2005 Volvo V70 and XC70: Road Test
2005 Volvo V70 and XC70 ▼
- MSRP: $29,130 - $39,255
- Invoice: $27,418 - $36,395
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Our road test for the 2005 Volvo V70 and XC70 includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Volvo V70 and XC70 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Volvo V70 and XC70, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Volvo V70 and XC70 help you decide if a 2005 Volvo V70 and XC70 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 6.6 |
The 2.4 model feels sluggish with automatic transmission; no opportunity to test with manual. Others in this line go well once their turbo starts boosting, but suffer from nonlinear throttle response under moderate acceleration; first there's little power, then too much. No opportunity to time 0-60 mph with 2.5T. Test automatic-transmission T5 did 8 sec 0-60. Volvo pegs V70 R at 5.6 sec with manual transmission, 7.4 with automatic. AWD provides outstanding traction for slippery-surface acceleration.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 4.6 |
Test T5 averaged 19.8 mpg in even mix of city/highway driving. Test V70 XCs averaged 18.7-21.2 mpg. No opportunity to measure with other models. Volvo recommends premium-grade fuel for all engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4 | 6 | 6.9 |
Softest in 2.4, but 2.5T provides best balance of compliance and firmness--though it can feel too stiff over sharp bumps. XC70 subject to mild wavy-road float. T5's taut suspension and 17-inch tires give busy, thumpy ride. R's suspension can't duplicate supple control of best European rivals.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 7.1 |
R is a wagon with sport-sedan moves, though not those of a great sport sedan. All V70s have good cornering behavior and strong, stable braking. Higher-riding XC70 leans the most in turns, but never alarms. One test XC70 showed mild torque-steer tug in rapid takeoffs--odd for an AWD vehicle. AWD versions are sensible SUV alternatives--though R comes on summer treads and requires extra-cost all-season tires for winter duty.
QUIETNESS
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 6.8 |
Volvo's 5-cyl isn't objectionably noisy, but is louder than most rival V6s. Wind noise moderate, but XC70, T5, and R suffer tire drone.
CONTROLS
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.7 |
Gauges lack contrast in dim light. For '05, radio's station presets set via conventional buttons rather than slower-acting rotary dial. Dashtop navigation screen hard to read in daylight, and system's controls are on the steering wheel, inaccessible to passenger. However, navigation system doesn't incorporate audio or climate functions--a plus.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
Occupants coddled by Volvo's usual wide, plush seats. Ample head and leg room. High front headrests block view to back and sides, rear headrests hinder over-the-shoulder vision.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Decent foot room and 6-footer head clearance if front seats no more than halfway back. Short cushion lacks thigh support. Shoulder width insufficient for three grown-ups. Entry/exit average.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 4 |
Ample and useful. Rear seat folds to make a flat, long, fairly wide deck. Optional audio system's subwoofer blocks access to under-floor spare tire.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 3 | 4 | 5.9 |
Not as refined as Audi, BMW, and Mercedes competitors, and less fuel efficient than you might expect. The 2.5T has the best blend of what this wagon offers. The XC70 provides some SUV flavor without the usual SUV drawbacks.
Total Score
| 2.4, auto. | 2.5T | R, auto. | XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 59 | 64 | 56 | 56 | 61.6 |
Total Score: 59
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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