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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  Wouldnt trade it for the world.... - 2004 Volvo V70
  By XCowner - April 19 - 10:00 am

  Had the Saab, and the Land Rover, this by far gives me seven seats and power, but outstanding turning radius, get-up, and comfort. Will always be a Volvo owner now. Easy on the pocket for gas and insurance too.--Lots to offer

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  It could have been a good experience - 1998 Volvo V70
  By Sven - March 29 - 6:56 am

  Replaced: entire rear suspension, two sets of front sway bar links, rear brakes (twice), front brakes, 02 sensor (twice), master window switch, IP lights, headlights (4!!! times), Lamda sensor...and the list goes on. Nothing ever rendered the car undriveable, and its a hoot to drive fast in the snow. Much better to drive than any SUV. Dealer is awful in every sense, and Volvo service doesnt couldnt care less. They could have had me "for life," but they blew it.

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  Dont buy used - 1998 Volvo V70
  By $$$outthewindow - March 25 - 10:00 am

  This car has been great up untill the 70K mile mark. Now its falling apart. Ive spent $3,200. in the first half of this year. on repairs & maintenance. Check Eng. Light is a constent. problem. I have never heard of putting a new gas tank & gasket in a car before, but the service dept. said this was the reason for the check Eng. Light. Just $ 1,400. and I was on my way. They could give me no good reason why it needed to be fixed. The C.E.L. came back on 4 weeks down trhe road. This time hoses.

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  DO NOT Buy a used 2001 XC - 2001 Volvo V70
  By The Sluffy - February 26 - 10:30 am

  I loved the design of these Cross Country wagons, very handsome, and the interior fit and finish is really beautiful in this car, but otherwise this think is an abosule MESS. Stay away at all costs. I have owned two other Volvos in the past, but this piece of junk has really soured me on Volvo. Its too bad...but I think the 2000 and 2001/2002 are really bad reliability wise. Ive had to replace the transmission, there is always something going wrong with the car, and its so crazy expensive to get it fixed, at least $500 to $1000 each time it goes to the shop. Im dumping this piece of junk before it eats my lunch.

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  Fabulous and Fun V70 - 2002 Volvo V70
  By MaineTrees - February 23 - 9:40 pm

  After 4 years and 50K+ miles I still love this car. It is a joy to drive. Seat comfort is superb. I can drive for hours with no back ache. Braking system is superb. This is the non-turbo model and has plenty of pep with the 5 speed auto transmission. 32 MPG highway at 70 mph. About 22-23 in the city. Repairs and scheduled maint are expensive at the dealer!! Find a good independent garage and stick to the maintenance schedule. You will save lots of $$. Change the trans fluid every 40K miles, the claimed lifetime trans fluid interval is baloney. The cost of a new tranny will make you cry!

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  Love the XC so far - 1998 Volvo V70
  By pete_427 - February 15 - 10:00 am

  We bought a used XC a year ago and so far, despite a couple nagging bulb- related problems, we really like the car. The ride and comfort are excellent, it has plenty of power, it looks fantastic, and its great in foul weather. The "check engine" light just came on and we are scheduled to have it looked into. I hope were not about to enter "check engine light" hell (as described by other reviewers). Overall a really nice car, but Ill agree not what Id have expected for $40k when new (in terms of attention to build-quality details).

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  nice except for electronic glitch - 2003 Volvo V70
  By pittsburgh v70 owner - February 14 - 10:36 pm

  Overall, we are happy with the 2003 V70. The car handles very well, it is esthetically pleasing, gets good gas mileage, and has great storage. The main complaint is with a cold-start problem. The car would not start at temperatures below about 30 - 35F. Frustratingly ironic for a Swedish car. Left us stranded once. Eventually, Volvo tracked the problem down to a faulty engine control module after a few repair attempts. Since then, weve had no complaints. Would probably buy another.

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  Who needs an SUV? - 2002 Volvo V70
  By PJ - February 12 - 3:16 am

  Excellent value. Looks great. Great driving vehicle. Avg. about 22mpg around town. Seats are the most comfortable I have ever owned. High-pressure turbo throws you back in your seat. Holds the whole family (and the dog) in comfort and safety.

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  New V70R - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Dans_V70 - January 22 - 2:00 am

  First Volvo was an abandoned 1958 PV544. Towed to my college apartment, started the PV544 and it ran with absolutely no problems for three years. However, the 70’s and 80’s weren’t to kind on Volvo quality and I soon discovered Japanese auto value. So why the V70R? For one thing Japanese cars are a commodity. High quality commodity for sure, but not very unique character. Also, I missed having the versatility of a wagon. I just picked up the V70R. Its exactly what I was looking for. Unique combination of luxury, safety, practicality, and pure adrenaline rush with 300 HP and super low-end torque. This car is a joy to drive.

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  Stylish, Clever, Fun, Safe - 2001 Volvo V70
  By BHL220 - January 16 - 10:16 am

  I love my V70 2.4 Turbo. The clever packaging, stylish looks, great handling and fun to drive factor. Not to forget that Im not embarrassed to drive a wagon since it looks sporty and more upscale than most grocery getters. Reliability? Running great at 131K w/ some problems along the way. But cmon, this is no Honda/Yota. My Benz that cost 2x as much has 2x the issues and my new BMW has been in the shop more than not, and like my V70, is a first year production model. If reliability is top priority over form, fun and function then go Japanese. Maintain these cars and they last forever, not without faults though. Swede love.