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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  Volvo - For Life - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By VolvoXCdriver - December 31 - 12:31 pm

  I loved my 2005 Volvo XC70. Everything about the car screamed quality. The swedes know how to build a car - the leather on the seats is very thick, very little plastic is used, and metal covers the exterior of the car. As much as I loved the car, I did have some issues with it. 1st, the siren went out and caused the sunroof to stop working (if you dont believe me, google it), and the check engine light came on once because the gas cap needed to be replaced. Neither of these issues cost very much money to fix, however. The car did have a little over 100,000 miles, so a few repairs are acceptable since Volvo cars will outlast any others if you take care of them. The other thing that I didnt like about the car was its fuel economy. I was averaging 21 MPG - might as well get an XC90. This car is really for those of us who dont buy into the SUV craze, but still need a light off-road vehicle with plenty of cargo space. The thing that really won me over on Volvo was safety. I know that in my XC70, I can rest assured knowing that I drive the safest car in the world. Look up "Volvo saved my life" and read the stories (CAUTION: You will never be able to drive another non-Volvo car if you do this :) I got a great deal on this car so I only bought it to re-sell it, but I ended up falling in love with the car. I would recommend the XC70 to anyone - in fact, I am buying a 2006 XC70 to replace my 2014 Camry Hybrid.

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  Great car - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By Jerry - December 24 - 9:09 am

  180000 miles love car in snow plenty of power on highway bought new2015 now have 2 xc70s

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  Excellent Value, great performance - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By Catherine - December 21 - 4:50 am

  We live in Germany and regularly drive on the Autobahns in the XC70. Weve even had it up to 122 MPH while late for a flight and it is rock solid. Vehicle noise is pretty low compared to our old Tahoe and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Been skiing in the Alps and had no trouble manuevering in snow, the Winter feature works great. Pirelli Scorpion STR tires are worth the money. The only thing I really dont like after all is the rain sensing intermittent wipers-- it never seems to be the right amount of wiping for lower speeds and light drizzle. Ive been hit by a motorcycle and Ive backed into a post and the repairs were expensive, but car was not totaled, unlike my friends cars.

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  Almost did not happen - 2010 Volvo XC70
  By Ben Makowski - December 9 - 2:30 pm

  We were looking for a weekend hauler for our Golden Retrievers and were all set to pick up a new Outback. Over the weekend waiting for the Subaru to arrive for delivery I was on line and saw the XC70 and then saw the amazing deals on this amazing wagon. Monday morning first thing went to Capital Volvo and told them about the Subaru and then asked them to show me why I should change my mind and all I had to do was simply drive this car, no comparison at all the subaru, it excelled in every aspect. It is more "premium feeling and so far we have had only 2 weeks but are very happy of our purchase. Me and my "significant other" both drive new MBs but we argue who gets to drive the Volvo.

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  Dont leave without extended service con - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By bakerman - November 18 - 1:43 pm

  I bought my used 2003 XC Volvo with thee highest of hopes!! Aaarrrrgh, my bad. Most comfortable car that I have ever driven and great in the snow but.... The ever so slight noise that I didnt recognize was the AC going bad, which of course, went bad just as my used purchase warranty expired! Boo, my bad again, I didnt purchase an extended warranty. Next, my car computer went bad so the cluster wouldnt quite giving me messages. This was a few months later!! Im up to ~$3000 in repairs and I havent owned the car for a year yet! I talked with the shop service manager. He talked like this should be common knowledge about Volvos! He said that his the same problem..it was a 2006 XC!

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  tire sensors - 2007 Volvo XC70
  By stella - October 24 - 5:36 am

  Only owned vehicle for 3 months, Applied winter tire package. There was a problem with the auto accepting the sensors. Dealers could not find out why. The sensors were removed and now have winter tires . They will refund me for the ??sensors??? Car drives well in snow.

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  Its a wagon... WOW - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By JAF IV - October 18 - 2:00 am

  It is the best cross over car/suv I have ever driven. I love the AWD and the handling is fantastic. The fact that it is a wagon is forgotten once you are behind the wheel.

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  Great Vehicle - 2007 Volvo XC70
  By Yuri - October 13 - 8:10 pm

  I owned this wagon for about 9 months and made about 16,000 miles. Had a few long trips (2,000-4,000 miles). I love this vehicle! It’s very reliable, especially in complicated driving conditions. Well, Volvo is known about this, but this car is exceptional. I love to it on sharp bends, especially on wet road. So far I could make anybody in this conditions feel absolutely safe. It took my wife quite a time to trust this car for she used to drive a family sedan. She simply could not believe that the car can do such things. I’ve tried to convince her to use it for me to be nor worried about her. The seats are excellent. I’ve some problems with low back but I can easily drive it.

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  Volvo Engine Seizing due to sludge - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By BeetleBaby - October 10 - 10:16 pm

  My Volvo wagon was ok until my engine SEIZED from sludge buildup at only 49000 miles. I had ALL oil and maintenance done 100% at the dealership and per their schedule This could be a problem with them all. Be very careful and ask about sludge and have them check for it. Having your oil changed regularly does not help, there is a problem with the engine running too hot in relation to the pollution control devices which basically cooks the oil to sludge.

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  Definitely a Volvo - Worth the $ - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By Northeast - October 9 - 1:16 am

  We changed our Passat wagon for a Volvo XC70 and will definitely keep it at the end of the lease. We have never owned such a sturdy and comfortable car. This car rocks! For a second car, we are considering another Volvo. You definitely get your moneys worth.