Engine range and fuel options

The Volvo V70 was fitted with a wide range of five-cylinder engines, starting with 2.4-litre petrol units producing 140 and 170bhp. A 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol offered 180bhp, while the 2.5-litre turbo developed 210bhp. The T5 model used a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine producing 260bhp, and the range-topping V70 R featured a 2.5-litre turbo with 300bhp. Thanks to four-wheel drive, the R was capable of reaching 60mph in just 5.6 seconds.

Diesel power was the preferred choice among UK buyers. The line-up included a 2.4D with 163bhp and the more powerful D5, also a 2.4-litre unit, which delivered 185bhp and matched the 2.4D’s fuel economy of 41mpg while offering improved performance. Bi-fuel models were also available, based on the 140bhp petrol engine and adapted to run on compressed natural gas (CNG). These were primarily aimed at fleet buyers with access to private fuelling facilities, as public CNG infrastructure was extremely limited.

An LPG-powered version was offered up until mid-2004. All engines were available with either manual or automatic gearboxes. By 2007, Volvo had discontinued the 2.4 (140bhp), 2.0T, and all-wheel-drive versions of the 2.5T and D5.

What’s it like to drive?

Most V70 variants prioritised comfort and safety over dynamic driving appeal. Handling was stable and reassuring, but rarely engaging – a deliberate choice that made them ideal for covering long distances with passengers and cargo in serene comfort. Electronic stability and traction control were standard across the range, helping drivers stay in control during emergency manoeuvres and limiting the potential for over-ambition in corners.

The V70 R stood apart, offering four-wheel drive and electronically controlled adaptive suspension, known as Four-C. While this system was optional on other models, it came as standard on the R and adjusted damping automatically to counteract pitch and roll under acceleration, braking and cornering. Drivers could select from three different suspension settings, ranging from soft to firm, tailoring the ride to suit their preferences.