2007 Volvo V70: Road Test

Archived Review

2007 Volvo V70 

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  • MSRP: $30,045 -$40,940
  • Invoice: $28,277 -$38,519

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Our road test for the 2007 Volvo V70 includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Volvo V70 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Volvo V70, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Volvo V70 help you decide if a 2007 Volvo V70 is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

2.4, auto. 2.5T R, auto. Class Average
4 6 6 7

Base nonturbo 2.4 sluggish with automatic transmission; no opportunity yet to test with manual. Other models go well once turbos start boosting, but suffer nonlinear throttle response and turbo lag that frustrate smooth driving. No opportunity yet to time 2.5T. 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. Class Average
5 5 4 4.6

Test R with automatic transmission averaged 22.4 mpg in mostly highway driving. Volvo recommends premium-grade fuel for all models.

RIDE QUALITY

2.4, auto. 2.5T R, auto. Class Average
7 7 4 6.6

Softest in 2.4, but 2.5T provides best balance of compliance and firmness--though it can feel too stiff over sharp bumps. R's taut suspension and 17-inch tires give busy, thumpy ride--doesn't duplicate supple control of best European rivals.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

2.4, auto. 2.5T R, auto. Class Average
6 7 7 7.2

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. AWD versions are sensible SUV alternatives, though R comes with summer treads and requires extra-cost all-season tires for winter duty.

QUIETNESS

2.4, auto. 2.5T R, auto. Class Average
6 6 5 6.9

Volvo's 5-cyl isn't objectionably noisy, but is louder, less pleasant to the ear than most rivals V6s. Wind noise moderate, but R suffers tire drone.

CONTROLS

2.4, auto. 2.5T R, auto. Class Average
7 7 7 6.8

Gauges lack contrast in some light conditions. Materials and workmanship good otherwise. No opportunity to test with navigation system.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

2.4, auto. 2.5T R, auto. Class Average
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. Class Average
5 5 5 5.4

Decent six-footer head clearance, OK foot space 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. Class Average
7 7 7 4.2

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. Class Average
4 6 3 6

V70 is less refined than rival Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz wagons, and less fuel-efficient than you might think. And those rivals offer all-wheel drive. The V70 is solid and roomy, though, with the 2.5T model the best all-around choice in its lineup.

Total Score

2.4, auto. 2.5T R, auto. Class Average
59 64 56 62.1

Total Score: 60

Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score
49
Average Score
62
High Score
75

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