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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  My 03 XC/70 - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By VersitileTransport - October 14 - 10:00 am

  2nd owner, got the dealer history before I purchased...no major problems to start. Added heavy duty sways & end links (really helps handling), cool-air intake, chipped it, 3" down pipe, race-cat and 3" all the way back. Its now a fast, TURBO, versatile SUV. I can beat most any ricer before it get crazy and ride in style, haul my drums in any weather. SAFE! Flush your trans now, change oil every 3k, change timing belt, pinion gear oil. Do as much schedule maint. as you can yourself. Check underneath for leaks, dont ignore warning lights. Better yet get a code reader. Ive had my share of little PIA stuff but nothing I cant learn to handle. Stay away from the stealership!

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  Forget SUVs, Volvo Aces the Test! - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By superdve - October 10 - 2:00 am

  We own 6 cars; every car we own is a performance car INCLUDING the XC70. Were STILL too sporty of a family for a minivan yet we DO need to haul a couple of kids and their gear. "Smallish" 2.5 Low Pressure Turbo cant hang with my AWD, Turbocharged 535 hp S10 project but neither can a Viper! :) BUT, this thing will do a sub 8 second 0-60 blast in cool weather! We observed 27 MPG on a trip at speeds of 75-80 mph. My wife has a lead foot and averages 18.2 miles per gallon in city driving. Handling of the "hi rider" XC70 is not "Vettelike" but it is passable and very safe in an emergency situation. The seats are AWESOME!

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  Family delight - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Dhabi - September 15 - 2:00 am

  - a pleasure to drive; easy, silent and smooth. - a comprehensive large family car offering great room and outstanding safety. - remarkable power when pulling a heavy load (boat or trailor). - feels solid but not heavy to drive. - I am committed to car makers who are committed to sustainability in design and demonstrate an awareness of passenger, pedestrian and other road users personal safety and security in their design. - I have confidence in the history of the marque.

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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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  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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  Best car I have ever owned! - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By shiner42 - July 12 - 1:05 am

  I have always loved the way the XC70 has looked. Even now that I have owned it for about 10 years it still looks new. Yes I have taken care of the paint and plastic on the exterior. Yes I have tried to take care of the inside to. Yet I lived for three years where it got to 40 degrees below zero. The paint... Looks like new. Other than a few dings and scratches it looks great. The interior looks great except for the driver seat. I tried to take care of it with regular cleaning and conditioning but the leather cracked and now has holes in it. But other than that it survived the brutile winters. The all wheel drive is second to none. Made it to placeses even jeeps could not go. Great vehicle.

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  My little stylish Swedish utility tank! - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Justin - July 10 - 9:13 am

  What an amazing wagon!!! Bought new straight out of Jim fisher Volvo back in 2002 and have absoulutly loved it ever since!!! I bought it for the reason that we wanted an overall safe wagon for the kids, that was awd and still ready for adventure. This thing is an absoulutly tank in the snow!!! Even on some of the steepest and iciest conditions this beast has never let me down getting up and down the mountain constantly going around struggling SUVs and is even better with studs! For being an 03, it is ahead of its time with all the features throughout it. I mean it has rear facing seats in the back!!! I would highly consider picking one of these guys up and you will never turn back!

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  Great Vehicle! - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By Cottonwood - June 9 - 1:33 am

  I love this vehicle! Was a bit hesitant as I moved from a Mercedes E500 and thought Id miss the HP & luxury but the Volvo has far exceeded expectations. I drive through Colorado about 50K/year and with Blizzak tires, the Volvo is extremely dependable & secure. I will drive 600 miles in one day and finish refreshed & happy. Averaging 24 MPG on non-premium gas. Certainly not a race car - but you should know that going in. Two thumbs up. Only complaint, the key stinks.

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  Owner of Two XC70s speaks - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By mbrown - June 8 - 11:30 am

  We purchased 2 XC70s over a year ago and have only excellent things to report. Purchased the ext warranty on both. Had a problem with the transmission on one, but the dealer stuck with the issue and eventually changed the entire transmission for a new one, not a rebuild. Since then we have clocked over 50K each on both vehicles and have only had routine service done. I have run through snow so deep that it was at the top of my tires while hitting remote areas for cross country skiing and snow shoeing. Cars sit out all winter and both start at first crack of the key. Winter temps of -28C so far. A/C works great, sometimes above 40 C in Kamloops summers.

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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.