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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  Oh my god repairs. No love after 120k. - 1998 Volvo V70
  By dennisonn - October 1 - 8:30 am

  First of all, I love this car, and the Volvo brand. This wagon is excellent, and the engine is to die for! Seriously, just stomp on the gas, that makes a believer out of anyone who laughs at the wagon =). That is if your car is working. When my family purchased this car at 80k, no problems at all! Now at 180k Heres an abbreviated list of repairs I have done/paid for in the past 2 years alone. One faulty computer. Three faulty O2 sensors. Two distributor caps (its fun when the cars stalls while its raining) Front& Rear Axel, Brake pads, and rotors. Sunroof. Timing belt, radiator, heater core. AC system, various electrical issues, Now a new turbo? No thanks. Massive oil leak. ugh.

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  Volvo V70 T5 - 2005 Volvo V70
  By DWallace - September 27 - 1:13 am

  Excellent all rounder. I do a lot of freeway miles and this car makes the trips pleasureable. It has a lot of power which is useful when joining the freeway or overtaking. It has a very comfortable driving position and feels rock solid on the road. And believe it or not, its fun to drive. On an open road the performance of this car is quite surprising.

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  costs on replacement - 1998 Volvo V70
  By Guiness - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Ive own my wagon for 6yrs now,min repairs other than standard parts like timing belts, tires. One area that I ran into now at 201,000 miles is the rear struts. On my car the cost to replace them is $550.00 per side..( will not replace) so Ill live with the bumps or pot holes, but its really not bad. I am known to keep my cars until the engine goes, most of my other volvos have gone 370,000 miles, so still have 3-4yrs left on this one. One key factor on volvos, they never need a tune-up. same plugs etc and the car is 13 years old. So if your thinking of this year 1998, go for it...I also own a 1989 saab and that has 250,000 and it looks/drives as good as the day it came off the line.

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  Take a test drive u wont be sorry - 2004 Volvo V70
  By JLZ - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my old A6 Avant. This is an excellent car, Always makes you feel confindent to step on the gas. In bumper to bumper traffic you are pampered by one of the best sound systems on the market and a comfort set suspension. On the open road you can gun it, the suspension and stearing are flawless. And best of all very few people know what you got under the hood. GREAT CAR!!!!!

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  Nearing Perfection - 2001 Volvo V70
  By Volvo Dave - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I would argue that no car is perfect... yet the new Volvo wagon is nearing the unattainable. I have been driving my T5 for twenty-one months, and simply adore it. My recommendations to anyone considering the V70 wagon would be as follows: 1) Get the turbo. I see people in my rear view mirror with their jaw in their lap as I pull away from a red light. This car is fast. 2) Get the 17" Pirelli tires. Im not one for tricked out cars, but these make the car look HOT and keep you on the road. Thats about it. I cant wait to upgrade to the new wagon, due out in a year or so with an even bigger engine. Someone at Volvo needs a nice pat on the back!!!

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  Going Strong at 160K - 2001 Volvo V70
  By drh - September 13 - 5:20 pm

  Now at 160K with no problems. New tires and preventive care is all this volvo has asked for 8 years. Very fun and comfortable ride with the 2.4turbo and luxury cabin. Besides family of five chores and vacations, we take this volvo antiquing and regularly treat it like a truck. On the highway we get 28-30mpg on regular grade fuel.

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  Very comfy - 2003 Volvo V70
  By woodchuckscout - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Its big and drives like a tank, the fuel economy is pretty good, however if you open the sun/moon roof all the way back, it creates a funny wind effect sound, annoying.

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  Everything we hoped for - 1998 Volvo V70
  By scott - August 29 - 12:53 am

  We never thought we would shell out $35,000 for a Volvo AWD. But having owned the car now for 7 years, I can honestly say it is the best car we have ever had. It has a feel of extreme quality and runs "like new" to this day. Yes, repairs can be pricy on a $35k car - do people expect differently? The turbo provides plenty of pep, the leather seats are to die for, mileage is fine (19-24). We have had next to zero "fit and finish" problems, unlike our other vehicles which have come and gone. No major accidents, but you know with Volvo you are as safe as you are going to get. If and when this car finally dies (and with only 98000 miles it has a long way to go) I will surely buy another!

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  Nice Car - 1998 Volvo V70
  By Ryan - August 28 - 7:23 pm

  This was my first car, and I still own and like it a lot. So far, the only repair I had done was the front left brake caliper. A seal went bad allowing water to get to the inside causing rust so it didnt release all the way when I let off the brake. Labor is whats most expensive. You can find cheaper refurbished parts from Volvo, which is what I did. Its a heavier car, so it goes through tires faster than others. Fuel economy is okay, it seems to do better with premium. The body and appearance is fantastic. It still looks new 11 years later. Id like to get larger factory Volvo wheels, as the 15" wheels it came with look oddly small compared to the larger body.

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  Its better than a truck! - 2003 Volvo V70
  By Lumbering along - August 28 - 2:00 am

  Volvo V70 2.4 T Black with Black Drives a bit better than a truck and easier to park. Its an attractive car that really shines when you have people and things to move. Its huge! I guess you dont buy a VOLVO for fun and this new model proves it. I have about 1,000k on it and if it turns out to be reliable ill be happy about my decision to purchase a VOLVO. Its still better than a truck!