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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  2005 Volvo XC70 - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By rtkcwhite - July 5 - 8:00 am

  The handling and comfort of this vehicle has surpassed our expectations. We traded a Suburban for this ride and we were worried about the reduced cargo space and to our suprise it packs vey nicely

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  Update to an earlier review - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By an update - July 3 - 3:26 pm

  I loved the car. At first. Then it broke. A lot. Eventually even Volvo gave up and gave me my money back after 15 months. I really did like driving the car when I could. But it was a lemon.

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  Nice Car - 2010 Volvo XC70
  By js - June 29 - 3:03 am

  Bought my XC70 a few weeks ago. Overall very happy with the car, smooth drive, lots of space, good safety features, clean and simple interior design, very comfortable seats and excellent visibility. Handles very well. My only criticism is the less than impressive fuel economy. Base engine is also a little sluggish at the lower end. Seems to perform much better when higher octane fuel is used. Solid family car.

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  Nice car - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By Rick - June 26 - 3:26 am

  This is a very comfortable car . the gas mileage is ok for this size engine and all wheel drive.

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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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  They got me "For Life" - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By priusdriver101 - June 8 - 12:34 am

  I got an excellent deal on this XC70. The ride, seat comfort, power, and space make it the perfect vehicle. I only owned it for 1500 miles (It was an investment), but I am now sold on Volvo. I did have some issues: The siren stopped working (sunroof stopped working too because of this (weird, I know), and the timing belt needed to be replaced. Many people would say that wagons are lame, but this car has POWER. Fuel economy is just like any other Crossover SUV. The style is awesome. I wish mine had the Third row jump seat. And the nav. Great car. I have fallen for them, and now they have me "For Life"!

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  better than most - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By mabess - June 7 - 10:00 am

  XC is a very nice car. Electrical not Volvo forte- three times in to fix door locks which locked for no reason- dealer claimed it might be loose change in my pocket! Scorpion tires must go-very poor wear. Steering is too loose. With that said, Im picking up my new XC 04 end of month!

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  Great Compromise - 2010 Volvo XC70
  By Mark - May 29 - 2:00 am

  Replaced Volvo S60 T5 (250 hp) and Lexus LX-450 (inline 6 at 218 hp) with 2010 XC70 T6. Key features: rear seat that folds into flat floor for transporting dogs, drivers seat I can sit in for an hour without my back hurting (sadly the reason I couldnt go with Audi), acceptable performance with 281 hp engine, nice mix of luxury features like highway manners at 90 mph. Delivered on all of the above at what seemed like a very competitive price compared with functionally equivalent vehicles from other manufacturers. Biggest drawback is having to refill gas tank so frequently.

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  Overall Excellent - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By BrettW - April 29 - 6:30 am

  Overall, this vehicle has been excellent. I purchased it with 10,000 miles on it and have added another 12,000 in the past 9 months. The car handles snow like a champ- in fact much better than the touted Subaru all wheel drive system (I traded in a 2007 Legacy for this car). It is slightly underpowered off the line, but at 55 miles per hour and above this car has plenty of torque to pass on tough Colorado mountain passes. The interior design and quality is excellent, and the seats are everything you expect from a Volvo. They wholeheartedly live up to their expectation. Only issues have been a few rattles and squeaks and a defective speaker that the dealer solved.

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  Versatile Wagon - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Corvallis - April 14 - 10:50 am

  Volvo XC70 was a huge upgrade for us - more safety, more comfort, more space, more reliability. My wife and I still really like this car. We justify the expense by having it as the only regular driver. Also more cost to purchase and I dread the first major repairs given the Volvo reputation. Friends say "expensive to fix, but worth fixing". Mileage is good for AWD, but the 99% use pattern as a commuter/road car makes the AWD hard to justify. Hope to use AWD more often in future. Great road trip car, very comfortable. Get about 20-22 mpg city/~26 mpg hwy. So far (over 4 years) havent had major mechanical problems. Hoping this car lasts a long time - shooting for 15 years.