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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  I am in love with my car - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By tsumami - February 5 - 6:35 pm

  I recently was lucky enough to find a 2004 Volvo XC70 2.5T AWD with only 71K miles , fully loaded and in near mint condition. I have driven Volvos in the past and have wanted another one for years, the XC70 has been on my wish list since that model became available. I was truly amazed by the fact that it handles like a sports car but has the practicality of a station wagon. It handles like a dream on bad roads and gets amazing fuel mileage for this type of vehicle. I recently took it on a road trip and got 31 mpg with the a/c on and driving 75 mph. It is obvious that the former owner took very good care of the vehicle so I was very lucky to find it.

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  our third volvo - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By tampafamily - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful Wagon! Easy to handle, grips the road, solid construction!

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  Best All Around! - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By R2D2 - January 9 - 11:10 pm

  From a stand-still, this car is a rocket, reminding me of the old "Tiger Paws" tire commercials. I can feel the grrrip when I am off-road pulling my pop-up camper, or in heavy rains...

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  VolvosBest - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By Hcsaund - January 7 - 3:00 am

  I have owned a number of new Volvos. The 05 XC70 is the best handling of all. Its a fun car. A step up from a station wagon, not as big as an SUV.

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  A Super Solid Choice - 2016 Volvo XC70
  By Robin Kirk - October 6 - 10:26 am

  My Audi A8 just turned 4 years old and 60k miles and I was looking for a comfortable, practical SUV/Wagon replacement that didnt cost as much. I drove the Q5 and Allroad, the BMW X3 and X5, and the V60, XC60 and XC70. Although an older design, the XC70 was just more comfortable, more practical and less flashy. It is powerful, quiet, extremely comfortable and handles reasonably well. The technology package is state-of-the-art and the IPhone App is just great. With just under 1000 miles in the past month, I am quite delighted. I was worried that "trading down" from the A8 would be painful, but am really quite pleased. The fuel economy isnt too good, but with current gas prices, it doesnt hurt too much. I would strongly recommend this car.

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  Solid like always - 2009 Volvo XC70
  By rovermark - October 2 - 12:30 pm

  Very nice car overall - the T6 is a wonderful engine. The car is very solidly built, very comfortable, quite, upscale in interior material. Also I really love the fact that Volvos are a class by themselves - not the common snob badge that is Mercedes and BMW that people buy to satisfy their egos and that every Tom, Dick and Harry has. Good car all around - and this is from someone who actually owes it.

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  Cross Country - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By Jon - August 11 - 1:40 pm

  Outstanding. Have been cross the country with it when we moved from Colorado to NY. Very secure in the snow and all other conditions. Lots of room for everything.

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  160,000 and counting! - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Jason - July 27 - 6:22 pm

  Bought new-ish in 2004 with 2600miles, normal up keep and maintenance. No real issues till about 94,000miles; some electrical bug hit and took 3 trip to Volvo to get it right. People, change your fluids and do the recommended maintenance on your vehicle and you should have no real issues. I have 164,382 miles as I write this. My wife & I will be getting another XC70 after tax returns, we will keep this one for our daughters first car.

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  Cross Country improvement - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By jfmakrp - July 24 - 2:00 am

  This is a remarkable improvement over the last model type. The handling is agile and sure. The cabin is comfortable and roomy. The booster seats work terrifically for our 2 girls (we were thrilled to be rid of our portable booster seats). The car tackled this snowy winter without a single skid or slide. Excellent on long trips.

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  XC 70 is the best - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By debbie - July 11 - 8:20 am

  This car is comfortable and easy to drive. I feel safe in it and we can haul most anything in the back. It is great on long trips. It is not like a huge SUV but you get the same feel as an SUV without the bulk. I dont feel like Im in a station wagon either. It is the best of everything.