Volvo V70 - XC70 History
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The V70 and XC70 are Volvo's large station wagons. Although they're essentially the same, the V70 is packaged as a lower, more traditional wagon, while the XC70 has a slightly raised suspension and more lower body cladding, along with some other functional enhancements and rugged styling cues.
The Volvo V70 name started in in the late 1990s, officially replacing the 850 Wagon but looking virtually the same as its predecessor. Then for 2001 a completely restyled, redesigned V70 was released, with a smoother, more flowing design and mechanical underpinnings mostly shared with the S80 sedan. The base engine for was at first the 168-hp, naturally aspirated in-line five-cylinder engine, in the 2.4 model; 2.4T models got a low-pressure turbocharged five making 197 hp, while the sporty T5 got a high-pressure turbo making 247 hp. For several years, there was also a 300-hp, all-wheel-drive version called the V70 R.
Between these models, ride quality varies quite a bit, with base models on the soft, almost bouncy side and T5 models providing a very firm calibration that favors handling but might not be to the liking of those who live in the snow belt. Among these, our favorites are the 2.4T models (or 208-hp 2.5T models, from 2004 on), which offer the best compromise. All V70 and XC models, old and new, are cargo workhorses, with split-folding back seats that fold flat, and the cargo floor is a good deal lower than you might expect and easy to load. Front seats are excellent, while the back seat is a little more cramped for adults that the V70's generous exterior would suggest.
New for 2008, the latest generation of the V70 and XC70 is again based on the S80 sedan but this time is powered by a 235-hp, 3.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Although this engine provides adequate power for the wagon, it's neither as perky or as fuel-efficient as the engines it replaces. But Volvo made up for the dumbing-down of this wagon's powertrains by improving ride and handling and offering a long list of premium features. In addition to all the usual and expected safety features, a blind-spot warning system, adaptive cruise control, active bi-xenon headlamps, and a nice pop-up navigation system were all on the options list, along with a new Personal Car Communicator (PCC) keyfob system that could tell you if your vehicle has been broken into and even detect a heartbeat inside. TheCarConnection.com also recommends the excellent-sounding Dynaudio sound system—it's one of the best offered on any vehicle.
Other than various equipment changes and new wheels and trim, the V70 and XC70 have changed little in recent years. But if you want a new V70 you should act quickly. Volvo has announced that beginning in 2011 they'll all be XC70s.
