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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  Lemon - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Bruce Shaw - December 4 - 10:00 am

  Volvo has agreed to take back my car under the lemon law. car will not start under 47 degrees temperature. Computer shuts down auto with every possible excuse as to what is wrong appearing on the consol. dealership and consulting engineers have been unable to locate problem. They are replacing the vehicle with a 2004 xc70.

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  Too many problems - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By bridget7 - November 21 - 3:14 am

  My XC70 has 112,000 miles on it, and is as expensive to run as my Audi was, without the luxury. Each required service, basically a glorified oil change, runs anywhere from $250 to over $500. The AWD quit working last winter because of worn-out teeth on a coupler that attaches to the drive train, according to the mechanic a common problem. They want anywhere from $1000 to $3000 to fix it, depending on "unforeseen problems." Also, the condenser has a leak so the a/c quit working this summer. They want another $1000 to replace that. The radio has a short, which isnt repairable, only replaceable for around $800, and after market stereos cant be installed on Volvos due to a proprietary design.

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  Not the Volvo it used to be - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By Notpleased - October 17 - 12:36 pm

  From the moment I drove the car off the lot new there was a thump in the rear end. It took 18 months to get the problem corrected. At 32,000 miles something internally damaged the engine head, and it needed replacement. It was repaired under warranty, but the car simply does not perform like it did prior to the problem. This all happened even after being religous about meeting service and oil change intervals, etc. I love the look of the car inside and out but the Volvo quality and service have alot to be desired. I say this after having six Volvos over the last 20+ years, the first four running over 100,000 miles with few problems. The last two (both XC70) with nothing but problems.

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  2/3 the way through my Volvo lease - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By d. from denver - September 4 - 7:00 pm

  This car is very stealth; it performs way better than the image it projects. If you get into the turbo, it will leave most everyone else sitting at the stoplight. Very solid build quality so far (at 30k miles). Maintenance not too bad because the major ones covered under warranty, which they no longer do (cheaped out). Run synthetic oil most the time in it.

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  Upgrade - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By tevis - May 31 - 6:56 pm

  Ive only had this car for a few weeks but I love it. Selected it, narrowly, over a Subaru Outback Limited because of the extra rear seat room and trunk space. This car has a beautiful fit and finish, both inside and out. The controls are well laid out and ergonomic. It lacks good acceleration but the engine has real power on the highway. Its no sports car, but drives nicely, is quiet, and luxurious. After suffering through five years with an Audi Allroad that was a mechanical nightmare (just say no!) I am expecting a much better experience with this car. So far, so good.

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  Overall, Not Bad - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By revolver - May 9 - 2:46 pm

  Weve had Volvo sedans before, put this is our first wagon. Its a tank. I cant imagine a sturdier, more substantial vehicle. Its outstanding in rain and youre 100% confident in matters of traction and handling all the time. Amazingly comfortable overall. My issues? A perpetual rattle in the cargo area. Had it serviced, but the fix lasted only one day. Going back in again soon. Mileage? I had to shut off the display so I wouldnt cry- -long stretches on local roads at 6MPG. I probably average 16MPG overall. Would I recommend it? Yes, but think hard if youre mostly puttering around town because of the mileage.

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  Hating the payments - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By poor man Rey - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Way too many electrical problems for a car of this status. I did just had a wreck which was my fault. 20 mile/hr and did little damage to my car. Only killed one of my side panels if that tells you anything but absolutely destroyed the poor domestic car in front of me. My damages totaled 11,000!!! I was told that if my air bags deployed that would cost me an addition 5,000 to reinstall. I love my car and think that it is the sexiest set of wheels on the road. Boy but am I ready to finish up with these payments.

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  Love my XC70, can be expensive though - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By James Kaufman - February 28 - 4:10 am

  My father bought the car in 2007 for about $18000 with 60,000 miles on it. Personally, I love the car; it starts every key turn and is great in the snow. If you give it enough gas she will really get moving too! clocked about 0-60 in 8 seconds, not bad for 190,000 miles that it has today. the car is also super comfortable, leather seats and heating makes any drive awesome. The issues I have with the car are that we bought it used and the repairs. The previous owner towed with the car so we needed to replace odd things like the bevel gear. Since it is so old, it needs repairs quite often which are usually several hundred dollars. In conclusion, the car is really fun to drive, safe, can be $$$

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  04 XC70 - OK so far - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By mpurc - February 2 - 10:00 am

  Traded in Pathfinder for more quiet and something easier to get in and out of. Surprised to find XC wider and longer than PF when going into garage for the first time. Steering takes getting used to. Tranny rough at slow speeds in neighborhood (auto and manual). Excellent hiway car. Adequate power. Still playing with driving position - comfortable/heated seats a boon to a bad back. Getting 21 to 23 mpg.

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  A brand new XC 70 - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By Phil Labelle - December 18 - 8:56 am

  I got the car last week. Since then, it has snowed almost everyday. The car handles well in the snow and is very well balanced. So far so good! I will update this review later.