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:

• 

  fun to drive, but only when it works! - 2000 Volvo V70
  By drj20 - June 1 - 2:00 am

  The car is not that old and I have had to replace, as far as I can tell, everything. The turbo (!), the brakes, the catalytic converter, and lots of things with mysterious names and big price tags. I think the car is really fun to drive and it is the most comfortble car in the world. I also think whoever designed and built it was having a bad day. As much as I love the car when it is working, I would say that this is a car to stay away from.

• 

  Sorry to rate so poorly - 2000 Volvo V70
  By jaxroon - May 26 - 2:00 am

  We were very excited about our purchase, we both dreamed of owning a Volvo for years. Were we just unlucky or is this vehicle one of the most unreliable, poorly manufactured automobile ever made? Constant sensor issues (each sensor cost approx. $500. New Tranny after 35,000 miles. Bulbs constantly blowing, electrical problems, a new angle gear ($2500) after $85,000 miles. Software upgrade for the new tranny after 2 yrs, and the list goes on and on...this car must have cost us $10K in repairs, towing and scheduled maintenance for the 4 years we have owned it. Just a warning folks!

• 

  Frustrated! - 2001 Volvo V70
  By sd - May 22 - 9:53 pm

  I used to love this car, despite the squishy transmission that my husband has complained about since day one. Then, last week, the o-ring failed causing the car to lose all power steering fluid. I had to have it towed the dealer for repair. Yesterday I had to replace all 4 rotors and brake pads at 48,000. The brake pads were originally replaced around 25,000. They assure me that this is typical?! I thought it was unbelievable. Ive had many of the other problems reported by others, slipping transmission, service light appearing for no apparent reason, etc., but the brakes are my last straw. This is my 2nd and last Volvo!

• 

  new V70R automatic owner - 2004 Volvo V70
  By kschel - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Owned V70R automatic (not manual, though the web form does not allow any other designation) for a week. Gave up 2003 Passat Wagon GLS 5 speed, which I loved, to get more room so we could seat all 6 in our family. Built in booster seats are great. Very fun to drive, seats extremely comfortable. You can select different settings for suspension depending on whether you want comfort or want to race. This is a lot of car for the money. Reliability remains to be seen.

• 

  Excellent Choice - 2002 Volvo V70
  By stjean - May 2 - 10:00 am

  I have a 2 year old, and safety was the primary reason for selecting a V70. Very comfortable ride, especially on extended trips. Never thought I would every own a station wagon, but a V70 is more than just a station wagon. I never considered any other. Have received a lot of compliments at my choice.

• 

  Volvo Does Not Get It - 1999 Volvo V70
  By V70 - April 25 - 10:00 am

  My 2nd Volvo Wagon. Surprised to find it listed as a luxury car. The tan on my leather wrapped steering wheel comes off on my hand. I drive with my right hand on the passenger seat to keep it from rattling and the car has a rough idle(dealer says idle is "normal"). The V70 has distinguished itself by racking up over $1,500 in non-routine- maintainance costs in the seven months since the warranty expired. Other components had failed under the warranty period. Now that Subaru has turbocharged the Forester and is offering a leather package, guess what my next wagon will be? Originally bought a Volvo because of the reputation for safety AND durability.

• 

  Best money I ever spent on a used car! - 2000 Volvo V70
  By edanstrekal@live.com - April 22 - 6:35 am

  Ive owned quite a few used cars. I was always attached to unique or freaky cars--old Volkswagens, Cadillacs, 1980s Audis, and more recently Saabs. I always wanted a Volvo wagon because I thought they looked cool and Id heard excellent things about reliability of the 2.4L 5 cylinder engine. I was a little hesitant about the electrical system as it seems all European vehicles have electrical issues, some more so than others. With that being said, this is by far one of the finest vehicles I have ever owned (and I only paid $2500)! I bought it from the second owner with nearly 190K miles on it. The former owner provided me with all the maintenance records from the time it was new. In the last couple of years, he himself had addressed many of the preventative maintenance issues including timing belt, brakes, shocks, and radiator. The only issues were the lock on the tailgate doesnt work with the central locking system and there is a bulb burned out behind the odometer. Since Ive owned it, Ive just kept the oil changed, tires rotated, and replaced the plugs and air filter when necessary. Ive had a few issues with the check engine light coming on now and then, but Ive just cleaned the MAF and throttle body thoroughly and that seems to have fixed it now for other a year! The wagon is very utilitarian. I can carry all kinds of things in the back, bikes, dressers, tables, almost anything within reason. The heating and cooling are much better than expected, and the acceleration for being a non-turbo isnt half bad. Its not a hotrod, but it has the power to go up and down over the Sierra Nevada mountains, which I often do. The seats are some of the most comfortable Ive ever experienced. It is almost nice returning to my Volvo after having a rental car. As far as gas mileage is concerned I average about 20.8 around town, and on long trips I can usually manage over 30. Thats not half bad for a car this size and weight. Although it rattles, and it isnt the smoothest ride, it handles well, always starts up, and just keeps on going at 195K miles now. A great bang for your buck, and since its old I really dont care what happens to it.

• 

  Dependable car - 2005 Volvo V70
  By Vince - April 20 - 5:33 am

  We have an 03 V70 and liked it so much that we bought the 05. Car is solid, comfortable, and dependable. Normal services and no real problems yet through 62K miles. Does have electrical snafus -- at times the fuel gauge doesnt register fuel remaining, and when cold, the MPG and fuel remaining readings arbitrarily change between the 4 or so displays available. Wide turning radius on the 17" wheels -- larger than the 03 with 16" wheels. Smooth & light steering, but bumpier ride than the 03 due to the 225/45R17 tires I suppose. Engine is responsive and turbo gets car up to freeway speed quickly. Original Pirellis still on -- probably replace at 70K.

• 

  our best volvo yet - 2004 Volvo V70
  By wenronian - April 2 - 10:00 am

  This is our best of the 5 Volvos we have owned. Volvo has seemed to work out the minor, yet annoying, electrical problems experienced with their previous cars. This wagon has lots of room, performs well and is very comfortable. We got the integrated booster seats this time and love them!

• 

  New Volvo Wagon - 2005 Volvo V70
  By V70 Fan - March 15 - 2:36 am

  This replaces out 1991 240 wagon with 230k miles on it, purchased new. What a difference, yet not a surprise with the detail and quality. In a nutshell, I feel safe and secure. Average milage 26.5 mpg to date. Comfortable, elegant, and well designed, though it may take getting use to all the features. Study the manual first to know about the purpose and layout. Then appreciate the details.