Running costs and emissions

The V70 wasn’t especially cheap to run by modern standards, but some versions proved more efficient than others. T5 and V70 R models were thirsty, particularly around town or when driven enthusiastically, but other variants weren’t so bad. The D5 diesel in particular stood out – it returned similar fuel economy figures to the less powerful 2.4D but offered much stronger performance, making it the most rounded choice for long-distance drivers.

On average, the V70 range returned around 31mpg, which was acceptable for the time but no longer looks impressive today. Unsurprisingly, performance petrol models dragged the figure down, while the diesels helped balance the numbers. The 2.0T and 2.4 petrols sat somewhere in the middle, trading performance for moderate running costs.

Depreciation wasn’t as steep as for some mainstream rivals, although the V70 didn’t hold its value as well as it once did. That said, compared with non-premium estates of the time, used values generally remained stronger – particularly for high-spec or low-mileage examples with service history.

Emissions and tax

With average CO2 emissions across the range of 218g/km, the V70 was not a low-emissions choice. This placed many models into higher tax bands, especially the petrols and the more powerful variants. However, the wide availability of diesel models in the line-up did help bring the range average down. These typically produced lower CO2 figures than petrols with similar outputs, giving buyers a bit more flexibility when looking to reduce running costs or avoid higher VED bills.

That said, no V70 was especially green – and in low-emission zones, older diesels in particular may now be subject to additional charges depending on the area.

Reliability and durability

The V70 had a reputation as a rugged workhorse, and it generally lived up to that. Materials used in the cabin were hard-wearing and held up well over high mileages, while mechanical reliability was good – particularly on engines that were properly maintained.

There were plenty of electronic features on mid- and high-spec models, and with that came the occasional fault. Issues with ABS modules, DIM clusters and door electrics were not uncommon, but most were well documented and relatively easy to diagnose and fix. Importantly, the V70 didn’t suffer from widespread catastrophic issues, and many examples have covered well over 200,000 miles with only routine maintenance.

Engine recommendations

For today’s buyers, the standout engine was the D5 diesel, especially the 163bhp version available until 2005. It offered a near-perfect blend of performance, reliability and economy, with simpler emissions systems than the later 185bhp models. These early D5s were known for their long service life and fewer problems with EGR valves or DPFs – because many didn’t have them at all.

The 2.4 petrol (170hp) was also a dependable choice. While not especially fast or frugal, it proved reliable and well-suited to buyers who didn’t want the complexity of a turbocharger or the potential cost of diesel components. It was smooth, quiet and ideal for low-mileage or suburban use.

Buyers after a bit more performance could look to the T5, which offered strong power and decent reliability – though it required careful maintenance and regular servicing to stay at its best. The V70 R was best reserved for enthusiasts prepared to invest in upkeep, given the complexity of its suspension and drivetrain.

Unless heavily discounted, Bi-Fuel and LPG models were best avoided by private buyers unless running costs were a top priority and local refuelling infrastructure was available.