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2008 Volvo XC70 Full Review
Date Published: 7/19/08
Also in the 2008 Volvo XC70 Review:
5.
6.
Volvo XC70 Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Volvo XC70 Review
The 2008 Volvo XC70 is redesigned, with freshened styling and more power. This SUV-flavored wagon is essentially a raised-suspension version of Volvo's V70 wagon, which also is redesigned for 2008. The 2008 XC70 is about 2 inches longer in wheelbase and 4 inches longer overall. It has all-wheel drive and a 235-hp 3.2-liter inline 6-cylinder engine. This powertrain replaces a 208-hp turbocharged 5-cylinder. The sole transmission is a 6-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Volvo's Blind Spot Information System is newly available on the XC70. The rear bench has optional integrated child booster seats that are also height adjustable. A navigation system is optional.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars.
Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, and Lexus ES 350. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TL, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS, Volvo V70, and Volvo XC70.
Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, and Lexus ES 350. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TL, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS, Volvo V70, and Volvo XC70.
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2008 Volvo XC70 Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Passenger and cargo room | Key options available only in expensive packages |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
XC70 shares its engine and transmission with the V70, but weighs about 200 pounds more. It moves along nicely just the same. There's adequate power from a stop and enough reserve power for fuss-free passing and merging. The smooth transmission is quick to respond to throttle inputs
| Base | Class Average |
| 5 | 7 |
XC70 shares its engine and transmission with the V70, but weighs about 200 pounds more. It moves along nicely just the same. There's adequate power from a stop and enough reserve power for fuss-free passing and merging. The smooth transmission is quick to respond to throttle inputs
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, XC70s averaged 20.1-20.9 mpg. Volvo recommends premium-grade gas.
| Base | Class Average |
| 5 | 4.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, XC70s averaged 20.1-20.9 mpg. Volvo recommends premium-grade gas.
Ride Quality
Compared to the similar V70, XC70 suffers somewhat from its firmer suspension tuning and unnecessary all-terrain tires. Still, overall ride comfort is good, with only larger road imperfections pounding through the cabin.
| Base | Class Average |
| 6 | 6.3 |
Compared to the similar V70, XC70 suffers somewhat from its firmer suspension tuning and unnecessary all-terrain tires. Still, overall ride comfort is good, with only larger road imperfections pounding through the cabin.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Compared to SUVs, as is Volvo's pretense, the XC70 is nimble and nearly sporty. Compared to the V70, XC70 has slightly less communicative steering and marginally more lean in corners.
| Base | Class Average |
| 6 | 7.1 |
Compared to SUVs, as is Volvo's pretense, the XC70 is nimble and nearly sporty. Compared to the V70, XC70 has slightly less communicative steering and marginally more lean in corners.
Quietness
Wind and road noise are kept well in check, though the standard all-terrain tires can kick up a fuss on coarse concrete surfaces. The engine sounds refined, with its noise only really noticeable under hard throttle.
| Base | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 |
Wind and road noise are kept well in check, though the standard all-terrain tires can kick up a fuss on coarse concrete surfaces. The engine sounds refined, with its noise only really noticeable under hard throttle.
Controls
We have not yet tested an XC70 or similar V70 with the available navigation system. Without the system, XC70's control layout is simple and generally intuitive. Gauges are large, clearly marked, and easy to read. Several testers found the digital bar graph a poor substitute for a conventional fuel gauge.
| Base | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.1 |
We have not yet tested an XC70 or similar V70 with the available navigation system. Without the system, XC70's control layout is simple and generally intuitive. Gauges are large, clearly marked, and easy to read. Several testers found the digital bar graph a poor substitute for a conventional fuel gauge.
Details
Cabin materials are padded and/or nicely grained where it matters most. Assembly quality is first rate. The available Premium Package includes leather seating and wood trim that impart a convincing luxury feel.
| Base | Class Average |
| 7 | 7.4 |
Cabin materials are padded and/or nicely grained where it matters most. Assembly quality is first rate. The available Premium Package includes leather seating and wood trim that impart a convincing luxury feel.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Plenty of headroom and legroom, even for taller occupants. Thin roof pillars and large glass areas combine for excellent all-around visibility.
| Base | Class Average |
| 8 | 7.3 |
Plenty of headroom and legroom, even for taller occupants. Thin roof pillars and large glass areas combine for excellent all-around visibility.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Decent space for two adults, but three abreast seating is best reserved for quick trips. Under-seat foot space is tight, compromising comfort when the front seats are too far back.
| Base | Class Average |
| 6 | 5.2 |
Decent space for two adults, but three abreast seating is best reserved for quick trips. Under-seat foot space is tight, compromising comfort when the front seats are too far back.
Cargo Room
Large, boxy, nicely finished cargo area features flat folding second-row seats and handy under-floor storage. A storage-lid prop and cargo tie-down points are nice touches. In cabin storage is limited to an average size glovebox and center console, as well as a few tiny cubbies.
| Base | Class Average |
| 8 | 4.2 |
Large, boxy, nicely finished cargo area features flat folding second-row seats and handy under-floor storage. A storage-lid prop and cargo tie-down points are nice touches. In cabin storage is limited to an average size glovebox and center console, as well as a few tiny cubbies.
Value within Class
In a perfect world, Volvo's proven all-wheel-drive system would be available on the less expensive, less aggressively styled V70 wagon. Still, this SUV-style wagon has its charms, among them a roomy cabin, refined drivetrain, and impressive build quality. Be careful with options list however, as a few quick checks can swell the XC70's sticker to more than $50,000.
| Base | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.2 |
In a perfect world, Volvo's proven all-wheel-drive system would be available on the less expensive, less aggressively styled V70 wagon. Still, this SUV-style wagon has its charms, among them a roomy cabin, refined drivetrain, and impressive build quality. Be careful with options list however, as a few quick checks can swell the XC70's sticker to more than $50,000.
Total Score
| Base | Class Average |
| 72 | 68.4 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 56 | |
| Average Score | 68 | |
| High Score | 78 |
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2008 Volvo XC70 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/11/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
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| Base 4-door wagon | $36,775 | $34,569 | $745 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
| Model | Rebate & Incentives | Type | Expires |
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| XC70 | 4.9% financing. | Customer | 09/30/08 |
|
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| XC70 | $2750-$4250 dealer incentive. | Dealer | 09/30/08 |
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base
Powertrain
3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine, 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, all-wheel drive, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, front-seat active head restraints, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, hill descent control, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), center console, fold-flat passenger seat, split folding rear seat, heated power mirrors w/turn signals, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, tachometer, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, intermittent wipers, automatic day/night rearview mirror, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, roof rails, front and rear fog lights, 215/65R16 tires, alloy wheels.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Premium Pkg.
|
||
|
Base
|
$4,050
|
$3,483
|
|
Leather upholstery, power passenger seat, wood interior trim, power sunroof, universal garage door opener, compass.
|
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|
Convenience Pkg.
|
||
|
Base
|
$2,475
|
$2,130
|
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Front- and rear-obstacle-detection system, upgraded interior air filter w/humidity sensor, power child locks, sunglass holder, grocery-bag holder, cargo-area auxiliary power outlet, rear privacy glass.
|
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Collision Avoidance Pkg.
|
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Base
|
$1,695
|
$1,458
|
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Lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, collision warning w/automatic braking. Requires Premium Pkg.
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Dynaudio Pkg.
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Base
|
$2,650
|
$2,280
|
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AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, satellite radio, upgraded sound system, rear radio controls.
|
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Climate Pkg.
|
||
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Base
|
$1,600
|
$1,377
|
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w/steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights
|
$1,400
|
$1,206
|
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Heated front and rear seats, rain-sensing wipers w/heated washers, headlight washers.
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Safety |
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Blind spot alert
|
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Base
|
$695
|
$598
|
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Dual booster seats
|
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|
Base
|
$495
|
$426
|
|
Includes power child locks. Deletes heated rear seats from Climate Pkg.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
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Navigation system
|
||
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Base
|
$2,120
|
$1,823
|
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DVD entertainment system
|
||
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Base
|
$1,800
|
$1,548
|
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Satellite radio prep
|
||
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Base
|
$95
|
$82
|
|
Personal Car Communicator
|
||
|
Base
|
$495
|
$426
|
|
Keyless access and starting, security status, alarm.
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Adaptive cruise control
|
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|
Base
|
$1,495
|
$1,286
|
|
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
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Special paint
|
||
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Base
|
$475
|
$409
|
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Premium paint
|
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Base
|
$625
|
$538
|
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Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights
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Base
|
$800
|
$688
|
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Includes washers.
|
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235/55R17 tires
|
||
|
Base
|
$550
|
$473
|
|
|
||
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Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Volvo XC70 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Volvo XC70 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 110.8 |
| Overall Length, in. | 190.5 |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 63.1 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4092 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 72.1 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.8 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.9 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.6 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.2 /195 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 235 @ 6200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 236 @ 3200 |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|
| 6-speed automatic | 15/22 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Volvo XC70 4-door wagon |
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%. Side-impact
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%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 12/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/unlimited | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | --/7500 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Sweden
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Volvo XC70 Review:
5.
6.
Volvo XC70 Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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