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:

• 

  2000 v70 awd Volvo - 2000 Volvo V70
  By Andre - January 10 - 7:03 pm

  The car is very solid, it is well appointed with heated seats, retractable sun roof, the 2.4l motor has turbo. Overall this was a very good purchase: I travel many highway miles, the car hugs the road, and the turbo makes the fuel economy soar. The maintenance fits into the domestic price league so Costco oil changes & lubes for $35 are perfect choice for budget minded car owners. The awd in the recent snow with all season tires was ample. Overall, a very good car, fun to drive and safe with the kids.

• 

  good safe car - 2001 Volvo V70
  By blackie - January 6 - 3:36 am

  We have owned Volvo 240s since 1991 when I decided Honda Civics were not safe enough. My reasoning came from the junk yard. I would look at the cars there and ask did the occupants become seriously injured or possibly killed? When I looked at Volvos, the answer was no. Along comes 2008, we decide to modernize, we buy a new Nissan Versa sedan, side airbags, front airbags, the works. My wife was rear ended while she was 15mph, the other driver 50mph, both the other drivers Nissan Sentra and my wifess car totaled by the insurance companies. both parties injured moderately. Versa did ok but if she had been in the V70 I believe she would have been injured little, if at all. Volvo for life!

• 

  Volvo V70 T5 - 2001 Volvo V70
  By - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive wagon with more space than many SUV. First year after redesign has reliability issues, mainly electrical nature.

• 

  Love this car. - 2000 Volvo V70
  By queen bee - January 3 - 6:33 am

  This vehicle has saved me several times on slick roads. Snow driving feature is great, as well as AWD. Gets through mud better than a jeep. Done wonderful duty moving back and forth from house to farm and summer home, also moving my father into a retirement home. Carries an enormous amount and the rear door is cut wide and high relative to the roof. And it looks great! Its comfortable to ride in, roomy.

• 

  Fun Safety Box - 1998 Volvo V70
  By mtnbiker - January 3 - 2:00 am

  I recently added a new ECU unit to the car with a sportier exhaust system from IPD so now the car flies for a Volvo. Instead of the stock 190 hp, Im running with around 230. The car hasnt been the most reliable with the little things such as bulbs, and squeeks here and there, but the overall quality is fabulous. Just find a good mechanic that you trust and keep the car serviced and it will run well in all conditions. The all-wheel drive system is very good in the snow, especially when starting in 2nd gear (winter mode). The only AWD system that I feel is better is from Audi.

• 

  Less Than Impressed - 2001 Volvo V70
  By JJR - December 9 - 10:00 am

  Replaced a wonderful and trustworthy 91 745T Wagon, believing that Volvo wouldnt let me down, was I wrong. Volvo seems to have lost their touch with build quality. Front end noises (clunking) began at 5K, replaced ball joints, bushings, and control arms. Thermostat replaced at 10K, geartronic transmission has been problematic requiring various software patches, 8 light bulb replacements (including the rear license plate bulbs!), replaced two cargo covers that have shreaded under nominal use. The car is sluggish in hot humid weather, too much body roll in cornering for a "sport suspension", steering is ponderous and heavy.

• 

  Nickle and dime, dollar and credit card - 1998 Volvo V70
  By stickboy - December 6 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car in 02 as an off lease certified pre owned. So far in the year in a half that we have owned (regular maintenance performed)it, we have had the turn signals fail (hazard button module replaced), thermostat failure(replaced part and radiator flushed and filled), power window module in the driver side door failure ($125 to replace the entire module), dripping oil periodically from the turbo area (dealer says they cant do anything about it-weep hole for the unit?), motor failure for the climate control system($300 repair and no hvac usage until its fixed.), hard starting (leaking fuel injector $142ea. and must replace all 5 says the dealer).

• 

  Best vehicle purchase ever! - 2000 Volvo V70
  By The Oakleys - December 4 - 10:00 am

  We are very happy with our choice to purchase a Volvo. We LOVE our V70 SE. We were fortunate to get the ultimate treatment when we purchased our Volvo directly from Volvo Intl., and picked it up in Sweden! A one of a kind experience The V70 handles well and has been extremely reliable. Its wonderful to know about all the research that has gone into all the safety features in any Volvo.

• 

  01 V70 T5 - Thumbs Up! - 2001 Volvo V70
  By Rick - November 26 - 8:06 pm

  New to the Volvo world but my brother has owned three, including his current 02 V70. Just brought home our 01 T5 last month; its a well-maintained 2-owner w. 95k mi. Ive owned various BMWs, Jaguars, VWs, etc. & this Volvo compares very well. From the interior & exterior design to the performance & fun of driving, the car has an overall feel of real quality & thoughtful engineering. As preventative maintenance, I changed the timing belt (incl. tensioner & pulley) & water pump after the purchase; also put in a new cabin air filter. The 01 V70 sometimes gets a bad rap, but I suspect thats at least as much owner issues as the car itself. Thumbs up on a great car, especially the T5.

• 

  2.5T - 2007 Volvo V70
  By RRB - November 19 - 1:16 pm

  Provides more usable space than most small SUVs while possessing better road manners and comfort. However, after having driven Saabs for many years, I found the large turning radius of this vehicle to be almost truck-like by comparison.