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 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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  Safety First - 2016 Volvo XC70
  By FirstVolvo - May 12 - 12:27 pm

  Except for the fact that this unit must have some infrared sign saying Hit Me in it, I am actually thrilled by the purchase. At 600 miles, before the first installment was due, a deer jumped in front of the car while it traveled 60 MPH. Front airbags deployed and car brought itself to safe stop. Two occupants, including a 93 y.o. man, climbed out unscathed and without post accident issues. Volvo safety operators immediately called the car and summoned police, EMT squad , and fire truck. Out of state repair at Volvo dealership in Syracuse NY was exemplary. Now with 13,000 miles, the car was rear ended by 1 ton pick up truck with dual rear wheels. XC-70 bumper and hitch took brunt of impact. Volvo drove home, but offending pick up was not so lucky. Volvo hitch saved much rear end damage and transferred much of the impact to the colliding vehicle. Dealership service in two different states has been excellent. This is an extremely safe and comfortable vehicle, although I could do without further safety system tests.

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  Good off road car - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By Cross - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Cars Handeling is awsome, it can take me any where, i go skiing no problems there and also bush bashing and it does me well

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  More than happy - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By Paul U. - March 18 - 9:40 am

  Just upgraded my 08 XC70 with a new 08 XC70. Added more options, like Dyna audio, BLIS, Adaptive cruise and 17" wheels. Chose Black/Black instead of Oyster/Tan. It feels like I am in a completely different car. Where the other one was nice, this feels more like a luxury automobile. I am so much happier with this car. My first was an early production and this one seems to be tighter, put together better and has a much higher quality feeling to it. I put over 12K on my last one in over 4 months and never warmed up to it. I can see keeping this one for much longer

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  Lucky lucky Lucky - 2009 Volvo XC70
  By London Kiwi - February 26 - 10:16 am

  Lucky enough to live in the Uk, so bought a 175Hp Diesel 2wd variant. lose the all-wheel drive, but gain excellent fuel economy (average 38MPG with mostly around town driving) still have the luxury touches (Leather upholstery, heated seats, build in sat-nav etc) Love it love it love it

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  I like this car - 2011 Volvo XC70
  By Albert Sokol - January 13 - 10:06 pm

  It has 70,000 miles on it. Otherwise it is great. It is perfect for sports (kayaking, hiking, skiing, biking). And for family and carrying stuff and it is very peppy. Good in even deep snow.

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  Beautiful new XC70 - 2016 Volvo XC70
  By AnnetteW - December 12 - 4:21 am

  Love my new Volvo XC - after driving my 2001 V40 with over 172,000! Before buying also considered a Subaru Forester and Subaru Crosstrek. What sold me on the Volvo was the longer warranty period - 4 years/50,000 miles; 12 year rust protection - I live in Western Massachusetts where they salt and sand profusely in the winter; and the alloy wheels. The interior is so luxurious to me and the people at Gengras Volvo in East Hartford gave me the best deal compared to 2 other Volvo dealers. I wont really know how the AWD does in winter because I just got the car - so far the handling is stable; and because the wheelbase and size are larger than my old V40 I am adjusting to how it handles with parking and taking the curves - still breaking it in with only 302 miles so far. The other thing that sold me was the cargo design and layout - my goal is to get to some National Parks to camp in the future - and the 250 horsepower and ability to tow were also part of my decision. And I love the turbo - my V40 has such great pep - and I have loved that capacity. The XC70 does weigh more - so havent tested the pep of the turbo yet - still being cautious as I adjust to the new height - but love being able to just get in the car - rather than have to lower my body as I did in my V40. And I just get out - so getting in and out is pretty neutral. Love the proximity package and can see that when my hands are full it will be a blessing; the tailgate with auto up and down - fantastic! And the flat trunk - great for tailgating and picnics. All the new technology - navigation; phone; etc. - I am still learning how to use this - so cant really make a call on this yet - plus this stuff didnt exist on my 2001 V40. And have to get the new garage door opener programmed yet - thats how new it is to me. One year later - and I still LOVE my new XC 70!! Currently, I have over 18,000 miles! The XC70 was a real champion in the winter - I was on a small hill and the lead car at the stop light was spinning and going no where - there was one car in between - I backed up my XC70 and with my AWD went around both cars up the same hill and went on my way!! Then I drove through a blowing snow storm down to New Jersey and again, the XC 70 made the trip - it is wonderful and the AWD is fantastic! Before buying I had checked out the difference in the Haldex versus symmetrical drive - and I am convinced that the Haldex is the way to go. Over the summer I was also able to test out the turbo when passing on some two lane roads in North Carolina, Virginia, and Ohio and it has pep to get around when needed - on two lane roads I dont take time to pass - so the turbo punch does an amazing job and does it well considering the size and weight. Still leaning to adjust to the new features, but the back up camera is one that has helped so much - it is a great feature and the hands free telephone is wonderful. Other features that have come in handy - the remote start and the ability to lock the car from afar or to be sure its locked - especially after parking at the airport. Still adjusting to the higher center of gravity - especially as I was driving through West Virginia on some very long up and down curves - but it performed beautifully. The car has been to Northern Michigan, across part of Canada and New York state! When going across Canada - I was trying to figure out how to get the odometer to switch to kilometers per hour - still have to look that one up - so I turned to the fuel consumption feature where I based my best guess when it indicated I was consuming 100 kmh to estimate the speed I should be going. Compared to my old low road hugging V40 - it takes time to learn how to steer a car with a higher center of gravity and higher ground clearance - which I need for the snow - but as I am learning - the car is performing beautifully. And I am so happy with the service department at the Gengras Volvo dealer in East Hartford. One year later - and know I made the right decision to buy the XC70!! I cant believe they still dont make this car! Okay, my odometer now reads 28,921 - I have been racking up the miles. Still love my XC70 and it has taken everywhere I need to go up and down the East coast - summer, winter, fall and spring. And amazingly it still cranked this winter when the temperatures hung in the -10 to -18 range for three weeks in the morning. The folks at Geneva’s Volvo are still doing a great job for all me service and I couldn’t be happier with my “new” Volvo.

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  All in the family - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By Jai25 - December 9 - 2:00 am

  This is our first Volvo although other family members have over 100,000 miles on their Volvos. Weve had the car for almost one month and so far so good. I have a long commute everyday and I like getting into this car and crusing home after 12 hours on campus. Theres a nice safe secure feeling when youre inside the car. Its also one of the most recognizable cars on the road.