2010 Volvo XC70: Road Test
2010 Volvo XC70 ▼
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- MSRP: $37,950 - $42,800
- Invoice: $35,673 - $40,232
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Related to Volvo 70 series
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Our road test for the 2010 Volvo XC70 includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Volvo XC70 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Volvo XC70, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Volvo XC70 help you decide if a 2010 Volvo XC70 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 7.4 |
The base XC70 shares its engine and transmission with the V70, but weighs about 200 pounds more. It moves along nicely just the same. Power is adequate from a stop, and there's enough reserve muscle for fuss-free passing and merging. T6 feels noticeably stronger and does not suffer from turbo lag. The smooth transmission is quick to respond to throttle inputs.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, base XC70s averaged 20.1-20.9 mpg. A T6 averaged 17.7 mpg with slightly more city driving than highway use. Volvo recommends premium-grade gas for all models.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.5 |
Compared with 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
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7.2 |
Compared with 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
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
Wind and road noise are kept well in check, though the standard all-terrain tires can kick up a fuss on coarse concrete surfaces. Both engines sound refined, and they are really only noticeable under hard throttle.
CONTROLS
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
No XC70 or similar V70 models with the available navigation system have been made available for testing. Without the system, XC70's control layout is simple and generally intuitive. Gauges are large, clearly marked, and easy to read. Several testers find the digital bar graph a poor substitute for a conventional fuel gauge.
DETAILS
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.7 |
Cabin materials are padded and/or nicely grained where it matters most. Assembly quality is first rate. The available Premium Package on the Base model includes leather seating and wood trim that impart a convincing luxury feel. These features are standard on the T6.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
Headroom and legroom are plentiful, even for taller occupants. Thin roof pillars and large glass areas combine for excellent all-around visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 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
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 3.9 |
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
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.6 |
XC70 has its charms, among them a roomy cabin, refined drivetrain, and impressive build quality. The T6 adds stronger performance, though not enough to justify its higher starting price. With either model, be careful with options list, as a few quick checks can swell the delivered price to more than $50,000.
Total Score
| Base | T6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 72 | 72 | 70.3 |
Total Score: 72
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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