2008 Volvo XC70 vs. Its Competition

Meta Rating 8.2 out of 10

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Jul 22, 2008

The 2008 Volvo XC70 is very similar in size to Subaru’s Outback, another wagon that adds ground clearance and enough off-road ability for deep snow or rutted trails.

Compared to the XC70, the Outback starts at a much more affordable price, and while its base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides only modest performance, the Outback feels sportier than the XC70 with either the turbocharged or six-cylinder engine.

Other alternatives to the XC70 are mid-size crossover vehicles—those that pair the tall body of an SUV with the underpinnings of a car, such as the Lexus RX 350 and Acura MDX.

The RX 350 and MDX are both very refined with a smooth ride and good handling; the MDX feels a little sportier behind the wheel, while the RX 350 is the choice for those looking for high-tech features.

All of the vehicles mentioned have very good results in crash tests, with the MDX designated an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2008.

2008 Volvo XC70 Browse Used Listings	2009 Subaru Outback Browse Used Listings	2008 Acura MDX Browse Used Listings
Quick Specs
Meta Rating
8.2 The 2008 Volvo XC70 brings an extra dose of real off-road ruggedness to a wagon that’s comfortable and spacious but not all that sporty.	7.2 The 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback boasts more toughness than most wagons and is a good, practical alternative to tall, ungainly SUVs.	8.8 The 2008 Acura MDX has a little more passion than most larger SUVs, with no less practicality.
MSRP From
$36,775	$22,295	$40,195
Gas Mileage
15 MPG City / 22 MPG Hwy	17 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy	15 MPG City / 20 MPG Hwy
Engine
Gas I6	Gas 4-Cyl	Gas V6
EPA Class
4WD Sport Utility Vehicle	Mid-Size Station Wagon	4WD Sport Utility Vehicle
Style Name
4dr Wagon	4dr H4 Man	4WD 4dr
Drivetrain
All Wheel Drive	All Wheel Drive	4 Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity
5	5	7
Passenger Doors
N/A	N/A	N/A
Body Style
5dr Wagon	4 Door Wagon	4 Door
Transmission
Automatic,	Manual	Automatic w/OD