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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  Volvo dropped the ball on the V70 series - 2001 Volvo V70
  By gedafe - April 8 - 8:26 am

  My family and I have driven Volvos for most of our lives, from the old 240s up to todays V70s. I have to say that (arguably) though looks have improved, quality control has not. Sure my V70 looks top notch, but Ive had multiple issues with the car from the brakes to the ETM to the suspension. All of these problems are not cheap to fix, ranging from $700-1200 a visit. It seems that Volvo dropped the ball on their 2001 line of V70s, and theyre not considering any recalls. Youll find many owners having the same problems: ETM gives out while driving at highway speeds, the clunk felt when starting up from a stopped position, the brake rotors needing replacement every 20K miles, etc.

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  T5 Tribute - 2002 Volvo V70
  By von - April 6 - 1:10 pm

  Great high powered wagon. Plush ride kick in the pants get up and go and nice functional styling. I only have 8500 miles on it so it is a little early to know how she will hold up over time. So far I am very pleased with my purchase. Only problem so far is keeping myself from getting a speeding ticket.

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  Ill NEVER give this one up! - 2004 Volvo V70
  By LORinNOR - March 19 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Volvo wagon. They just keep getting better and better! This model has a much nicer ride, although you give up a little on the turning radius. Love the turbo...not just a mom car! LOL Dont buy until you try!!!

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  Car Review- Volvo - 2004 Volvo V70
  By firstmate - March 19 - 2:00 am

  This car handles great in all weather conditions and is very fun to drive. Its very peppy and easy to handle. The interior is very nice and features qualities found in luxury sedans. I would highly recommend a Volvo to anyone looking for a new car. I plan to keep this for a long time.

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  2003 V70 - 2004 Volvo V70
  By aaaaaa - March 19 - 2:00 am

  The mechanical design needs more help from engineering, already I have problem with the stabilizer bars this is the second time with two different years cars..Many of my friends who have bought a V70 have said to me the quality has decreased in the past years.

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  V70 - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Donlmcmillan - March 19 - 2:00 am

  The v70 has everything you need in an auto for family. It offers a luxury car with most features standard without sacrificing on any safety concerns.Side impact air bags are present in all four doors as well as front impact air bags for driver and passenger in addition to air-bag curtains for the windows.

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  Most Comfortable Car Around - 2004 Volvo V70
  By DonMX5 - March 19 - 2:00 am

  The Volvo V70 is by far the most comfortable car Ive owned in my 52 years of car ownership. While our Lexus in superior to all ever owned in build quality, when it comes to a road trip we always take the Volvo as one can drive long hours and still arrive feeling fresh and relaxed. I often go out to the Volvo to do my reading as the seats are more comfortable than my favorite easy chair.

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  2004 V 70 - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Sumrsail - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I ordered my V 70 and gotit the last of June 03.Drove it on a 4500 mile trip in October.Got 32 mpg on flat land through the desert and 27 to 29 in the mountains.So far with almost 10k on the clock absoutly 0 problems. Most comfortable leather seats ive ever seen in a vehicle.Smooth and quiet ride with no wind noise ,even at 100 mph, with sports car like handling.Very responsive road manners.This makes my 3rd Volvo,since 1978

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  Stealth - 2007 Volvo V70
  By Otoman - March 19 - 1:50 am

  This has been a fantastic car. Very comfortable for the long haul with outstanding seats, lots of cargo room and best of all, it flies! No one expects that a Volvo wagon can move so quickly. I often have cars trying to pass me on the right/cut me off, etc. I can easily close down any hole in the traffic with this car. Passing/merging is fun. Blitzing down interstate on-ramps is a joy. Clover leaf on-ramps are a treat as well. The upgraded sound system is worth the money. If you want a lot of go with very little show, this is your car.

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  Volvo V70 - 1999 Volvo V70
  By jobo - March 12 - 10:00 am

  This car is the most solid built car I have owned. I currently own a Mercedes ML 430 and choose to drive this car 90% of the time.