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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  Drives like a car, totes like a UTE - 2001 Volvo V70
  By polyas1st - December 31 - 4:44 pm

  Volvos are, like most European cars for people who like to drive. Despite being needlessly burdened with a 4wd system, riding 3" too high , and having 300lbs of extra weight, this car actually handles competently. I do my own work on the car so repair costs arent really an issue but if you had to have it worked on it would be pretty expensive to maintain properly. It is certainly more expensive to run than a Kia Sorento which is because it is not a Kia Sorento. I like the fact that everything is heavy duty, even the leather on the seats is surprisingly thick.

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  What more could you want? - 2001 Volvo V70
  By Richard Phillips - December 24 - 2:10 am

  This is probably the best designed car I have had. Excellent ergonomics. Reliable. Lots of thought went into this car. This car is great on the highway and on dirt roads. The car has power, hugs the road during rain, and is fun to drive. After road trips, Im ready to do things. Great seats! The interior and exterior color scheme is excellent. Good to look at and functional. No sunlight reflecting off of the dashboard. Nice leather stitching and interior combinations. Great sound system. Just a good car.

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  Kept me safe - 2005 Volvo V70
  By Francisca - December 20 - 1:43 pm

  Ive owned three Volvos. I just had an accident in my 2005 and it kept me safe! Air bags deployed and car was totaled, but I remained safe. I am now shopping around for another v70. Cant say enough about the 2004 and 2005. Attractive but solid!

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  Top marks - 2001 Volvo V70
  By jadams - December 14 - 2:00 am

  This is undoubtedly the best car Ive ever owned (including other Volvos, Audis, BMWs, etc.). It blends comfort , style, functionality, and responsiveness in just the right measure. Ive had no problem to speak of in over two years. By picking the car up in Sweden (a great deal), I was able to get a stick shift, which only enhances its sports car feel.

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  3rd Volvo wagon / the best yet - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Surf SD - November 17 - 10:13 pm

  3rd Volvo wagon and this is the best one yet. Sure Ive had a few minor issues, but the dealer quickly repaired all. Wish I had gotten the 6 spd for the full 300 hp car is rated for, but 245hp in 1st & 2nd is still adequate and it flies on the freeway. Very comfy front seats, great stock stereo, AWD safety and I avg about 22mpg around town and 25-28mpg on trips. Very Refined car, a nicer dashboard is about the only thing I would want along with a better turning radius.

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  Safe/Great in Snow, but buy ex. warranty - 2000 Volvo V70
  By Nicole - November 15 - 8:30 am

  I love my XC. I wouldnt trade it for the world, but make sure to get the extended warranty, and make sure your service techs know what theyre doing! Great in snow, handled 2 winters with all season tires like a dream. Wouldnt dream of getting rid of it. Got hit by drunk driver in it, and car was barely dented. Its like a tank!!!

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  new V70 R - 2004 Volvo V70
  By JRL - November 14 - 10:00 am

  Ive only owned it for a couple of weeks so I ant podt any long or even short term problems. Car is neat except for the seats. Thsy made the R seats with very aggresive bolsters which make it VERY uncomfortable after only a half hout of driving. Ive already taken it to an uhpolstory shop and had the seat modified. (I removed some of the bolstering.) A shame to have to cut into a 44K car

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  Great family car - 2000 Volvo V70
  By XC90_Owner - November 1 - 2:00 am

  This was our fourth Volvo. Tough car with very few mechanical problems. Comfortable on long drives or around town. The turbo makes this a great car for Colorado, where normally aspirated engines lose a lot of horsepower at altitude. Excellent in snow, with the right tires.

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  My first but not last Volvo - 2005 Volvo V70
  By Bridgewater - October 29 - 6:26 pm

  We bought this car uses with 50000km on it. There is not a squeak or rattle anywhere. There are so many hidden features that dealer didnt even know. The built in child boosters are amazing. The rain sensing wipers work perfectly. Built into the back seat, cargo nets that hook to the ceiling to keep the dog in the back. Fuel economy isnt the same as my Jetta Wagon even when Volvo says it should be but the car is much bigger so it shouldnt be expected. The bonus of AWD just adds to the cars worth. I would buy another without a second thought.

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  volvo 2001 - 2001 Volvo V70
  By alex - October 28 - 4:10 pm

  I bought a Volvo when my wife told me she was pregnant for a 3 rd time, 3 kids I tough Volvo would deliver. Transmission problem than the heater radiator broke got it change now it stinks like hell when I put the heat on and it leaks oil too bad because it is comfortable and nice but I dont know if Im going to keep it now I have a message that says check brake lights I look at them and they dont work so I change the bulbs and still dont work what should I do?