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:

• 

  critical driver - 2001 Volvo V70
  By xc driver in Colo - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car for 16 months and 25K miles. Absolutely NO mechanical problems at all. I had some flasher light and remote entry problems due to bad parts, both fixed. Wonderful to drive, dealer has been incredible.

• 

  Ultimate Sleeper Car - 2004 Volvo V70
  By SPARTACUS369 - July 25 - 10:00 am

  I have to say this is the most fun to drive wagon! The best part of the car (and there are many) is the sleeper effect it has over other sports cars. Unless the sports car driver beside you knows cars, you can usually get the look of shock from said driver when they get left standing at the lights by a "family" wagon.

• 

  Versatile Family Wagon - 2001 Volvo V70
  By XC Family - July 12 - 2:06 pm

  If you want to drive a car/wagon without feeling tons of weight and moving a hefty-size SUV, this is the crossover that you need. Ive definitely found myself in love with this XC wagon, not just me but my entire family. Its such a versatile everyday car. Also come in handy moving stuff and going for long trips. Plus the Volvos legendary safety features loaded in this car. The only thing I would do differently is to buy this car earlier. Gas mileage is quite good in its class, I get around 22 to 24 for mostly sub-urban city driving.

• 

  02 2.4 ASR in WDC - 2002 Volvo V70
  By KKC&JLC - July 8 - 3:30 am

  Wifes car - has 25K miles. Bought new in early 03 before baby arrived (needed safer vehicle w/more cargo space); got great deal w/yr end clearance - chose over preowned 01 V70 for same price, 13K miles, & less options. Premium & Touring packages - Leather, sunroof, 16"alloys, 3rd seat, laminated glass . . . great car overall. Looks like the NHTSA finally crash tested the V70 for frontal and side impacts - 5 stars all the way around! Only problem thus far has been a burned out power lock motor in rear door (under warranty) and a burned out headlight (replaced myself). Will look at an XC90 next for more space . . . but will wait until the bugs are worked out from the first few yr

• 

  Best Volvo So Far - 2000 Volvo V70
  By volvofanatic - June 29 - 2:00 am

  This is my 5th Volvo Wagon and it is by far the best I have ever owned. This one is a keeper. Great versatility and aggressive looks make this vehicle capable of getting second looks.

• 

  Family Transportation - 1998 Volvo V70
  By 19north - June 21 - 10:00 am

  The best family transportation you can get: safe, economical, and sporty. Great resale value and excellent reliability too.

• 

  great car! - 2002 Volvo V70
  By Jiajing - June 16 - 10:00 am

  I bought my V70 2.4T 2 weeks ago. I have enjoyed every aspect of it. It is so easy to drive. You just need a very light tap to make it stop and go. Very comfortable.

• 

  Good car for Volvo savvy enthusiast - 1998 Volvo V70
  By VolvoRottie - May 24 - 11:50 am

  Purchased at repo auction and obtained service recs from selling dealer. In time owned, did upgrade to ceramic brake pads and top of the line rotors at minimum cost as a DIY job (Im a woman!). ABS module out per usual paid $150 to get it fixed - now perfect. Oil changes using Mobil 1 and mann filters. Thats it. Now finally a tune up for less than $100 in parts again DIY. This car rocks. Mine is loaded and other than very routine maintenance, knock on wood, its been good. This year must recharge the Freon.

• 

  luv it - 1998 Volvo V70
  By precisionmike - May 21 - 4:16 pm

  bought it brand new, and until about an hour ago it was the best car ever. just hit a deer head on and the car will probably be totaled due to cosmetic damage. 165k and it runs smooth as glass. serviced every 5k and doesnt burn a drop of oil and we get 27 to 28 mpg on the highway. not one rust spot on it and we live in new york, the winter salt belt. the R engine is a kick in the pants, weve surprised many a driver with the power and performance. AWD never let us down in snow and ice. some issues with AC and the CD player... other than that normal wear and tear... i will buy another one.

• 

  Just Bought One! - 2007 Volvo V70
  By Dave - LA - April 21 - 6:33 am

  I have been wanting to purchase a V70 or XC70 for a few years. I swapped my Toyota 4Runner due to gas mileage for the V70. The Volvo drives and sounds a lot like my Honda Accord that I had 12 years ago! I love that Honda and I love the way this car drives. I will be using the car for surfing, so I opted for the optional roof racks which do produce some wind noise. The biggest suprise is the performance. I have owned 3 porsches and I currently own a 911. I must say the Volvos pick up is excellent, and I can really feel the turbos kick. I am very pleased with the car so far, and I hope to keep it for at least 8-10 years!