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:

• 

  Happy First Time Volvo Buyer - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By rheeper - October 12 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my XC 70 for 2 mths now, and very satisfied.

• 

  253,400 miles and still in the passing - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Chris from Norwood - October 6 - 6:00 pm

  253,400 miles and still in the passing lane! I love my 2003 XC70. I am almost at 300,000 miles and the engines performance is that of a young and vibrant one - the car is absolutely safe, an easy to handle vehicle and I Love my Volvo XC 70!

• 

  So little needed to make much better - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By rrscott - October 5 - 10:00 am

  A good practical car with much improved exterior design from earlier models. The lack of standard transmission is a serious mistake. The geartronic works but the lag in shifting and the difficulty in knowing what gear you are in is disorienting and limits performance. Driving is very civilized and secure, but suffers from lack of feedback to driver. The feeling is of a refined car being driven in accord with your commands by someone else, rather than a sense of the car being an extension of oneself.

• 

  Great XC again - 2009 Volvo XC70
  By Art Faul - September 27 - 11:43 am

  This is my fourth XC70 -- I current;y own one in the US and lease another in Europe. I have previously owned a 1999 (which had problems) and a 2001 XC70 which I picked up in Sweden on Volvos Tourist program. Contrary to the other review here, I am delighted with my new XC70. It is a solid comfortable ride. I did change the tires from the Continentals it came with to Bridgestones. Its a great addition to the lineup.. I do wish it had the Four C suspension. I got misled by the dealer about that.

• 

  Please keep running - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Costly repair - September 22 - 5:36 am

  I thought that I had found the right car and for all its good qualities, I find that it eats front end parts, tires, head light bulbs and is too complicated for the servicing dealer(not the point of purchase dealer). So far the car starts everytime, but with angle gear replacement, brake booster failure, and miscelleanous odds and sods, I have enjoyed the $8,000+ repairs covered by the extended warranty ZI bought. The fit & finish however are superb, the ride is the best barco lounger for the long haul.. nobody makes a better seat. Funny though, for all I was told about "Boron" steel when I bought the car, a recent hail storm has told me its not as strong as was suggested by the salesman

• 

  My most perfect ever -- of 8! - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By Rick - September 11 - 1:23 am

  Acceleration is weakened by the all - wheel drive somewhat, but imagine it on slippery roads! If the drag strip was wet, no one would beat it! Comfy for 10 hour drives, stylish...not a SINGLE complaint!

• 

  **No Issues Here** - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By **no issues here** - September 10 - 8:20 am

  I have been driving this car for about 3 months and so far it has been a great vehicle. I recently got back into by old car (00 Outback LTD) which my wife now drives and really noticed the comfort and smooth ride of the Volvo!! I live in CO and drive to the mountains nearly weekly. It does great getting up the passes. While not excessive the power is adequate to get around people around you. Fuel eco is really not bad if you do a decent amount of highway miles. If you stick to city only it sure does drop quite a bit. I am getting between 20-21 combined. Some issues with a the air blower (makes a clicking noise) but have not yet tried to take it in for a fix. Overall a great car!!

• 

  Workhorse Wagon - 2010 Volvo XC70
  By Bill Stevenson - August 31 - 10:53 am

  Volvo understands the needs of station wagon buyers. This is not a sports car, it is a workhorse. It pulls my trailer with no problem. It is easy to fold down the rear seat and haul a lot of stuff. Example, my long wheelbase recumbent bicycle slides in easily with only the front wheel needing to be removed. There are adjustable tie down points for securing a load in the back, a nice detail. The controls are intuitive and everything is within reach and easy to use. The ride is quiet and the car is sure footed in bad weather. Attention to detail is excellent. Everything works, switches and controls have a nice tactile feel. A surprisingly nice car everyone who has experienced it agrees.

• 

  2002 XC70 at 5,000 miles - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By powerpa - August 28 - 2:00 am

  Pretty nice car, underpowered, could use a 3L six with the turbo/intercooler. HP in 2002 was 197hp or so, about 207 or so in 2003. Not enough for a 3800lb AWD car. HP should be 225 and up. Highway handling at speed can be a little bit sloppy, but acceptable. Car is essentially 95% FWD and then AWD (sort of) when you need it. Tends to drift left a lot in the fast lane - Volvo says its because of road crown. I dont buy it. Comfortable highway cruiser for long trips on cruise- control (as long as you dont drive in the fast lane - pulls left).

• 

  Mountain Performance Vehicle - 2011 Volvo XC70
  By J jennings - July 28 - 3:01 pm

  High Performance Turbo enhances MPG and Smiles Per Mile. Volvos 2011 T6 engine makes it fun, fast and efficient.