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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  Never ever would even think of a wagon ! - 2004 Volvo V70
  By lap8312 - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car (my first Volvo) after having a Lincoln Navigator (over- priced piece of crap), I LOVE THIS CAR !!! It is fast, comfortable and sexy for station wagon (after limo tinting the windows), I AM NO soccer Mom, even though I have 3 kids, But, when people I know pick on my choice I take them for a ride (or let them drive it) AND well, they have a different perspective. Test drive one youll love it !! The ONLY down fall my Husband is 601" and he said that it is tight for him in the drivers seat,But that it is fun to drive. Ask a Dealer to crash pictures AMAZING people walk away !!!

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  Work on it yourself!!! - 2001 Volvo V70
  By Backyard Swede Mech - July 17 - 12:03 am

  This is a good car that gets a bad rap. The tranny has a $19 fix from IPD to fix the hard into and out of 3rd shifts, and missing 3rd all together. The ETM should be replaced with one from xemodex in Canada. They have a mod that turns them into a lifetime unit. Although it is $550. Those two things will cover 90% of the complaints.

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  Great Wagon but no room for carseats - 2002 Volvo V70
  By smujmu - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Purchased this wagon with 3rd row seat. A dream to drive on a 2500 cross country trip - no driver fatigue as seats are very comfy. No repair issues to date. My one complaint as a mother of young children is the difficulty in installing a third carseat or booster. GET THE integrated booster seats. Back seat has little leg room - no a biggie for hauling kids, but seating and seatbelt spacing in middle position is narrow making it just about impossible to fit a 3rd carseat in back seat. You cannot use child restraint in 3rd seat. We did not opt for the integrated booster seats - and found they area VERY expensive to add in later.

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  Best Car We Ever Bought! - 2002 Volvo V70
  By WestHillsMom - July 9 - 2:00 am

  Since our family has expanded to 2 children we were looking for a safe family vehicle and opted for a Volvo Wagon instead of the typical SUV. Our V70 feels solid/safe, looks classy, and drives great!

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  8th volvo and last volvo, sadly. - 2001 Volvo V70
  By gav - July 6 - 7:33 am

  The cup holders are handy whilst waiting for the tow truck! Gearbox has new surprises every time you drive it. ETM is an affront to our collective dignity, electrics are poor, fuel system must have been designed at Lada by the accounts lady after a bit night on the Stolle! Maintenance costs are quite severe and plentiful. After 7 previous volvos all with outstanding reliability, function and longevity it saddens me that a company could transmogrify into producing such a failure of a vehicle. When not being repaired or diagnosed, its fast and safe with ample room and functionality, but it now drains my wallet, energy and faith in what i considered to be the best manufactured vehicles ever.

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  Money Pit! - 2001 Volvo V70
  By pdxfamily - July 4 - 3:33 am

  Purchased this wagon just before the arrival of our 3rd child. I wanted something safe and reliable. Every 6 months were at the shop with an EXPENSIVE fix. The worst problem was the throttle body (it was eventually recalled and we were reimbursed). The car surged and stalled and you never knew when you pulled out into an intersection if the car would hesitate and threaten to stall. Each time I pay for an expensive fix, I decide to just keep the darn thing. Then, of course, another huge repair 6 months later. The most recent problem, a vibration in right front area, is apparently an axle. Last one for me - my husbands toyota costs a whopping $150/year for service/maintenance. Done with Volvo!

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  2004 Volvo V70R - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Don Jones - June 28 - 10:00 am

  I say: CAR OF THE YEAR! My car keeps pace with the Boxter yet can handle a surprisingly big load. The 4C system is user friendly and the buttons are centrally located. The 6-spd manual transmission is smooth and practically guides itself into each gate. The seats are the most comfortable I have ever driven and provide ample support. Be sure to get the optional stereo upgrade: 325 watts of pure music enjoyment. I got the On-Call service, which has an integrated phone (steering wheel controls too). The dials are very cool, especially at night! The performance, innovation, safety and price are all trend-setters and superior to the competition.

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  V70R GT - 2004 Volvo V70
  By GSHEETS - June 22 - 10:00 am

  I LIKE THE V70R VERY MUCH.THE QUALITY AND FIT -FINISH SEEMS TO BE VERY GOOD.THE ONLY COMPLAINT THAT I REALLY HAVE IS THAT VOLVO ADVERTISED THE V70R AS HAVING A BETTER PROFORMANCE RECORD THAN IT SEEM TO HAVE.A CAR THAT COST IN THE MID TO HIGH 40S AND HAS A CLAIMED 300 HP SHOULD HAVE BETTER NUMBERS.

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  One tough car - 2001 Volvo V70
  By Speef - June 13 - 6:36 am

  Ive owned many Volvos, this 2001 is a T5. Its been as tough as nails. Ive repeatedly towed my 4k lbs boat, its been driven hard and it never gave up on me. Its got 135k miles on the clock and going strong.

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  far better than a minivan - 2001 Volvo V70
  By murraycat - June 11 - 10:00 am

  We replaced a GM minivan of dubious quality with this. The turbo makes it feel more like a performance sedan. Roomy back seat and lots of cargo space. The free 6 yr/100k mi Volvo Certified Used Car warranty is terrific. The dealer recently replaces some working lightbulbs with new ones, for free (apperently lightbulbs have been an issue.) We plan to drive this car til it wears out, then go back for another.