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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  A Well Maintained Vehicle - 1998 Volvo V70
  By longislanddriver - October 14 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Volvo. My experience is that the V70 is more reliable that my 1989 245. I always buy a base model for price and more importantly to eliminate problems. The AC compressor and condensor was replaced the first week. I guessed Volvo probably put the wrong refrigerant in it. I used to replace the headlight bulbs but after recall never replace a build yet. Replaced air pump and recently blower fan. A good dealer is the key. I had serveral brake and noise problems but convinced dealer to kept car for a week. They replace rotors, oil pump and pan.

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  re review - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Jim L - October 14 - 2:00 am

  I posted above in a different name and have found that I really LOVE this wagon more and more every day. Yes, I did have to do a slight mod on the seat for my back and the headlights (high beams) are still poor but overall this wagon is a blast to drive and has been 100% reliable now with nearly 5K on it. Wonderful cruiser, I make excuses to drive it, and am driving it much faster than I should be as at speed, its just wonderful.(and very usful in all catagories) Jim

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  Never ever again My friends too - 1998 Volvo V70
  By DaveM - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Got this v70glt for my wife new. From the start it was a nightmare. I cant tell you how many times its been in the shop. But I know all the service managers by their first names. It is getting worse over time. Im out at 75K with thousands spent in repairs. Run dont walk.

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  Fun to drive and super versatile - 2001 Volvo V70
  By jbberge - September 24 - 6:16 pm

  I have driven this car in snow, rain, ice, and the deserts of AZ and nothing has slowed it down. I even drove it up a running river (not very deep) on a camping trip once. It holds my mtn bike if I fold the seats down, and Ive slept in it a few times too. Yeah, its a bit expensive to service and I think its a little funny looking but I couldnt be much happier with a wagon! Just be sure to stay up on your maintenance because its way cheaper than repairing something once it breaks.

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  I love my VOLVO! - 2002 Volvo V70
  By KxVx - September 9 - 1:36 am

  I purchased my Volvo because I was familiar with the reliably of the brand, as my first car was a 240 DL. Ive been very happy with it, and it gets great gas mileage for a car with such get-up-and-go.

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  Great Choice for the family - 2001 Volvo V70
  By humantorch - August 29 - 6:23 am

  I had heard a lot about Volvos but never driven one. We saw this V7-T5 today in the lot and knew that second..this is the car we need. We test drove ...it was great...the leather, gps, sunroof...the works. The car feels quality..inside/out..and when we got the Carfax report...and it says..the car was imported directly from Sweden..that sold us... Great buy...we traded my 2001 Intrepid...with 140k miles..

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  Great Family Hauler 4 the Sports Car Dad - 1998 Volvo V70
  By mikefn - August 26 - 10:00 am

  Great alternative to the mini van, especially for those who want sports car performance.

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  Unhappy Volvo V70 - 2006 Volvo V70
  By JMK - August 26 - 1:23 am

  An ok car. Minor rattle from dash vent, should not be in a car costing over 40K. Also lacks some comfort features and storage spaces. Rear leg room is poor. If you buy this car be prepared to give up some nifty stuff .

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  great family car - 1998 Volvo V70
  By td90 - August 19 - 2:00 am

  We bought the v70 GLT used several months ago with 55k miles, and are very pleased with the car. Very solid construction, no rattles or squeeks. Good acceleration, crisp handling, and great brakes. With routine maintenance, should be good for 200K+ miles, just like the 740 we had.

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  Quick for a brick - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Marcel van Dijk - August 11 - 8:50 pm

  This is the best car that I ever owned. It has the room for a family to visit the inlaws, but when you are alone, "it is a blast". 150 Mph and it is nailed to the ground. Love it! I have the Geartonic, next time it will be a manual.