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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  Zippy comfort - 2006 Volvo V70
  By raddoc - September 29 - 5:50 am

  Ordered this car 3 months ago to replace Audi A6 2.7T. The car came in two weeks early, a first in my experience. Extremely comfortable sport style seats are even better than the seats on all of our previous vehicles - including 2005 Benz. This wagon is a great value compared to MB, BMW and Audi for size, performance and absolute $$$ spent.

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  Love my 2000 V70 4 Dr SE Wagon... - 2000 Volvo V70
  By Peatmoss - September 23 - 3:43 pm

  I bought this wagon 2 years ago with 126,000 miles on it. Im the 4th owner. As soon as I drove it I liked it. It did have a slight hesitation when accelerating but that turned out to be some sort of air module which was covered by a dealer recall. I got the car back and had the tie rod ends replaced, 4 new tires and an alignment and it runs like a new car... very smooth! I currently have a 177,000 miles and it still runs great! Not sure if its so reliable because it was built in Belgium (still has the Port of Entry sticker on it). I do mostly highway miles and have consistently averaged 27 - 29 mpg!! My goal is to reach 300,000+ miles!

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  Bring on the snow! - 2004 Volvo V70
  By jamm66 - September 15 - 2:00 am

  3rd Volvo, very happy so far. Interior takes a little getting used to, much different than older wagons. Stereo is wonderful, instrumentation plain but perfect, great ergonomic positioning. I have sport seats and highly recommend them, super comfortable, but arent all Volvo seats? Wagon is as versatile as ever, superb room and hauling capacity. 2.5T engine is a torque monster! Big improvement over the 2.4 in every area but fuel economy. GREAT ENGINE! The Haldex system is best in class. Effortless handling of snow and muck here in VT.

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  Awesome Wagon! - 2004 Volvo V70
  By jumpnup22 - September 9 - 2:00 am

  I was quite surprised with how great this automobile is! I have a Saleen mustang, so I know what some performance is! My wife wanted this car, so we traded the 2002 Toyota Land Cruiser for the V70R. I am overwhelmed with how much fun this car is to drive. It is easy to load, accelerates great, stops even better, and rides like a luxury car. All this, and it gets great gas mileage. I have a feeling this one will be in the family for quite a long time! If you can find one, BUY IT!

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2002 Volvo V70
  By rfksinfl - August 26 - 2:00 am

  Great car. I have two young children and a dog. It always makes me feel great knowing my wife and kids are safe while driving around town. Its reliability and style for a touring variant is very impressive. Not pretentious like BMW or MB but screams class. The seats are the most comfy I have ever experienced. I also love the 5 speed as it is very smooth and adds to the performance greatly. European drivers know that variants(wagons) are extremely versatile without sacraficing performance. V70 is roomy, practical, sporty, fun to drive and classy.

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  AWESOME!! - 2005 Volvo V70
  By JHWinick - August 9 - 5:36 am

  A perfect "no compromise" compromise. For those that need the features of a station wagon, but really desire the sportiness of a two-seater - this is the ticket. High performance, high comfort and high utility. An awesome automobile.

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  One of the best performance buys! - 2004 Volvo V70
  By SleeperWagon - July 17 - 10:00 am

  One of the best performance car buys on the market. It is also one of the best cars on the market. There are not many manual-transmission wagons on the market. Great engine, great AWD and the 6-speed is one of the best Ive ever used. The interior (Atacama) has gotten so many compliments I have long since lost count. The replacement for my 2001 Acura MDX was going to be this or the Infiniti FX35 and the decision really came down to exclusivity. While the FX is a phenomenal car, there are too many of them. I can count the number of Volvo Rs Ive seen on two hands. It also has a great sound system and an awesome adjustable suspension!

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  Never ever would even think of a wagon ! - 2004 Volvo V70
  By lap8312 - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car (my first Volvo) after having a Lincoln Navigator (over- priced piece of crap), I LOVE THIS CAR !!! It is fast, comfortable and sexy for station wagon (after limo tinting the windows), I AM NO soccer Mom, even though I have 3 kids, But, when people I know pick on my choice I take them for a ride (or let them drive it) AND well, they have a different perspective. Test drive one youll love it !! The ONLY down fall my Husband is 601" and he said that it is tight for him in the drivers seat,But that it is fun to drive. Ask a Dealer to crash pictures AMAZING people walk away !!!

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  Work on it yourself!!! - 2001 Volvo V70
  By Backyard Swede Mech - July 17 - 12:03 am

  This is a good car that gets a bad rap. The tranny has a $19 fix from IPD to fix the hard into and out of 3rd shifts, and missing 3rd all together. The ETM should be replaced with one from xemodex in Canada. They have a mod that turns them into a lifetime unit. Although it is $550. Those two things will cover 90% of the complaints.

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  Best Car We Ever Bought! - 2002 Volvo V70
  By WestHillsMom - July 9 - 2:00 am

  Since our family has expanded to 2 children we were looking for a safe family vehicle and opted for a Volvo Wagon instead of the typical SUV. Our V70 feels solid/safe, looks classy, and drives great!