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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  Better Than Average - 2001 Volvo V70
  By TEF - September 24 - 10:00 am

  Special ordered thru Diplomat Sales program with 5-Spd MANUAL transmission and cloth interior. Over the last 10 years, Ive replaced only brake pads/rotors, timing belt and one emission component. Obviously having a manual transmission, spared me the universal problems associated with auto transmissions, but the car has been very dependable by any measure. Other than brakes and rotors that I replaced myself, total repairs by dealers and/or privite shops since 2001 total less than $1,000.

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  ive loved all 4 of my volvos - 1998 Volvo V70
  By bob - September 22 - 4:16 am

  ive owned 2 245 wagons, this XC, and my wife drives a XC90. need i say more----and id buy another. with this 98 XC, my wife was stopped at a light on the saw mill pkwy outside of nyc---2 passengers....rear-ended by a buick that didnt stop---hit her going 45 mph----not a scratch on the three volvo occupants---totaled the buick----we repaired the XC and still runs superbly. with a set of Thule roofracks/adapters--this vehicle almost becomes a small truck. AWD---we live in the hills of new england---not a problem with the volvo. repairs---the usual--lets say if you keep up with preventive maintenance---you wont be stranded or surprised by a huge repair bill. love my volvo wagons.

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  Some problems, but still feel safe - 2000 Volvo V70
  By firstimevolvoowner - September 15 - 10:00 am

  Car had some initial problems with ignition system, and has had to have a number of minor nuisance type repairs. With 52,000 miles, Ive already replaced the brake pads twice, had the rotors machined at 36,000 miles and then replaced at 52,000. Handles well, and is very quiet and comfortable. Gas mileage is good at +/- 24 combined. Just wish I could get 75,000 trouble free miles like the 4 Toyotas I owned before this car.

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  Love my 99 V70R AWD Wagon - 1999 Volvo V70
  By Casey Milroy - September 9 - 11:08 pm

  Great off the line acceleration and goes well on the road when the tranny downshifts and Turbo kicks in. Granted, a car this old will have some Turbo Lag for sure, but a 1983 Porsche 911 Turbo also spools up a bit slowly. Mileage isnt outstanding around town or highway compared to new cars. Thing is, its comfortable and can haul your stuff. I love this low roofed 2 box design. The different front Fascia w/ fog lights, wheels, rear air deflector etc make it the best looking Volvo wagon. I added the factory twin or dual exhaust which the 1999 didnt come with. I tinted the windows, dark in the back, legal on front windows. I also added IPD super headlights, which work better and look real cool. The mids, tweets and subs add up to the best, most balanced stereo Ive had. Some things arent ideal...costs a lot to service...I was spending $1000/yr average for service when driving a lot. Now Im retired. Mine is different than some Ive ridden in...it is quiet w/o creaks, groans and rattles (which drive me crazy). The interior is in good shape w/o tears etc. The defroster could work better. Uses about a quart (one of 6 quarts/oil change) every 3000 miles which is more than acceptable. I have used full synthetic oil since I bought it 50,000 miles ago, changing it every 3-5000 miles. I dont want to change my car. Not to mention, as a Volvo Wagon...its invisible to the general population. I have no children and am divorced, Ive just always found the boxy design to be functional.

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  What A Great Car - 1998 Volvo V70
  By tostik - September 9 - 5:07 am

  Found a 1998 v70xc last year (2010) at a used car dealership with a 104,000 miles on it. The dealer had all the maintenance records, which showed a trip to the dealership every 5,000 miles. The interior and exterior looked brand new--the back seat looked like it had never been ridden in. Obviously garaged and pampered by the prior owner. I had to fix a broken motor mount, and the rear hatch struts were weak, which I replaced. About $450 for both. It now has a 121,000 miles on it and has been trouble-free. My independent Volvo mechanic is jealous. He says the 1998 and earlier volvos are tougher than the current ones. Finding a good independent volvo mechanic will save you lots of money.

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  Nicest of the 12 cars Ive owned - 1999 Volvo V70
  By slvrspcshp - August 22 - 1:15 pm

  My previous car was a 1988 740 GLE. I put 365,000 miles on that, sold it for 700.00, and it is STILL someones daily driver. The V70 has 186,000 on it, and Ive been driving it for 4 years. In that time the only thing Ive had to do that wouldnt be considered REGULAR USED CAR UPKEEP is have the throttle body assembly replaced (fully under warranty). Ive replaced the plugs, changed the oil regularly, replaced one tie rod, had the brakes done once and fixed one of the fog lights.(NYC driver POTHOLES) I also bought a kit for 13 bucks to secure the inside panel of the tailgate. I love this car, and plan on getting a 2006/2007 model in a couple years, prob my last before having to go electric

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  never a volvo again - 1999 Volvo V70
  By perkins - August 21 - 4:20 am

  I bought a volvo for the first time in 99. based on reputation for safety and reliability. Although it is a very usable cargo space and comfortable ride and excellent visibility, it has been a repair nightmare. I began having very poor a/c problems finally had to replace it under warranty, and the repairs on electrical issues, interior body hardware, (shift light, window controls, seat controls on driver side, wagon hatchback door)after the warranty expired have been very costly and dont last long. I have spent way too much money on repairs, hoping to hold onto the car for at least ten years, and its been six and Im giving up d/t repairs.Reg. maintenance made no difference. Sad story.

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  Every days pleasure - 2004 Volvo V70
  By e.wilke - August 8 - 2:00 am

  My volvo 2.4 t makes it a pleasure every day I drive to my work.

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  2005 V70R is junk!!! - 2005 Volvo V70
  By mike_c70 - August 7 - 8:23 pm

  I picked up this 05 V70R after lemoning my 2004 S60R. Upon delivery of the vehicle, within 1/2 mile leaving the dealership, the car made this awful clunking and squeaking noise in the front suspension. I drove back to the dealer and they inspected it. They said that one of the springs in the front suspension came out of its seat. Furthermore, headlights were pointed straight down making them useless for night driving. Went back the next day to get the headlights re-aimed, said it was done. Guess what? Still pointing straight down. Furthermore, the clunking and squeaking in the front suspension came back. The car has been to the service dept in 2 of the 3 days of ownership. Do not buy a Volvo

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  Comfort Mobile - 2000 Volvo V70
  By Nel - July 31 - 10:00 am

  The only car I have ever driven that makes my back feel better instead of worse. Just love it.