Volvo XC70 (07 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 14 July 2011
If you're after the added security and traction of four-wheel drive, but don't want a large off-roader, then the XC70 is an ideal compromise. It is essential the V70 estate, but with extra ground clearance, added body protection such as larger bumpers and (on the majority of models) an all-wheel drive system. This makes it ideal if you live in a rural area or regularly have to tow trailers or caravans. It's also very capable in snow and ice. Like the V70, it's well-built with a spacious and classy interior, while the load area is usefully large. There's a good choice of strong engines including the D5 diesel while a front-wheel drive low-emission version badged DRIVe was introduced in mid-2009.
4 out of 5

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4 out of 5

Summary

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£29,070 - £41,660

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£12,590 - £32,088

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Surprisingly capable off road for an estate car, comfortable ride, impressive interior quality, low emissions DRIVe version

Limited engine choice, steering lacks feel, no specific off-road systems

If you're after the added security and traction of four-wheel drive, but don't want a large off-roader, then the XC70 is an ideal compromise. It is essential the V70 estate, but with extra ground clearance, added body protection such as larger bumpers and (on the majority of models) an all-wheel drive system. This makes it ideal if you live in a rural area or regularly have to tow trailers or caravans. It's also very capable in snow and ice. Like the V70, it's well-built with a spacious and classy interior, while the load area is usefully large. There's a good choice of strong engines including the D5 diesel while a front-wheel drive low-emission version badged DRIVe was introduced in mid-2009.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    4 out of 5

    "The XC70 was originally available with a 3.2-litre six-cylinder petrol along with the D5 diesel. The..."

  • Handling

    4 out of 5

    "One of the key advantages of the XC70 over a traditional 4x4 is its relatively low stance making it..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    4.5 out of 5

    "Like the V70 estate, the XC70 is spacious and has almost an inch extra knee room compared with the..."

  • Practicality

    4.5 out of 5

    "The XC70 is as practical as you'd expect a Volvo to be. The maximum boot capacity of 1,600 litres is..."

  • Equipment

    4 out of 5

    "All models are well equipped. The entry-level grade SE comes with six airbags, electronic stability..."

  • Behind the wheel

    4.5 out of 5

    "The XC70 dashboard has a more subtle, curvier design than before and also adopts other recent Volvo..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    3 out of 5

    "The XC70 isn't cheap to buy new, but it is very well equipped. It will depreciate very slowly -..."

  • Green credentials

    2.5 out of 5

    "For those who suffer with a guilty conscience for choosing a car built for off-road work, Volvo..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    4 out of 5

    "Volvo has long held a reputation for producing safe cars and spends time and money researching..."

  • Reliability

    4 out of 5

    "Volvos aren't immune from problems but they tend to perform well overall, and Volvo owners tend to..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    3 out of 5

    "Compared to its main alternative, the Audi A6 Allroad, you're more likely to be able to get a..."

  • Buying used

    3.5 out of 5

    "The diesels will be the most common model on the second hand market, especially the D5. The DRIVe..."

  • Selling

    3.5 out of 5

    "A diesel will be easiest to sell and on a car like this it won't hurt to have the factory-fitted..."

Gallery

  • Interior Volvo XC70 (07 on)
  • Exterior Volvo XC70 (07 on)
  • Exterior Volvo XC70 (07 on)
  • Exterior Volvo XC70 (07 on)

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Owners' reviews