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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  Great family cruiser - 2006 Volvo V70
  By capemaymatt - December 5 - 8:43 pm

  We bought our red stick shift V70 last summer, and are very pleased with it. If you want a 7 passenger vehicle (we got the rear rumble seat) without having to drive a huge SUV or minivan, this is it. Its not tremendously sporty, but has adequate pickup and corners well. Its also very comfortable for long drives. Service and parts are very expensive.

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  Great multi-purpose machine - 2002 Volvo V70
  By galet - December 2 - 2:00 am

  A great looking, sporty, responsive wagon. Lots of head and leg room with space for the grandkids and all their "things".

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  The Bad Reviews are all TRUE! - 2000 Volvo V70
  By Joe - November 24 - 2:06 am

  Bought this car in January 2009 with just over 100K on it. After disregarding Consumer Reports and many horror stories on this site, I am paying the price now. In just two months, over $2000 put into it, and the check engine light came on couple of days ago, with codes for an oxygen sensor and catalytic converter. The interior is cheap and noisy, crazy squeaks and rattles. Alternator died, leaving me stranded on the highway. $700 to fix. Vibration in the engine, drivetrain issue the mechanic says. Stay away from the 98-00 XC, great look and feel, but 90% chance it will cost you a boatload to keep running. I was hoping to be that 1 out of 10, but no such luck.

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  Worth every penny - 1998 Volvo V70
  By AlexS - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Worth every penny I paid for it. As for lowered rating for reliability (9), its due to the window that got stuck and was replaced (for free - it was still under warranty) with the motor, guides, and everything that goes with it. No other problem whatsoever.

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  Transmission Issues - 2001 Volvo V70
  By Tracy - October 30 - 7:43 pm

  Overall experience has been very good until recently when the RPM would race to peak levels while driving. Initial repair shop found nothing wrong. Towed car to dealer and they advised the transmission needed replacement to the tune of $3,800. I would expect this from a lower end vehicle, but not from a Volvo.

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  What Happened to Volvo quality? - 2001 Volvo V70
  By theodora Watts - October 18 - 9:16 am

  4th Volvo, nothing but problems with major systems on this one. Exorbitant repair costs. They want to replace catalytic converter, A/C, transmission, seat belt, clogged filter to the tune of $10,000. My Ford Taurus lasted much longer for 1/3 the purchase price. Last Volvo for me.

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  Volvo V70 -- the "alternative" SUV - 2005 Volvo V70
  By Tony - October 9 - 7:16 am

  This is my second V70. The first was a V70XC (Cross Country). The V70R, also an AWD vehicle, offers the best of all worlds. First it handles better than a car with its adjustable, computer- controlled chassis. It gets great gas mileage -- imagine a 5-cylinder engine (cheap to drive) that will crank out 300 horses when you want to have fun. Finally imagine the traction and versatility of an SUV in a luxury car that is loaded with safety features. As long as Volvo remains Volvo and doesnt morph into a Ford Country Squire, Ill be behind the wheel of a V70 indefinitely. Did I mention 300hp on an AWD wagon?

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  Car has grown on me - 2000 Volvo V70
  By dadinkc - September 29 - 7:13 pm

  After my wife got a new car, after much deliberation, I decided to sell my 5-series BMW and take her hand-me-down 2000 Volvo wagon. At the time, the decision was driven a practical one - less expensive to own and maintain, more room for a family of 4 and performance in the snow. 2 years later, I couldnt be happier with the decision. It has been reliable and everything I need in a vehicle with the exception of looking cool. Fortunately, Im way past worrying about looking cool.

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  I love driving my wagon - 1998 Volvo V70
  By Pastsportscardriver - September 25 - 10:00 am

  I usually buy new car every 4-5 years, but I cant this time. I love my Volvo, and it is a wagon! The seats are comfortable to sit in (mine are leather, the car responds to my every command. All the controls are in the right place. The seat belt adjusts to fit my female 54" body (most dont). The cargo space is unbelievable large. I bought a new 35" TV, TV stand and VCR and all fit comfortably, still in their boxes in the cargo area without removing my child seat. The back seat folds down to offer even more room. This car is a keeper.

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  Buy extended warantee - 2001 Volvo V70
  By esw62 - September 22 - 10:00 am

  This car has been a severe dissapointment. I know most people write bad reviews so take this for what it is worth. We have had numerous problems with this car. Gremlin electrical problems, electrical motors in windows, trunk and door locks, I have replace at least 6 signal lights and head lamps twice. Sway bar bushing replaced, $275. Emission system is showing error codes and is soon to need work. Replaced temp stat and temp control. Engine is looking like it may need some major work.