2001-2007 Volvo V70: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2001-2007 Volvo V70/XC70 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Brake performance
- Instruments/controls
- Acceleration (T5)
- Cargo room
- Interior materials
Cons
- Fuel economy (T5)
- Ride control (T5)
- Low-speed acceleration (T5)
Vehicle Highlights
Volvo redesigned its station-wagon models for 2001, on a slightly slimmed-down version of the full-size S80 sedan platform. The S70 sedans were discontinued, but Volvo continued to offer a C70 coupe and convertible. Station wagons were the company's best-selling models in the U.S. market. Riding a wheelbase 3.6 inches longer than before, the new body was 1.7 inches wider and 2.4 inches taller. Interiors boasted an extra inch of rear head room and 1.2 inches of additional front leg space. Base and GLT wagons were gone, as was the hot rod R-type. The new lineup included an entry-level 2.4T and high-performance T5 with front-wheel drive, and the all-wheel-drive XC (Cross Country). Except for the base model, all V70 wagons used turbocharged five-cylinder engines, in two different displacements, rated at 242 horsepower in the T5 and 197 in other models. Only an automatic transmission was available with the 2.4T, and it could be installed instead of standard manual shift in the T5 and XC. Traction control was standard on the T5 and an option for the 2.4T. Volvo's antiskid system was available for both. As in the previous generation, the SUV-flavored XC had 2 more inches of ground clearance than other V70s, as well as unique lower-body cladding, front styling, and interior details. All models had antilock all-disc brakes, front head/chest side-impact airbags, curtain window airbags, and Volvo's WHIPS system that moved the front seat rearward in a rear-end collision to minimize whiplash injury. A rear-facing third-row seat was available for all wagons, in a Versatility Package that also included a grocery bag holder, cargo cover, and cargo net. New options included a satellite-based navigation system and two types of alloy wheels (16- or 17-inch). Rivals included the Audi A6/allroad quattro, BMW 3-Series, and Saab 9-5.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Volvo V70 XC Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 7 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2001-2007 Volvo V70/XC70. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2001-2007 Volvo V70/XC70.
Year to Year Changes
2002 Volvo 70 series:
A new "regular" all-wheel-drive model, dubbed the 2.4T AWD, joined the lineup for 2002 with a standard suspension and trim. Volvo's antiskid system was available for all models except the base 2.4 wagon, and standard on the T5. Traction control was standard on all front-drive models.
2003 Volvo 70 series:
V70 2.5T AWD and XC70 got a power boost to 208 hp, up from 197. The sporty turbo T5 power was up as well, to 247 horsepower.
2004 Volvo 70 series:
A high-performance model highlighted the changes to Volvo's midsize sedan for 2004. Called the V70R, it had 300 horsepower, AWD, and a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Other changes for '04 include new cabin decor and the addition of Volvo's On-Call assistance system.
2005 Volvo 70 series:
Fresh styling details, available run-flat tires, and real-wood interior trim are among 2005 additions to the V70/XC70 lines. XC70s add a raised suspension and SUV-flavored appearance cues. Discontinued is the AWD V70 2.5T. T5 has a firmer sport suspension. Newly optional for all but the XC and R are run-flat tires on 17-inch wheels. For '05, V70s have a "waterfall" grille appearance, XCs an eggcrate grille, and both get revised headlamps, taillamps, and color-coordinated exterior details. Real-wood cabin trim replaces synthetic in optional Premium packages, and rear obstacle detection is a new option. No longer available is Volvo's On-Call Plus assistance system.
2006 Volvo 70 series:
For 2006, the V70 T5 with 247 hp has been discontinued.
2007 Volvo 70 series:
Cosmetic revisions and a standard antiskid system for all models highlight 2007 for these Volvos. Both get a subtle front-end restyle and revised interior trim for '07.
Our road test for the 2001-2007 Volvo V70/XC70 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2001-2007 Volvo V70/XC70 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2001-2007 Volvo V70/XC70 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
For everyday use, Volvo's 2.4T wagon is a good choice. The XC ranks as a sensible SUV alternative, but the T5 tends to ride too stiffly for the unexceptional handling it provides. Acceleration in base models is good once the turbocharger has an opportunity to begin delivering its boost. A test T5 wagon accelerated to 60 mph in a respectable 8 seconds. The R is quicker still, closer to 6 seconds 6 to 60. Engines suffer occasional turbo lag, but using manual-shift buttons with the Geartronic automatic transmission minimizes that lag somewhat. Engine aside, the automatic transmission is generally smooth and responsive. All engines require premium gasoline. As for economy, a T5 averaged 16.5 mpg while an XC managed 18.7 mpg. Road manners are responsive, but unremarkable. All told, the 2.4T wagon provides the best ride/handling balance. All models offer good grip and steering that's satisfyingly weighty and precise. With 8.2 inches of ground clearance, the Cross Country wagon has more body lean in turns than its mates, but substantially less than any true SUV. Most pavement flaws will be felt by occupants, but only large, sharp bumps register harshly. Braking is terrific, but tire drone is noticeable on most surfaces. Inside, these wagons look and feel much like the S80 "flagship" sedan. That means handsome furnishings, a relatively high steering stance, convenient gauges and controls, and ample space in the cushiony front bucket seats. Volvo's navigation system has a screen that rises from the top of the dashboard, but is actually hard to read in some light conditions. Visibility is generally good, though rear headrests interfere. Back-seat foot space is decent, and 6-footers have enough head clearance, but cushions are too short for best thigh support. Cargo space is ample and useful.
Value for the Money
Roomy and contemporary, solid and versatile, Volvo's latest wagons are the best ones yet. The XC furnishes appealing all-weather security and delivers some SUV-style attributes. We'd skip the stiffer-riding T5.
Roomy and contemporary, solid and versatile, Volvo's latest wagons are the best ones yet. The XC furnishes appealing all-weather security and delivers some SUV-style attributes. We'd skip the stiffer-riding T5.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Volvo V70 XC Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 7 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Volvo 70 series includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Volvo 70 series .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Battery:
Poor radio reception may be caused by a magnetic field created because the battery is located in the trunk and the positive battery cable is routed through the vehicle. Owners in Sweden who complained were offered a repair kit. (2000-01)
Climate control:
The climate control may cycle from full hot to full cold about every 10 seconds if the control module forgets its calibration and continuously tries to recalibrate itself. (2005-06)
Dashboard lights:
If liquids leak into the center console it can short the mode switch which illuminates the check-engine light. (2000-01)
None:
Alternator fails due to high heat or humidity and an improved unit is available. (1999-2002)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $615 |
| Alternator | $310 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,340 |
| Brakes | $750 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $850 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,410 |
| Exhaust System | $410 |
| Radiator | $345 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $450 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $245 |
Our price chart for this generation Volvo 70 series details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2007 | |||
| V70 2.4, 2.5T | $20,500-22,500 | $18,900-20,700 | $13,300-14,600 |
| V70 R | $26,700-28,200 | $24,800-26,200 | $17,900-18,900 |
| V70 XC | $25,000-26,500 | $23,300-24,600 | $16,500-17,500 |
| 2006 | |||
| V70 2.4, 2.5T | $17,500-19,300 | $16,100-17,800 | $11,200-12,400 |
| V70 R | $23,000-24,500 | $21,200-22,500 | $15,000-15,900 |
| V70 XC | $21,500-23,000 | $19,800-21,200 | $14,000-15,000 |
| 2005 | |||
| V70 2.4, 2.5T | $14,200-15,800 | $12,900-14,400 | $8,700-9,600 |
| V70 R | $18,500-20,000 | $17,000-18,400 | $11,800-12,800 |
| V70 T5 | $17,000-18,300 | $15,600-16,800 | $10,900-11,700 |
| V70 XC | $17,800-19,200 | $16,400-17,700 | $11,400-12,300 |
| 2004 | |||
| V70 2.4, 2.5T | $12,000-14,500 | $10,800-13,100 | $6,700-8,100 |
| V70 R | $16,000-17,500 | $14,600-15,900 | $10,200-11,200 |
| V70 T5 | $14,500-15,800 | $13,200-14,400 | $9,000-9,800 |
| V70 XC | $14,800-16,300 | $13,500-14,800 | $9,300-10,300 |
| 2003 | |||
| V70 2.4, 2.4T | $9,800-12,000 | $8,800-10,800 | $5,100-6,200 |
| V70 T5 | $12,000-13,300 | $10,800-12,000 | $6,700-7,400 |
| V70 XC | $12,300-13,600 | $11,100-12,200 | $7,000-7,800 |
| 2002 | |||
| V70 2.4, 2.4T | $8,000-10,200 | $7,200-9,200 | $4,100-5,200 |
| V70 T5 | $9,800-10,800 | $8,800-9,700 | $5,100-5,600 |
| V70 XC | $10,000-11,200 | $9,000-10,100 | $5,200-5,800 |
| 2001 | |||
| V70 2.4, 2.4T | $6,800-8,000 | $6,100-7,100 | $3,200-3,800 |
| V70 T5 | $8,000-9,000 | $7,200-8,100 | $4,100-4,600 |
| V70 XC | $8,500-9,500 | $7,700-8,600 | $4,400-4,900 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Volvo 70 series include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door wagon | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 108.5 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 185.4 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 71.0 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 58.6 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3366 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 72.8 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 21.1 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.3 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 38.9 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 42.6 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.2 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
In the 2.4T and XC wagons, a turbocharged 2.4-liter five-cylinder engine produced 197 horsepower, working only with a five-speed manual gearbox. Available with either manual shift or a four-speed automatic transmission, the 2.3-liter engine in the high-performance T5 delivered 242 horsepower. Base-model 2.4 wagons got a 168-hp nonturbocharged engine. In 2003, V70 2.5T AWD and XC70 got a power boost to 208 hp, up from 197 from a new 2.5-liter engine. The sporty turbo T5 power was up as well, to 247 horsepower. In 2004 Volvo added a 300-horsepower 2.5-liter turbo to the line in the R model. It came with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| Turbodiesel dohc I5 | 2.5 / 153 | 208 | 236 | 5-speed automatic: 20/27 | 5-speed automatic: 16.5 |
| Turbocharged dohc I5 | 2.5 / 153 | 300 | 295 | 6-speed manual: 18/24 5-speed automatic: 18/24 |
6-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I5 | 2.4 / 149 | 168 | 170 | 5-speed manual: 21/28 5-speed automatic: 21/28 |
5-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc I5 | 2.3 / 141 | 242-247 | 243 | 5-speed manual: 21/28 5-speed automatic: 20/26 |
5-speed manual: 16.8 5-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc I5 | 2.4 / 149 | 197 | 210 | 5-speed automatic: 20/27 | 5-speed automatic: 18.7 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Sweden
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Volvo 70 series include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2001-2007 Volvo V70/XC70 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2001 V70:
Under certain operating conditions, some cooling fans may overheat, potentially causing heat damage and rare possibility of engine-compartment fire.
2001 XC70:
A dirty throttle housing and/or inefficient software calibration may force the vehicle into limp home mode. Dealers will install the current software upgrade onto the involved vehicles.
2001:
Rear-outboard seatbelt-anchorage bolts may be loose, leaving occupants improperly restrained in crash.
2001:
The bolted joint that is part of the child-restraint hardware may have been incorrectly tightened, leaving occupant improperly restrained in a crash.
2001-02 V70:
A dirty throttle housing and/or inefficient software calibration may force the vehicle into limp home mode. Dealers will install the current software upgrade onto the involved vehicles.
2002:
The brake lights may fail to come on because of faulty brake light relays. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
2003-04:
The fuel pressure sensor located on the left end of the fuel rail may, at times, transmit an incorrect signal regarding the fuel pressure to the engine control module. The check engine light may then illuminate. Dealers will replace the fuel pressure sensor.
2007:
The label denoting the tire and loading pressure information is incorrect. Dealers will mail the correct labels free of charge.
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