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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  V70 XC Volvo - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Joseph Bard - November 24 - 2:00 am

  A great combination of luxury and utility. Nimble and powerful, but practical (the built in booster seats, for example).

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  My first Volvo - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By puff - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This fits me like a glove, there is nothing I dont like about this car!! Even the dogs like their cordoned off kennel in back.

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  Good Car - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By OLDDOG - August 14 - 10:00 am

  This car is billed as a wagon, but it has the advantages of an SUV. The big secret or surprise is that it has almost as much ground clearance as the Volvo SUV (only .07 of an inch difference).

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  Great Value - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By Carfan111 - August 2 - 2:00 am

  After 2 weeks, everything is great. Love the sure footed traction, handling and looks. Very utilitarian companion.

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  My 2nd XC & Third Volvo - 2004 Volvo XC70
  By Steve G - July 8 - 10:00 am

  Bought the 2003 to replace my 2000 and boy am I glad I did. Although the 2000 was a really nice car, it does not compare to the 2003. Roomier interior and great looking exterior make it a great option over an SUV. After driving Pathfinders and Explorers for 10 years, I can not imagine going back to an SUV. Great in the snow (anyone who lives in the NYC area can attest to the winter we had) as well as dry pavement..

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  Good solid car. - 2006 Volvo XC70
  By donco6 - June 28 - 2:06 pm

  Ive had my Volvo XC70 for a year now and have had absolutely no problems. Its taken me up into the mountains many times - solid on snow packed and/or icy roads. All the features are convenient. Seat warmers are great! Lots of cargo room. Great car!

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  A beautiful wagon - 2011 Volvo XC70
  By jjf5 - May 10 - 10:50 pm

  We had wanted to buy one of these for over a year, and I had done extensive research. I initially wanted a V70, but wife wanted the AWD. I thought the base XC70 3.2 was too slow and inefficient, and wanted to see what happened after Ford sold Volvo to the Chinese. Im glad I waited. Not only were prices slashed, but quality and features improved. I picked up an XC70 T6 cheaper than last years base model. Volvo hired a good CEO, and the workers in Gothenburg are happier than they were under Ford. This combined with it being the 3rd production year should mean improved reliability, but well see. Ill post a long term update after 10000 miles.

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  XC70 Excellence - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Nicholas - April 19 - 2:00 am

  The new Volvo XC70 is a significant improvement over the 2002 model. I know. I just bought a 2003 after my wife had been driving a 2002 model over the past 14 months. The new car has a more powerful 2.5 liter turbo engine. The extra power boost makes the Cross Country a very responsive car indeed. Added to that, a completely redesigned all-wheel-drive system makes the vehicle a joy to drive in Bostons very snowy winter. That, added to supreme comfort and proven safety, make this car a wonderful choice. Why buy a full size SUV when a station wagon meets all your needs? The fuel economy of the smaller vehicle is good to have too.

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  XC70 kicks ass! - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By walterxc70 - April 19 - 2:00 am

  Moved to Syracuse 1600 mile roadtrip was effortless. Snow capability is outstanding. I bought the XC70 over the XC90 becuase I like the car handling. A "car" that needs rollover protection is is not a car.

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  Fun in Sun and Snow - 2003 Volvo XC70
  By Derek Johnson - April 19 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy my AWD V70 Volvo. It has been a pleasure to drive. We have had an ongoing problem with the sun roof leaking. The carpet has been replaced three times. The roof racks sold by Volvo whistle, which is a little disappointing. The dealership has indicated that they do not have a solution or a fix for the problem, which seems absurd. I have had to resort to rack pads to squelch the annoying hissing pitch. The performance in snow or icy conditions has been superb. Overall, it is a great car, a little underpowered, but fun to drive in either sun or snow.