Overview & Reviews

The Volvo XC70 is an all-weather version of the now-discontinued V70 midsize wagon that boasts all-wheel drive as well as increased ground clearance and SUV-like styling cues. The latter two features are mostly for show, however, as the XC70 has never had much in the way of serious off-road hardware. What the XC70 has consistently offered is a more sure-footed demeanor in foul weather conditions, and it has become progressively more stylish and luxurious through the years, while maintaining its SUV-grade cargo space and superior reputation for safety.

The current generation Volvo XC70 is ruggedly handsome, and it continues to offer many of the same virtues as previous versions: confidence-inspiring all-wheel drive, top-notch safety, a luxurious cabin and enough cargo space to satisfy all but the most haul-happy families. With the base inline six-cylinder engine, however, performance is lackluster -- other midsize wagons and a handful of crossover SUVs are both more satisfying to drive and comparably or more frugal at the pump. The turbocharged T6 model addresses the speed issue at least. The XC70 is a solid family vehicle, especially for those living in colder climates. Still, there are competing models that have similarly appealing traits, as well as superior power and/or efficiency.

Current Volvo XC70
The Volvo XC70 technically competes in the midsize wagon segment, although its available all-wheel drive, raised ride height and SUV-like features make it competitive with crossover SUVs as well.

Offered in base, front-wheel-drive 3.2 or uplevel all-wheel-drive T6 trim, the XC70 comes well equipped with alloy wheels, skid plates, roof rails, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity and an eight-speaker audio system with satellite radio and an iPod interface. The T6 adds bigger wheels, dual exhaust outlets, a power sunroof, leather seating and a "watch dial" instrument cluster. Major options include front/rear park assist, a navigation system, heated front and rear seats, a rearview camera and adaptive bi-xenon headlights. Of course, there are also available cutting-edge safety features that include adaptive cruise control, a collision warning system and a lane-departure warning system.

Under the hood of the base model is a 3.2-liter inline-6 that sends 240 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels (all-wheel drive is optional) via a six-speed automatic transmission. Although those numbers aren't bad, the XC70's acceleration and fuel economy are both decidedly unimpressive. The T6 shares the six-speed transmission and AWD system, but adds a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 that pumps out a more satisfying 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque.

The stylish XC70 should please any family that requires all-weather capability, carlike handling and an upscale cabin with plenty of cargo space. But with the proliferation of crossover SUV offerings in recent years, there are numerous competing models that boast similar strengths along with better overall performance, particularly compared to the XC70 3.2. We'd recommend taking a good look at what the market has to offer before deciding on the XC70, though those who ultimately go with the Volvo likely won't be disappointed.

Used Volvo XC70 Models
The present-generation XC70 debuted in 2008. At first it was available only with the base, 235-hp 3.2-liter inline-6. But the following year Volvo brought out the more spirited T6 model with its turbocharged 281-hp 3.0-liter engine. For 2010, the grille's styling was tweaked (including a larger Volvo emblem) and the navigation system was revised, though still clunky to use due to its odd steering wheel controls. The next year saw both engines get their output boosted to current levels, and a front-wheel-drive variant debuted. These latter XC70s are similar to the current version, apart from their lacking the newer car's superior infotainment system (which boasts a 7-inch color monitor and more intuitive interface).

Prior to this, Volvo sold the second-generation XC70 from 2001-'07. Like its V70 sibling, this V70 XC sported a sleeker shape and a new platform shared with the first-generation S80 sedan, as well as a striking interior layout largely borrowed from the S60 sedan. In 2002, Volvo changed business tactics, dropping the "V70" from the car's title and marketing it separately from the V70 line as the Volvo XC. In 2003, the "70" designation returned, giving us the first official Volvo XC70.

Second-generation cars could be equipped with a navigation system for the first time. The 2.4-liter engine was tweaked to produce 197 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque, yielding satisfactory if not thrilling performance. In 2003, the 2.4-liter mill was replaced by a 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine that pumped out 208 hp and a healthy 236 lb-ft of torque, which made the XC70 feel rather quick. Rear-seat room was improved over the rather cramped first-generation car, though we still weren't overly impressed, and a third-row seat was available in every model year except 2007. Other available features included adjustable rear seats, four-zone climate control and a DVD entertainment system with front headrest-mounted TV screens.

Well-optioned second-generation XC70s were pricey in their day, but depreciation has helped matters somewhat. Still, the European and premium status of Volvos frequently translates to an expensive repair bill, should you run into problems. Those looking for a used Volvo XC70 should consider a certified pre-owned car or one that still has the factory warranty. If you care about performance, 2003 and later XC70s are the logical choice, as they offer a useful 26 extra lb-ft of torque as well as 11 more hp. Otherwise, you won't be missing much if you go with the 2001 or 2002 model.

The XC70 originally debuted in 1998 as the "V70 Cross Country" (XC for short), an upgraded trim level for the V70 wagon. With its advanced safety features (including side airbags from its inception), capacious interior, all-wheel-drive utility and trendy SUV looks, this endearingly boxy people mover quickly became a strong seller. Powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter five-cylinder engine, the first-generation V70 XC was rated at 190 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque -- adequate in its day, but not exactly scintillating.

User Reviews:

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  2008 Volvo XC70 in Canada - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By NIBS - August 23 - 5:33 am

  This is my third Volvo. Previous to this car was an 02 XC70 and an 850 turbo. My experience with the 08 model is not something to write home about. The fuel economy of this car (avg 13.8L/100kms) is far less than the 2002 and the increase in HP does little to affect performance. Personally I prefer the older turbo model. I also like the center stack from the old model as it was slightly turned towards the driver. Other than cosmetic, there is very little about this car that is better than the previous model. The car is not as quiet nor as tight. I currently have 13K kms on this car and it has been back to the dealer five times for warranty repair.

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  Needs some work - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By walterq - August 23 - 9:46 pm

  A lot of road noise, window seals had to be replaced 2xs, still inadequate. When they replaced window seals, primer damaged paint. Radio and interior music enjoyment is terrible. Bearings (3) went at 51,000 miles, 1000 miles over warranty.

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  not up to Volvo quality standards - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By ahickman - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Our Volvo XC70 has been nothing but trouble -- nothing like the safety, reliability, quality image Volvo advertizes: - the air conditioner didnt work when it was delivered - a rock got stuck in the real wheel assembly, the rim cracked, and the tire deflated... not covered by warranty - the front brake pads wore out at 19k miles - interior parts keep falling off - the gas tank door fell off - everything electrical malfunctions

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  Mix Bag of Unknowns - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By Kevin - June 11 - 2:10 am

  We bought this in April and I am very sensitive to transmission quirks . It hunts incessantly from gear to gear indecisively making me a bit uncomfortable. I never felt confident and the mpg is not near the perf we should get. . I kept getting the runaround from the dealer saying its an "adaptive" trans. and would smooth out after break in , but I know cars and was upset 4 months later- gas mileage under 20 I finally snapped sold it on craigslist saying we were moving . Yeah moving from one car to another . The Volvo was true to its FORD bones-poor-power to weight. We got an Audi A4 - Like night and day- some sap got the VOLVO- Volvos now I know what all the hupla is about- nothing!

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  do not buy this car . beware it is deadly dangerous. - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By goodbye - December 17 - 12:05 am

  i own an 850@450,000 km. needed 2nd car, found a 2004 XC70@65,000 from Volvo dealership. thinking this is going to be great.

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  Beware of the Bills - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By NeverAgain - February 18 - 5:23 am

  The Xc-70 has been a very expensive car to repair with many part failures conveniently occurring right after warranty expiration. Dealer promised to cover but then reneged. Will never deal with Volvo again. Brakes on car are poor full replacement every 30K miles. Would expect more from the safest car in the world. Many other cars that are quieter, better mileage and overall more reliable than this. Deeply disgusted

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  Not an Audi - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By WT - September 22 - 11:16 pm

  My previous car was an Audi 200 quattro avant and on paper this car is very close. In reality it not even a contest. It does nothing as well as the almost 15 year older car. Big delay from start, bad handling, lighter modern brakes - yuk! The controls are cheap and all work backwards. And then there is the seat which always wants to move away from the last driver when you get in. They even blew the armrests. Blows light bulbs for some strange reason. Gas mileage OK though. Going back to a real european car and getting rid of this Ford!

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  My Last Volvo - Disapointing - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By jeffmay27 - June 25 - 12:23 am

  I have owned three Volvos in the last 10 years, always leased them for 4 years and got another one. This was my second XC70. This 2008 XC70 has been horrible, the day I got it one of the radiators sprung a leak and I Was forced to get it serviced on a Satruday. the sales rep did nto include an owners manual or the Volvo hotline. Since then the floating panel had to be replaced, the windows do nto go up and down properly. I took the car in at 82,000Km to get last warranty work done (I was late by 2K) and was told the rules - has to be under 80,000KM. I guess a 10 year history with a Company does not warrant any reverse loyalty. MY last Volvo - I will be glad when my lease is up Jul12.

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  Worst car I ever owned - 2007 Volvo XC70
  By crustyjef2 - September 23 - 10:47 pm

  We purchased this car hoping to get well into 6 figures on the mileage. Well within 2000 miles of the warranty expiring i am incurring $8000 in repairs. Failed water pump and timing belt and then the transmission failed. Volvo and dealership seem to care less. I get it that i am outside the warranty, but come on Volvo! 2000 miles?

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  Underwhelmed - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By John in Calgary - September 1 - 11:53 am

  I bought my 2003 Volvo XC 70 about 18 months ago and have been pretty underwhelmed. The car looks fine but is very underpowered for a $50,000 (Cdn) premium wagon. The handling is also terrible and the fit and finish leave something to be desired. It is comfortable but the other short comings are just too much. The new 2005 Outback is a much better vehicle with way better performance, handling and hauling capabilities - for $10,000 less (Cdn).