2001-2007 Volvo V70: Overview

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.