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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  I Love the 05 XC 70 - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By gesteiger - March 27 - 12:43 am

  The 2005 Volvo XC 70 handles well, and is comfortable to drive. I love the heated seats and dual climate control. I also like all of the great safety features, including the all- wheel drive. I will probably purchase another Volvo in about 15 years.

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  Nice car, very good quality, great on long freeway trips - 2014 Volvo XC70
  By xira1 - March 9 - 11:06 pm

  I just turned in a 2011 Subaru Forester at lease-end, which I liked, for the 2014 Volvo XC70 (T6 turbo, AWD), which I now have driven 2,000 miles. There are pros and cons to both--the Subaru was a simpler car with less gizmos to go wrong, and in 3 years, nothing broke. It was also very fun to drive-- very responsive steering. But for long trips, I like the Volvo better-- in fact I am less tired after a long freeway trip because of the excellent driving position, superior visibility, great road-holding feel (it feels like it drives itself when going 75 MPH), great seats, blind-spot monitoring system, and a superior audio sound system. The cabin is also very quiet, and AC is powerful.

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  Worst Car Ive Ever Owned - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Bwana - March 4 - 10:50 pm

  This is my second and last Volvo. My first Volvo (V40) was excellent and when we decided to buy a a new car, we went for another Volvo. Big mistake!! Nothing but problems (two engine breakdowns within 24 hours of each other, carpeting cut wrong - had to be replaced, battery and headlight failure in 1st 6 months of ownership. Cheap interior componments which break - radio knobs, control of electric rearview mirrors. Integrated cell phone suddenly quit working. Stitching coming off seats and shift knobs, etc.

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  love the xc70 - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By drbones - February 15 - 10:00 am

  a reliable safe wagon. great for new england winters. awd but good mileage too

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  Consider the T6 if youre looking for an XC70 - 2011 Volvo XC70
  By abmwfan - February 11 - 4:54 pm

  I traded a 2009 XC70 3.2 AWD for a 2011 XC70 T6. The turbo engine significantly improves this vehicle: quieter, smoother, more than adequate acceleration and no noticeable reduction in mpg. The 3.2 is slow, buzzy/noisy and it gets lousy mpg (worst of all worlds). Youre always aware of the engine working at the limits of its capacity to move this heavy vehicle. And, while the T6s base price is $6k higher, it comes standard with AWD and premium/leather package which are nearly always added to the 3.2, so the "base" sticker price of the T6 and 3.2 are essentially the same before other options. Why not get the bigger engine?

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  Great ride - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By Jolene - February 1 - 6:10 am

  Not your typical wagon, not just another mom-mobile, fun, great storage and luxurious without having to drive a truck.

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  AWD Letdown - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By 2004 XC Owner - January 29 - 4:40 am

  Been a great car for commuting; awesomely comfortable. AWD power to rear wheels failed and no warning to alert driver. Discovered when son observed rear wheels not spining on icy driveway. Discovered after warranty expired; $2600 repair cost & 3+ wks @ dealer waiting for parts. All the while weve had 3 snowstorms in that time, which is one of the reasons I bought AWD. Not a happy camper. Weve been Volvo family for long time (3 V-series in household now); not sure Ill buy another. BTW, Volvo isnt only mfr w/AWD problems - do internet search on "AWD problems"

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  Very intelligent choice - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By san - January 20 - 10:00 am

  Excellent car at many, many point of vue. Versatile, very comfortable, excellent package (Sport for 2004), spacious, very good looking...

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  A Winner for the Long (and Large) Haul - 2005 Volvo XC70
  By Gail - January 16 - 5:16 pm

  I purchased this wagon for Michigan winters and it has been wonderful. I hate vans and SUVs so this was a great way to transport kids, snowboards, and weaving looms but then also have some dignity and style. It has been perfectly reliable and made winter driving a joy for this transplant from NC. The only change Id make is the digital clock that tends to speed up and is difficult to set exactly. The car doesnt get super mileage, but the tradeoff is a heavy, safe and sturdy vehicle that I will keep hopefully as long as my last Volvo (15 years!!) I highly recommend this brand/model and hope it is still a winner in 10 more years.

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  2004 Volvo XC70 - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By Tracy - January 16 - 1:10 pm

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned! Its safe, comfortable and has a fantastic stereo system. My 2 dogs are safe in the back section and it had all the bells and whistles without having to buy up. My lease ends next year and Im in the process of purchasing this vehilce early I love it so much, I highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a great alternative to an SUV.