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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  V70 T5 Stick - 2001 Volvo V70
  By mercury_62 - February 6 - 10:00 am

  We love this Car, Got all the options! it out handles most sedans and out excelarates most sports cars!

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  The Best Volvo Car - 2000 Volvo V70
  By diemrtei[ - February 1 - 10:00 am

  The best Volvo car with fantastic value.

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  V70 T5 - 1998 Volvo V70
  By 70rsz28 - February 1 - 10:00 am

  This car is a sleeper.. very fast and handles very well. I just accumulates milage too fast!

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  I prefer my 240 - 2001 Volvo V70
  By tkschaff - January 17 - 1:06 pm

  Weve been a Volvo family for several years, and when we saw the new body style, we knew we had to have one. Its a beautiful car, but the reliability of the newer Volvos leaves a lot to be desired. Weve had transmission problems from almost day one. Its a certified car, so that was our only saving grace. We had to have several software upgrades for the transmission, and the last time it was in, I was told that if this didnt "fix" the problem, I would be the proud owner of a new transmission on a vehicle with 65,000 miles on it. My independent mechanic told me to avoid all Volvos newer than 99 until they work out the bugs. Ill stick with my 240.

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  great features, poor reliability - 2000 Volvo V70
  By azxcr Paul - January 9 - 10:00 am

  Well, we are happy with the design and capacity, but it has been a major mechanical headache! Look closely at Volvos used car reputation before you buy one and definitely get all the maintenance records. We have had engine problems (two pcv valves, gasket oil leak, numerous errorneous check engine lites), disc brake replacement (rear), electric lock issues (master actuator replaced 2x), steering noises (lube, lube, lube), and 2 minor recalls. After much complaining, Volvo offered to take the vehicle back off lease IF we bought another NEW Volvo at dealer cost. No way!

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  Uneven Likeability - 2001 Volvo V70
  By sbe79 - January 7 - 9:20 am

  I have V70 T5 model. It has 147K on it. I have to say that I really, really like the car. I just dont enjoy the difficulties that come along with it. It drives, mostly, great. I like the way it handles. It may be a station wagon, but its still an interesting car. The leather interior is miles better than Volvo was using in the 90s. However, the transmission had to be rebuilt before I even got it off the used dealership lot. One year later, it struggles to go from 1st to 2nd gear in the morning. The drivers side control panel on the door works infrequently (so most of the time, my window wont go down and I cant lock the doors remotely). Mechanic cant find the issue.

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  The way it should be. - 2000 Volvo V70
  By socajh - December 26 - 10:00 am

  One professional review states that the V70 feels like its carved out of a solid block of iron. Good, but a solid block of silk is what comes to mind, not iron. This is as true as ever after two years of driving it. Comfort, ride quality, road manners, reliability, and sedan-like convenience are all tens. Performance and handling are everything they need to be, no more, no less. And the brakes are simply astounding.

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  My 4th Volvo in my stable - 2004 Volvo V70
  By nordic - December 21 - 2:00 am

  Volvo continues to deliver me a quality product. I prefer Volvos wagons but also own a C70 HT. My preference is Overseas Delivery, an area where Volvo of Lisle also excells compared with other Chicago dealers I have spoken to. AWD is a blessing in Chicagos snowy 2003 winter and I insist my wife drives the V70 AWD when driving long distance this winter. Her C70 lacks AWD. Low maintenance costs, quiet ride, comfort, roominess and, of course, safety, is why I will stay with Volvo ans why my children also drive Volvo.

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  One of the best! - 2006 Volvo V70
  By Phil Corray - December 14 - 6:26 am

  Easily one of the best cars I have ever driven! I am an enthusiast who has owned and driven everything. If youre to buy this car, youre getting $65,000 of quality for 40. If youre the kind of person who likes to have something that is all about quality and also shows complete thoughtfulness without wanting to impress anyone but yourself, this is the car for you. Its a car that can easily be put on a track and later cart your wife, kids and the dog home as well.

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  bye Volvo - 1998 Volvo V70
  By little_blaine - December 10 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car new in 1998 for almost $40000 including a third row seat, taxes etc. Im about to trade it in for $5000 (if Im lucky). The repairs that this car has needed are incredible - leaks from everywhere, shot turbocharger, A/C, broker power locks, busted ABS, "Check Engine" light on constantly, failed inspection multiple times, burns lights, brakes and tires very quickly. The car is luxurious and rides well, and handles excellently in bad weather. However, given all the problems, I would never buy a volvo again.