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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  Looks good, feels great, but... - 2011 Volvo XC70
  By an0nym0us - April 21 - 8:22 am

  Comparing to 2002 V70XC I traded in for it, its a mixed bag. Interior feels much more luxurious and refined; also appears somewhat roomier. Exterior design mostly improved on the previous generation, except for those silvery things around fog lights. Actually on mine - painted Electric Silver - they look OK, but on darker cars theyre outright out of place. The engine - 3.2 inline 6 - is nominally more powerful than the T5 on previous generation, but feels not as peppy as the older one. Gas mileage is not as good, too. The transmission feels more smooth-shifting and refined. The suspension is tuned more towards ride comfort rather than spirited driving style.

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  I love my XC70 - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By Rick Pascal - March 21 - 3:01 am

  First of all, its a beautifully styled car, very comfortable and great on gas mileage...27-29 highway and about 22 locally on regular gasoline. Excellent acceleration. Very spacious cargo area. Ive had mine since 2005 and have over 115,000 miles; I feel it will go another 115,000 easily. Virtually no maintenance problems. Service recommendations are at 7500 miles but I change oil every 3750 miles. Body is still in fantastic condition; no rust or wear. Leather seats have worn beautifully. I would recommend this car very highly. The only downside is that I wish there were a compass in the dashboard and a bigger place to hold sunglasses. Volvo offers a great deal for European Delivery, too. Theyll give you two round trip tickets to Gothenberg, Sweden plus a nights stay in a hotel.

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  I love this car!! I own a 2006 and 16! - 2016 Volvo XC70
  By Lisa B - March 7 - 5:58 am

  This car is comfy, rides like a dream, has great pick up and is spacious and easy.

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  Great car for a Salesman. - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By hycappy - February 19 - 9:06 am

  Outstanding road car. I drive to Maine all the time on business and it is a pleasure to drive. Im 64" and 260 lbs. Whoever designed to front seating did a great job. Great HVAC, reasonable gas mileage, fast, good in winter driving conditions. Just drove to Nova Scotia. 2200 miles. Car runs like a dream. My money well spent.

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  Excellent car! - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By tomas007 - February 12 - 5:16 am

  I love the interior of the XC70, and it handles extremely well in rough conditions (specifically with the nice winter we just had!)

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  My First Volvo - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By Gloria Newton - January 29 - 2:03 am

  I have now had my Volvo XC70 for two months. It replaced my longstanding love of Jeeps. I feel completely safe with the AWD and the interior and ride are superior. The car is extremely well appointed and comfortable with many extras as well as many safety features not standard on other vehicles.

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  Some problems, but overall very nice - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Tedmom - January 2 - 10:00 am

  We just went in for our 7500 mile check up and are overall very pleased with the car. It is very comfortable to drive and there is excellent front passenger leg room. We had a brake problem early on that was fixed under warranty. The most annoying thing about the car is an ear deafening acoustics problem that occurs with just the sunroof open on the highway or when only one of the side windows is open. Another problem is the glare on the front window from the taupe dashboard which makes it difficult to see without the reflection of the dash in full sun.

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  great, but.... - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By BR - December 23 - 7:00 pm

  This is my second xc70. The first one (2003) was a lemon; I gave another try to a newer model with a dealer-backed 100k warranty. Its been great, but.... now at 75k, Ive had two sets of tie rod issues again, and Im starting to wonder how many repairs Ill be facing after 100k. The design, comfort and performance of this car are outstanding. In exchange, you will be buying a very touchy and expensive car to maintain. My advice? If you dont mind spending all your discretionary income on car repairs and $$$$maintenance, and you live near a Volvo dealer, youll love this car. If you live in big snow country like I do, its amazing!

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  A True Joy - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By dvalls - December 21 - 2:00 am

  This is Volvos best wagon ever. There is no road noice at all, it handles exceptionally well, and all the instruments are easy to see. The wagon is beautiful to look at and has a fabulous sound system. I cant say enough good things about this car.

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  XC - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Alpharetta - November 26 - 10:00 am

  We purchased a XC wagon for safety and reliability but its been in the shop 7 times in 12 months, one time to replace the airbags which had malfunctioned! Most repairs have been electrical issues. Very fun to drive and front seats are ultra comfortable. The back seats are not comfortable and there are no cup holders unless you use the front middle console. Backing up is difficult due to low seats/narrow windows = poor visibility.