2006 Volvo XC70: Road Test
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2006 Volvo XC70 ▼
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- MSRP: $35,700
- Invoice: $33,593
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Our road test for the 2006 Volvo XC70 includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Volvo XC70 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Volvo XC70, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Volvo XC70 help you decide if a 2006 Volvo XC70 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.7 |
Acceleration snappy once the turbo starts boosting, but suffers from nonlinear throttle response under moderate acceleration--first there's little power, then too much. AWD provides outstanding traction for slippery-surface acceleration.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.6 |
Test XCs averaged 18.7-21.2 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Volvo recommends premium-grade fuel for all engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.7 |
XC70 subject to mild wavy-road float, but overall ride is comfortable and suspension compliant.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 7.1 |
Above-average roadholding and sharp steering, but XC70 leans too much in turns. One test XC70 showed mild torque-steer tug in rapid takeoffs--odd for an AWD vehicle.
QUIETNESS
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.8 |
Volvo's 5-cyl isn't objectionably noisy, but is louder than most rival V6s. Wind noise moderate.
CONTROLS
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.7 |
Gauges lack contrast in dim light. 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)
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 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)
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.5 |
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
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 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
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.9 |
Not as refined as Audi, BMW, and Mercedes competitors, and less fuel efficient than you might expect. The XC70 provides some SUV flavor without the usual SUV thirst or bulk.
Total Score
| XC70 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 56 | 61.4 |
Total Score: 56
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