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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  Refined "Wagon" - 2010 Volvo XC70
  By Marc L - September 29 - 7:56 pm

  Since our 1998 V70, some things have changed: Quiet, smooth ride, on-demand power. And some things havent: Best seats in the business, solid planted handling, and large cargo capacity. This wagon really does it all in a refined attractive package. The only Achilles heel is middling fuel economy. But thats a price worth paying for this fantastic "wagon."

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  Respectible ride - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By Effigy3 - September 26 - 11:03 pm

  My previous 7 vehicles were VWs so changing to Volvo was a leap. I had an S40 T5 AWD for 6 months before "surprise" 2nd child arrived. Traded for the XC70 for the added room. The ride on this car is excellent for its class. It feels more like a luxury sedan and less like an SUV. Compared to my previous Passats it feels much roomier which is great for our family of 4. The built-in DVD players are a big hit! (DVD+R work just fine.) Its exactly the kind of solid, thoughtful, classy vehcile that I would expect from a Volvo. I average 18 mpg under mixed driving conditions (22 mpg higway) using a responsible "kids in the car" driving style and 89 octane gas.

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  Fantastic Car - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By Jordan - September 4 - 6:33 am

  This is the best all-purpose vehicle you can find. It does everything, its fun to drive, its safe enough for babies and fast enough for dads. All-wheel drive is the best for all weather conditions Ive driven this car through storms, rain, snowstorms, cross country, etc. and never once felt out of control. The turbocharged engine gives a kick when you need it. It has nice clearance for hopping curbs or going offroad. The only semblance of a complaint is that the gas mileage is on the low side, we average 20 mpg in mixed use driving. But it still beats an SUV in that category. If you need an all-purpose vehicle, but want better reliability than an SUV, this is it.

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  My first impressions after 700 miles - 2015 Volvo XC70
  By Mitch Johns - September 3 - 12:53 am

  We purchased an XC 70 platinum T6 3 liter that had an EPA mpg at 17/24 mpg. We chose this car after purchasing two BMW X1s in 2014 and 2015. I was a bit worried about the mpg and that I would be consuming more gas and hurting the environment. Well after our first major road trip of 430 miles in CA from N. Ca, through Sacramento to Palo Alto, I was impressed. You have to know that this road trip is primarily major state and federal highways, on roads that are very bumpy, can be stressful, and very heavy with traffic. We obtained an overall round-trip gas mileage of 25.6 mpg with cruising speeds of 70-80 mph, and considerable stop and go on these interstates. Frankly consider this route to be one of the worst traveling itinerary that you could ever drive and put a car through. The best attribute of this car is the Volvo front car seats that are likely the most comfortable in a car. We purchased the car mostly for the front car seats as my wife has spinal issues that causes her great pain and discomfort about the third hour of a road trip. The seat comfort was the best of what could be expected given my wifes chronic aliments. I cannot say this for the back car seats as they are average, and the designers could have engineered more leg room for the rear passengers. Dont get the wrong impression, it is still better than the X1s that we have experienced. The auto runs smooth, plenty of acceleration, low road noise, and takes the highway bumps with little lingering memory. What I might be critical of is the steering as it is a bit light and you dont have intuitive feeling you get out of a performance car such as a BMW X1. The handling around curves is slightly above average, but you should slow down a bit if it is a tight curve as there is a slight body lean and response for you to take it more slower than a performance car. I have only 700 miles on the car and as you know, nothing is broken in yet, the engine especially. I will look forward to more (pleasurable) road trips and I anticipate that I will find the car much more superior and also expect to obtain slightly higher mpg on long road trips. There are no available safety ratings for this model, but it is a Volvo. The exterior body is very solid and the finish is excellent. We have learned much after purchasing three new cars in the last 24 months and anyone purchasing should do their homework in regards to invoice price, reviews of the car handling, etc.

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  4th Volvo-Favorite By Far - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By Fred and Linda - July 30 - 10:00 am

  We love this car. Bought it to replace 1994 Volvo 850 wagon. Very quite, looks great (ruby red) and fun to drive. We have owned Volvos for 20 some years and they just keep getting better. If you are in the Seattle area, dont be afraid to check out Topping Volvo in Olympia. We paid thousands less than Seattle area Dealers wanted.

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  Volvo XC70 - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By DMR - July 18 - 2:00 am

  This is hands down the best vehicle I have ever owned. We chose Volvo because of their reputation for being so safe. I especially love the XC70 because I am only 52" and most SUVs are too big for me to handle. This car is the perfect match for me. I sit up higher than I do in a regular car, I have the back room of an SUV, and I dont have to worry about rollover issues. Plus the AWD is great!

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  Best of Volvo - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By hcsaun - July 13 - 5:30 pm

  This is my fourth Volvo, which I have been buying new since 1996. My 2005 XC70 is by far the best of all. Its handling is what I like best, so solid in its gripping of all road surfaces. Seating and interior space are top notch. I currently have 30,000+ miles and have not had any maintenance issues, other than those scheduled!!

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  Great Alternative! - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By MicMadden - June 29 - 2:00 am

  We have had gas-guzzling Range Rovers and Suburbans prior to our Cross Country and we really appreciate the total functionality of this wagon. It took us through a blizzard, navigating unplowed roads with 24 inches of new snow without a problem. In fact, we could not think of another car we would rather have been in. It is very comfortable and has good road manners. It is attractively styled if you select the right color to offset the racoon mask front cladding. Why pay a premium for the XC90? I guess if you need a 7 seater it might make sense.

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  Great Ride - 2011 Volvo XC70
  By dronepro - June 16 - 5:06 pm

  You know when you really like a car and you wish you had it. But, you wish its as good as you expect it... This is, it blew me away. Probably the finest, most fun ride.

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  Soccer mom car does me proud - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By tenmiler - June 12 - 8:40 pm

  Im sorry to be leaving the lease on this car. Its been fantastic, with nothing going wrong other than a turbo boost that was fixed under warranty, and I had never noticed it. This car is GREAT in the mountains, with the turbo at high altitude being a gem. The AWD could use the stability control, but I felt safe in this car. Its no sports car, but its comfortable, quiet, and reliable. And Im not a soccer mom!