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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  2-Month Review - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By R. Chester - August 19 - 10:43 am

  Have had my XC70 for about 2 months now. Gas mileage is better than our 2001 2WD Suburban, but at about 14MPG in town, its less than I expected. (Did read another review saying it should improve after 5k miles). Quick & very fun to drive; handles great; smooth transmission. Front seats are VERY comfortable. Back has almost no legroom. Im 64" and my 4-yr old son cannot sit behind me b/c theres NO legroom. Has great features like auto- up and down front windows; same with sunroof; cargo tray in rear; rain sensing wipers; Geartronic; trip computer; well laid out controls. Aluminum passenger grab bar gets HOT in sun. Not a good place for coins. My wife is coveting the car.

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  Had many car...this is the one!!!! - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By Stanley - August 1 - 4:36 am

  We must have had over 50 vehicles of all kinds over the years. This one is a tank. I feel so safe. Although we have only had it a few months, I could not be more impressed. I have yet to go through a winter but with a hill for a driveway it is very comforting to know I will make it up without any issues. Cant wait to try it in the snow. I feel very secure, rich, and cared for when driving.

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  Great All Around Car - 2007 Volvo XC70
  By Peter - July 23 - 11:33 pm

  I have owned my Volvo XC 70 for one year. In this time, I have come to really appreciate its engineering and design. It gives me excellent service and performance without any compromise. It handles beautifully in town and on the freeway. Its 5 cylinder motor with turbo gives me plenty of power when I need it. It has plenty of cargo space and its leather upholstery gives me the comfort I seek. I find it extremely comfortable to drive and its solid construction gives me a sense of security even when driving with heavy truck, and SUV traffic.

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  Volvo XC70 - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By midatlantic1700 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Of the last four Volvos we have owned this is the most versatile and fun to drive. Great car in any type of weather. The Volvo dealership is fantastic. All around very satisfied.

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  volvo2004awdwagon - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By louieg - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Excellent choice if you are avoiding the suv. Extremely comfortable, yet rugged. Handles beautifully on dirt roads in the country and stylish in the city.

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  Cant go wrong - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By Blake - July 19 - 5:26 am

  Easily the best car Volvo builds, and thats saying a lot. When it comes to value for the dollar, the "Cross Country" cant be beat. There are certainly more expensive and less expensive options out there, but factoring the whole package, its easy to see why this is such a popular car among middle-class and more affluent buyers. And there is no snobbery that goes with it, like some of those Bavarian makes. You cant go wrong choosing a Volvo "Cross Country".

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Richardrogo - June 20 - 10:00 am

  My prior car was a 1999 S80 on which everything broke, so I was hesitant to buy it, persuaded only by my test drive, its sleek appearance, all-wheel drive and of course the discount in February. Nearly 6,000 miles on this car and its the best car Ive every owned. Solid, comfortable ride, Volvo safety, damn good looking in black, and that advanced all wheel drive to keep me from getting stuck in the snow again. Whats more, this five cylinder 208 HP low pressure turbo wants to kick ass and I have to restrain myself at traffic lights. For me, this car offers more value and better looks than the SUV (sorry Volvo, this is the one you ought to promote)!!

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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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  Its worth it. - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Shoe - June 2 - 2:00 am

  Solid, powerful car. Took it on kayaking trip, with all the gear and four passengers thru lite off-road conditions, and it handled flawlessly. Incredibly comfortable. Std stereo/CD/tape system adequate. A/C whines, cargo cover chirps. Handling superb, particularly in non-ideal conditions. Rear seating easily converts to ample cargo room. Rear hatch is awkward to lift with an armload. Love this car and recommend it.

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  I love it! - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By Jon - May 25 - 5:50 am

  I own an Infiniti FX35 which I really enjoy driving (280 HP). I bought my wife the Volvo XC70 so she would stop driving my FX. Guess what? She can have the FX, I love the XC70! The XC70 rides very smoothly, has plenty of power, especially at high speeds, has incredible grip especially in snow, and has a huge trunk. I like the look as well. I bought the premium package and the interior materials are very nice, the stereo is great too. The gas mileage is average, however. We dont have kids but Ii have no problem driving a station wagon. I grew up in Europe and station wagons are in there. Here, there is a stigma about driving a station wagon. Great ride.