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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  No Way - 1999 Volvo V70
  By Tang306a - December 19 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new. Everything was ok for the first year. After that it went down hill fast. Transmission died at 16k miles, the car eats tires, replaced the alternator, replaced 4 engine mounts, replaced the throttle assembly, leaks anti-freeze all the time, Leather seats wore out, steering wheel covering came off and so on…. I am glad to have gotten rid of the car and would not buy Volvo again

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  Were Do I Start? - 2001 Volvo V70
  By art - November 11 - 8:40 pm

  I am 59 years old and I have owned about 8-10 volvos during my life. Most recently I purchased a used off of a lease v-70 T-5 with 47000 miles on it. It had a full service till 100K. If it did not have that I would have gone broke. Here is a list. 2 radiators, one ac unit, one transmission, numerous electrical problems, 2 replaced sunroofs. Most recently I have to stuff rags and paper into the sunroof area to keep the sunroof from rattling. Numerous rattles in the car, rough ride and the list goes on. My previous car was an acura which give up the ghost at 225,000 miles. This volvo is a piece of junk. I would stay away like a bad cold. Never again. Then I found out that most of the

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  In the Shop Again!! - 1998 Volvo V70
  By JDR - November 4 - 10:00 am

  The Volvo XC AWD is a reliability nightmare! Mines in the shop today for the 3rd time in 11 months, and 8,000 miles for check engine light being on. This time, Im 19 days out of warranty and theyre replacing the carbon evaporation canister (the 2nd time in 2 years). The bill is $460.00 and Im hopping mad! Oh, lets not forget the stupid light bulb I need replaced this go-around too. The one bulb I wish would burn out (check engine) hasnt! Im seriously contemplating dumping this junky car and return to driving my old, reliable, 140,000 mile, 88 Honda Accord once again.

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  Stranded - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Stranded Again - October 12 - 10:00 am

  I have driven more miles on the loaner than on my own car. I have owned this car for 30 days and 12 of them have been in the garage. So far the car has left me stranded twice. Then to add insult to injury they pick up the non-working car, and leave my wife and children* on the street to call our own cab and arrange our own rental car after hours on a holiday weekend. I would have to say I am dissappointed. * wife and children - For whom you bought the car, so they would be safe!

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  Truly a lemon - 2004 Volvo V70
  By Meadow - September 20 - 8:03 am

  Weve driven a lot of Volvos over the years, and the 2004 has the worst reliability by far. Were very disappointed that we had to replace the radiator and rack and pinion steering at 82,000 miles. These were very expensive to replace, and theres no reason that either should have failed before 100K miles. Currently the steering wheel buttons that control the stereo are frozen. The gas gauge also swings wildly from 1/3 full to empty when the vehicle is low on fuel. This car is a heap of problems.

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  2001 v70xc - 2001 Volvo V70
  By vb - August 31 - 3:36 pm

  This car reminds me of the old english sports cars... a dream to drive WHEN theyre working. Ive had reliablity issues with this car since day one. Interior and exterior parts are flimsy and break. Front end built too light for American roads. Poor support by dealer. I dont think they know how to fix it, they just replace parts till the problem goes away. I would say.. STAY AWAY from this car.

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  $1000 repair every visit. - 2001 Volvo V70
  By JimR - August 13 - 4:00 pm

  Get the extended warranty! Well I just received the call from the dealership that my Volvo needs a new transmission ($4,500). Since the car is worth between $5-$6K that’s it. The car was a great car to drive. The car just was not reliable. After about 50-60K miles, every trip to the dealer was another $1K bill. I’m not talking consumables here but things that have never broken on any car I have ever owned. (a radio that would change stations every time the car hit a bump or the driver window that fell out of its track twice -after being fixed). There is nothing like driving a $40K car with duct tape holding your window up. My wife hates this car.

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  its a lemon - 2000 Volvo V70
  By drivesmemad - July 10 - 5:43 pm

  I bought this car used with low miles three years ago. Many problems with brakes and replacing rotors, the interior of the trunk door is falling apart, cant get into the trunk without having to crawl through to the back. Just paid 800. for an ABS module replacement. And very cheap interior plastic pieces, i.e. cup holders...I have one left that works. No leg room in the back...not even for an tiny 8 yr old. The rear view mirror broke off today. Going back to Toyota. I really wanted to be a proud owner. But its a lemon!

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  Safe but not reliable - 2001 Volvo V70
  By sinew23 - May 6 - 9:46 pm

  I wanted a Volvo because of its safety. I picked the XC70 because it had all wheel drive. Since weve had this car, its had nothing but problems. First, we had to replace all the bushings for the suspension system which cost me $1800. Next the EMT failed which cost another $1200. Now, theyre telling me the torque mount, inner tie rod and rear lumbar rod needs replacing and its going to cost me another $1500.

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  Great ride but one repair after another - 2001 Volvo V70
  By ksmith905 - March 15 - 7:40 am

  I do love the feel, looks, and power of this car. It is ergonomically the best car Ive yet owned. I am, however, completely fed up with the many repairs (expensive ones at that) that Ive needed for the last 3 years (since the warranty expired). I replaced emission sensors twice, replaced strut top caps, replaced the drive shaft. I have lost confidence in this car... intermittent "emissions system service required" & ABS service required" messages, one blinker bulb or another blowing out every 4 months or so. A month ago a hissing by the brake pedal. Diagnosis: time to replace the brake booster - $800. Tonight a new message: "transmission service required". Argh!