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:

• 

  Great experience with 2000 V70 XC - 2000 Volvo V70
  By Banjo - December 12 - 6:13 am

  Few things to mention. Owned it for 24 months, found that a 10 year old Volvo is like a 3 year old domestic. When I buy used I take the following precautions: 1. replaced the oil every 3 months, regardless; air filter every year. 2. always replace the thermostat, battery, and change your antifreeze 3. drive it like its age. this turbo can toss your head back but it is aging. so why f&k with the tranny and engine, capisce? 4. keep her clean, wash it. 5. check engine and other lights are overrated, look into the real problem using a european mechanic. Domestic tech kids should remain in their toyRus sandbox. Volvos and Subarus are easy to fix but use a professional. 6. Read the manual. Ciao

• 

  An all around great ride - 1999 Volvo V70
  By v70owner - November 23 - 2:00 am

  We had some minor problems with the headlights and some other things, all of which were covered under the warrantee. Just routine maintenance otherwise. The wagon is great for long trips and the safety features work great -- if you happen to get rear-ended.

• 

  Volvo XC70 - 2006 Volvo V70
  By Dale Cohen - November 19 - 8:20 pm

  Great car, lots of seating room and ample cargo space. Fun to drive. Its like having a station wagon and SUV in one!

• 

  Im happy with it. - 2005 Volvo V70
  By Skredberry - November 11 - 8:06 am

  First volvo for our family. After EXTENSIVE searching , we landed on the Volvo v70 non-turbo, specifically for gas mileage and not having to use 93 octane. I can get about 400 miles to a tank, so on top of great mileage, I go long time between fill ups. We bought after having a baby and the stadium seating is great for a car seat to see out the window. My husband is 6 and has some difficulty getting comfortable in the drivers position (the s40 we had for a loaner was roomier, he said). Ive been very comfortable driving it and it has nice pickup. I didnt give a 10 for performance because after going from a VWGolf this is not as easy to handle. Good car for antiSUV ppl.

• 

  This Car Rocks - 2004 Volvo V70
  By KevinLeungPhD - November 7 - 10:00 am

  The V70 T5 excel in every automotive arena. The 247-hp Turbo is a beast on the highway- beating many, many, many cars. Adding the GearTronic will result the winning combination of performance, fun and automotive enjoyment. Fuel economy is excellent- averaging only at 10.5L/100km. Build quality, safety and reliabiliy is undoubtly excellent. The seats are the best you can ever find in the universe. Versatile and agile, the V70 is the Einstein of scientists and the Kristanna Loken of actresses.

• 

  Very Good Til the Expensive End - 1998 Volvo V70
  By Sandy - October 31 - 5:30 am

  My beloved 98 Volvo V70 XC AWD , purchased at 170K miles, made it to 230K without ever breaking down and stranding me. It always started. The ride? Silky smooth. Visibility? Great. Room? Plenty for passengers and 2 big dogs. Safety? Top rated. The heated seats? Ahh! The maintenance was average cost at Mavis, very expensive at the dealer, though. If you can put in your own light bulbs, youre fine. However, the fuel pump died and they want $1,900 to $1,300 to fix it. I now realize that this car, new or used, is better purchased by wealthier individuals. If I could buy new, I would certainly do so.

• 

  The Real Deal Rocket - 2006 Volvo V70
  By drcjj - October 29 - 12:30 pm

  Wow, Ive had this car for 5 mos. and over 8K miles and its only been in the shop for the 7.5k service, tire balance and a headlight aiming (set way too low for mountain driving). My previous car was a Porsche Cayenne S, always in the shop for visits, now Im free to just drive, YAAY! My friends were curious why, well its way faster, better gas mileage, equal brakes (Brembo) and the controls for HVAC and audio actually make sense at a glance. As for driving, Ive enjoyed the glaring looks from hot rod sounding mustangs etc. I stay with them as they grind and wail along attempting to show off a bit. My V70R just makes this humming sound, not very impressive I guess. I Love it!

• 

  Carls Review - 2007 Volvo V70
  By Carl Moore Houston - October 21 - 2:36 am

  I bought a 2007 V70 closeout which came with lots of options as a replacement for my wifes 940 which was totaled in a wreck -- great deal . The car is very comfortable driving and handling. The 2.5T has excellent pickup compared with the older B230F engine. Gas mileage is good -- approx 22 mpg around town.

• 

  Overall happy - 1998 Volvo V70
  By les - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Bought with 55K miles. 2nd Volvo, replacing a 240 wagon. Much improved over 240, but like the 240, suffers from little things breaking.... rear windshield washer motor, electric driver door lock doesnt work from remote. Also, compared to 240 and all our other cars, its a very difficult car for a do it yourselfer to work on due to special tools that are required.

• 

  First Volvo is a Winner! - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Gr8pilot - October 19 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Volvo and shares garage space with a Corvette. Both a great fun to drive, very responsive look great and are very comfortable but the Volvo will carry the groceries, kids, dog and still perform like a champ. Not as good on gas as I expected but the trade off for safety and performance is worth it to me.