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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  Best AWD Wagon on the Market - 2007 Volvo XC70
  By langloj - May 25 - 6:23 am

  The car is smooth and responsive, making for a great handling vehicle. It had surprising acceleration for a 5 cylinder. The leather seats are the most comfortable I have ever had in a car. On trips, the longer I drive this car, the more comfortable it gets. The cargo space is enormous. The interior is well laid out and with the leather package and wood trim, very luxurious for a wagon. Best car weve ever had.

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  2008 Volvo XC 70 Basic - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By Hector Ingram - May 8 - 10:46 am

  Purchased new. Basic model with no options. Very comfortable interior, great seats, clear controls. Reasonable acceleration, sounds fine, smooth transmission. Average fuel economy for weight and off road capability. Well built and feels solid with lots of airbags. Plenty of space. Floaty ride, but comfortable and seems reasonable for a cross over.

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  Fun 0n the roads of Sweden. - 2007 Volvo XC70
  By Stowe - May 7 - 8:10 am

  Love our Volvo, especially around Sweden. Safe, comfortable, sturdy. What`s not to like!

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  Love It! - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By RRRatman - April 30 - 10:00 am

  This is one incredible vehicle. Indiana to British Columbia via the Northwest and back through the Southwest; to Florida via North Carolinas Outer Banks and back; then round trip to Canadas Martitme Provinces and all this within 14 months; not a single problem 12,000 foot mountains and 118 degree deserts did not budge the engine heat indicator off of normal; gets 29.4 mpg @ 65 mph; superb seats; the turbo 5 more than matches any V8 ever owned (including the 60s powerhouses); its like driving a Bradley Fighting Vehicle with agility and comfort.

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  Safe, luxurious and sporty - 2010 Volvo XC70
  By cnagappa - April 3 - 10:00 am

  Traded in my 02 Land Rover Freelander for the "Premium" Volvo XC70. Here in Canada the 2010 XC70 is sold in three basic trims: Base, Premium and T6. The Premium version includes the full climate package, BLIS, Bluetooth, HomeLink, leather upholstery, safety lock, power tailgate, motorized passenger seat, front seat and other premium features. It does not include the T6 or adaptive suspension. Weve had our XC 2010 for 6 months and so far it has performed admirably. Compare to the old Land Rover, this vehicle handles admirably. My only grouse is that the 3.2 sounds gruff and unrefined when climbing hills, otherwise its pretty smooth.

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  The best balanced X-Country and comfort - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By Alex - March 30 - 3:10 pm

  Supurb and comfort, fun to drive are the outstanding feeling about this safest car in the world. Having SUV feeling with a little bit hard driving in the off-raod fields, its quite easy and comfort on high-way and even at a jammed urban environment on the other hand. Perfect balance of comfort and fun to drive is the superiority of this car which is never realized by other manufacturers such as BMW, Merceds and Japanese averagers.

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  Excellent family vehicle - 2008 Volvo XC70
  By George Fox - March 25 - 7:46 am

  Excellent safety features. Handles well. Wife feels very good about safety and handling with the children. Good storage space in rear. Auto rear door an excellent feature. Even though the gas mileage is marginal I believe the overall car features offset that and make it an excellent family vehicle.

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  Great but for one big thing.... - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By SWS - March 24 - 2:00 am

  There is a bunch to like about the XC70. Great interior, comfort, safety, fit & finish & so on. The one piece that absolutely doesnt fit is the engine. The 5 cylinder is noisy and rough , simply inappropriate in a car that typically stickers out around $38K. Drop the drive train from my Acura TL-S into the Volvo and you have a home run. Why is Volvo married to that #$%&# 5 banger?

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  The best car I have ever owned! - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By camnate - March 13 - 9:27 pm

  Ok so I baught this vehicle from my brother with 75k, he bought the vehicle with 51k and he had all scheduled maintenance done. I have kept up with the majore ones. I have no idea about the previous owner. This car has never left me stranded and rides like a dream! my wife loves it! 130k miles and still runs/rides perfect. There are the occasional minor fixes that will set you back a few hundred but really. as the car gets older even an extra $1200 year minor fixes is well worth it.. you can drive it for 20 years! The engine is iron clad (2.5 5cy) and it still drives like its on glass. tires are a pain, and MPG could be better but treat it right and will pay dividends!

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  The very best and safe to boot - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By mta - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Only bad feature is radio. It would be nice if the car had the option of a high pressure turbo.