a two-seater - this is the ticket. High performance, high comfort and high utility. An awesome automobile.

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  So much money for THIS???? - 2000 Volvo V70
  By sunprairie - July 23 - 10:00 am

  We have friends who get a new Cross Country Wagon every 2 years and swear by them, but we got a lemon. Ours had a bad fuel pump and injection system, among other things, and it took several return visits to 3 diff. dealerships, two complete breakdowns, and finally negotiations with Volvo directly to figure out the problem, and who will pay for the repair when it was just outside of the warranty. Twice the car just stopped working while driving. It shakes at high speeds and my 1996 Honda Accord had a smoother ride. I didnt buy a $40,000 car so my family and I could be stranded twice. Servicing the car is costly even with no problems.

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  One of the best performance buys! - 2004 Volvo V70
  By SleeperWagon - July 17 - 10:00 am

  One of the best performance car buys on the market. It is also one of the best cars on the market. There are not many manual-transmission wagons on the market. Great engine, great AWD and the 6-speed is one of the best Ive ever used. The interior (Atacama) has gotten so many compliments I have long since lost count. The replacement for my 2001 Acura MDX was going to be this or the Infiniti FX35 and the decision really came down to exclusivity. While the FX is a phenomenal car, there are too many of them. I can count the number of Volvo Rs Ive seen on two hands. It also has a great sound system and an awesome adjustable suspension!