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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  Darn near perfect - 2003 Volvo V70
  By MotoMan - December 22 - 12:06 pm

  This is almost the perfect vehicle. One or two small quality issues, but hard to top 30 mpg and luxury to boot. Handles well, leather heated seats are great, volumes of hauling capacity and very slick looking ride.

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  good car - 2001 Volvo V70
  By john - December 10 - 8:13 am

  Bought used in Sept 2008 with 27000 miles, now is 37000. I change the oil and maintain myself. Fairly easy to work on, best to have code reader, but have not needed yet. Light bulbs here and there needing replacement, pretty easy to do. Japanese Aisen Warner transmission requires special mobil synthetic oil and dipstick should be checked regularly, it is in an awkward location, way low on drivers side. Only use Full synthetic oils, including brake fluid. If you do I would expect 200000 miles of good value, as our 25 year old volvo 240s. We love this car. Have not added any as trans. fluid is pink. Very good highway car.

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  T5 - 2001 Volvo V70
  By volvo lover - November 14 - 10:00 am

  Love this wagon . Had 850T5 love that one . no one can do a wagon like VOLVO.

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  My Sports Car Replacement - 2006 Volvo V70
  By V70 R AWD - November 13 - 10:40 am

  We are pleasantly surprised. We had to find a family vehicle to replace the not so family friendly 03 Porsche 911. My new replacement vehicle is a wolf is sheep’s clothing: fun, fast with room for our new addition (our daughter) and the family dog. I was not expecting the performance that is provided in this car from a Volvo, not to mention a wagon. As it stands now, I don’t even miss my beloved Porsche. Interior is well laid out and all functions are easy to operate. As for fuel mileage, average 26.1 mpg; this is higher than the 25 mpg advertised in every review I’ve read thus far. Love it!

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  Our Best Car Ever! - 1998 Volvo V70
  By BKM - November 12 - 10:00 am

  My family purchased a used 1998 V70 XC Wagon and we have absolutely no complaints. The ride is phenominal, especially in snow. Aside from oil changes, we have yet to visit the repair shop. This is our second Volvo wagon (last one was a 94 850). If youre looking for a versatile, powerful, sporty vehicle, youll like the V70 XC.

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  Best vehicle so far (since 66) - 2003 Volvo V70
  By Chris C. - November 3 - 3:06 am

  The traction control and STC make this 4000 pd wagon more fun to drive than my previous 01 VW Golf . It feels so solid on the road .. I actually enjoy driving it very sedately and smoothly. Its computer gives me all the info I need..mpg,etc. And the trunk is HUGE! with 3rd row and BUILT IN BOOSTERS in 2nd row too..in LEATHER! Beats any minivan out there on LOOKS and MILEAGE.THE KING (or Queen..)

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  Enjoy driving - 1999 Volvo V70
  By wellspring - October 25 - 10:00 am

  Bought this V 70 GLT with 42,000 miles on it. Needed upper engine mount replaced, turbo oil seal, front cup holder, sun roof switch bulb all warranty items. Very good handling, acceleration. Roomy and excellent quality throughout. My experience is that most folks trash their cars except for the very basics. For example the previous owners changed the oil every 7,000 miles (Volvo recommendation). Unacceptable, no more than 4,000 at the most between oil changes. Condition the leather, brush out the seams regularly, keep it protected from the sun, and the leather seats will last.

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  Agree with "volvodriver" - 2000 Volvo V70
  By Spoiled Mom - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Same problem as "volvodriver" The clunking is REAL. Dealer cant duplicate it either. Headrest is too forward especially when my hear is tied back. Engine noise loud, especially when ACs on. Bought car for safety/reliablity, so far has lived up to expectations. Saved my life and two girls when I couldnt avoid running over tire tread at 80mph. With an 18 wheeler on my side I had no where to go but over it. Great breaking slowed us down quickly and car handled perfect leaving tire in the dust. Very scary! Wont drive anything else. But I have been eyeballing the XC90.

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  AWDs At Its Best - 2003 Volvo V70
  By jcontardo - October 13 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is SOLID. It feels substantial to drive and exudes safety. The doors have the definative THUD when closing and we feel secure even in the heaviest weather. Our 97 850T5 may have had more HP but this wagon has enough turbo to shock most soccer moms at the red lights. We got a great deal from Portland (ME) Volvo and havent had one problem with it after 4500 miles. Great Vehicle!

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  great car - 2004 Volvo V70
  By basil - October 13 - 10:00 am

  i drove this car daily to work and use it to haul our dogs and house and yard needs and purchased. we have never had problem. recently another driver hit our car from the front and did quite a bit of damage. no one was hurt and we hardly felt the crash. the only change i would make to this car is to make the shoulder belt adjustable. for shorter people the belt hits right up against the neck.