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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  LIKE MY V70 204 - 2005 Volvo V70
  By dan - April 14 - 5:23 pm

  My V70 is actually a nonturbo automatic. My mileage is 30 highyway and 20 city. This is an excellent car. When you first start it up, it revs to 2,000 rpm and within a few seconds drops to around 700 +/-. Dealer said should be that way. Had a 98 V70 XC before and only had minor stuff. I traded down this time to V70 becasue of price and looks. Bought it for safety, best seats in the market place, heated seats,dual air controls, and highly rated reliabiltiy in consumer reports. Holds the road nicely. BTW, my wife has hit in the back by a big pick up. Smased truck front and radiator, it had to be towed. No injury to my wife, drove it home. No glass breakage, bumpers & shock system did job.

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  Why buy an SUV? - 2002 Volvo V70
  By kiddie car pool dad - April 14 - 1:43 pm

  Had to get a 7-seat vehicle for the school car pool, but wife hasnt yet figured out that I didnt get a T5 just for the nice seats. Bought used with 50K miles two weeks ago. This car has great power, but dont punch the accellerator unless you really mean it. Has every safety feature available on any new car and a superb stereo. The gas tank is ridiculously big; driven from Memphis to DC (around 850 miles) on less than two tanks of gas. Lots of thoughtful features on mine: integrated second row child boosters; built-in second row tray table with cup holders; built-in cargo compartment divider; clever rear-facing third row seats that my kids adore; electronic child-proof door locks.

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  I love this car - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Eric Nelson - April 5 - 10:00 am

  If you can only have a single car, this is the best one to get. The only significant fault is the large turning radius, which you can learn to deal with.It is just as fast as the 540 and S6, but with the following advantages: vs 540 wagon: 540 has no manual tranny, and the V70R has a nicer/larger interior. The 540 is also miserable in the snow due to rear wheel drive, and is 20K more. vs Audi S6: no manual, smaller interior, 20K more, lousy stereo, lousy crash tests, lousy dealers/service.

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  It does have some issues, but not bad - 2001 Volvo V70
  By Oklahoma - March 16 - 2:40 pm

  This car is very pleasant to drive, people compliment its looks all the time, and I feel safe in it. There have been annoying minor problems but the dealers have been gracious about replacements of parts w/warranty. Minor light bulbs, the mechanical cupholder, and the fuel door have all had to be replaced. Im careful about maintenance, Mobil 1 every 4000 miles. It has hauled furniture and teenagers with room to spare, and is excellent for long road trips.

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  Well pleased - 2008 Volvo V70
  By Mike - March 1 - 1:20 am

  This car is what you would expect from Volvo. Understated performance, design with good handling. This is my second Volvo wagon, previous 240. I love the wagon for the car ride with the hauling of a suv. Pleased with fuel economy. I commute 70 miles round trip daily on interstates and average 26 mpg.

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  Great used car. - 2000 Volvo V70
  By cat5fred - February 20 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car used with 113k miles in 2006. Soon after purchasing the check engine light came up, we had it fixed ($700) and ran without problems for about 3 years. In the meantime, we went places, off-road, from TN to FL, etc. Very reliable car, seats are the best in the industry. Cargo space adequate. Even today (10/16/2010) it provides a very smooth ride. The service light is back on, but the codes returned are safe to ignore (fuel condenser system, est. repair cost 2k). Great, dependable car, electrical system, specially the A/C, warning lights could have been designed better.

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  Great Alternative to Oversized SUV - 1999 Volvo V70
  By newVolvoLVR - February 12 - 12:43 am

  Great alternative to Hefty SUV, this car provides reasoning to buying a car for hauling purposes. Design is classic. If you are in the market for safety, look no further. A wonderful starter car if you have never owned a Volvo. Volvo for life.

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  The Truth about the 2001 Volvo V70XC! - 2001 Volvo V70
  By brent g - February 5 - 1:36 am

  I bought this car in 2003 and the transmission was replaced under warranty. I was told by a tech that all the 2001s had a software problem that if it wasnt fixed in time would cause permanent damage. Over the history of this car the throttlebody, radiator & fan, sensors and mounts were all replaced under warranty. Make sure these repairs are done or that you have a warranty! I currently have 120k miles on the car and running well. I was recently hit (drvrs frnt) by a teen boy who ran a red light but slowed to about 20mph. My wife and 3 kids were in the car. The damage to the car was literally unidentifiable except for a slight hood adj that was made in a few minutes. What more can I say.

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  Excellent Car - 2004 Volvo V70
  By KTTK - January 30 - 10:00 am

  I have >8K miles on it and we love the car.

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  Fourth Turbo Volvo - 2005 Volvo V70
  By Sleeper - January 5 - 8:26 pm

  The V70R is the perfect AWD replacement for anyone who has enjoyed an 850 turbo. The accelleration (with automatic trans) is very similar but the ride is more compliant and the handling much improved (you would never know you are in a wagon when cornering). If you wish more accelleration, go with the 6-speed manual - you will find the accelleration of the automatic underwhelming (considering the car has 300HP)compared with the 6M. The 04 is my wifes car and I will be replacing my Volvo Cross Country with a V70R 6M this spring.