2000 Volvo 70 series: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Volvo's best-selling line gets a new model at midyear as it prepares to split into separate wagon and sedan/coupe series for 2001. The 70 series finishes the 2000 model year as the S70 sedan, V70 wagon, and C70 coupe and convertible. Sedans and wagons come with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. AWD automatically redirects power to the rear wheels when needed. C70 models are front-drive only.
Added at midyear was an SE model sedan and wagon, including standard leather upholstery and power driver seat. The V70 SE has an integrated child safety seat that's optional on other 70-series wagons. These wagons are still available, though Volvo has already introduced redesigned V70 wagons as 2001 models. The '01s are based on the platform of the company's flagship S80 sedan. This fall, Volvo will replace the current S70 models with the S60 sedan, also on a modified S80 platform. The C70 coupe and convertible will retain their current platform.
All 2000 70-series models use a 5-cylinder engine, ranging from 168 horsepower to a 261-hp turbocharged version.
Volvo labels the V70 XC AWD the "Cross Country" and gives it a raised suspension and other SUV cues. The C70 convertible has a power top and heated glass rear window.
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and front head and chest airbags are standard linewide, along with Volvo's WHIPS system, which is designed to move the front seatbacks and headrests rearward in a rear-end collision to minimize whiplash.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has a clear benchmark, it is the Acura TL (and its 2-door cousin Acura CL). The TL succeeds in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price.
But the Acura's not for everyone. We also recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored Audi A6, the comfortable Buick Park Avenue, the affordable and fast Infiniti I30, and the luxury-orientated Lexus ES 300.