2002 Volvo V70 T5

Once a staple of the American automotive scene, station wagons have become the "missing men" in many manufacturers' lineups during the past couple of decades. That's hardly been the case at Volvo. Despite the onslaught of minivans, SUVs and now various "crossover" offerings, these venerable workhorses have remained a focal point of the mix. On one hand, the Gothenberg Gang has long excelled in serving the overtly utilitarian wing of the wagon-buying community. But it's equally true that Sweden's largest automaker also has managed to crank out some of the hottest sport variants ever to turn a wheel.

The V70 combines classic Volvo-isms with clearly more contemporary cues. Rounded front contours and a graceful rear sweep distinguish the current V70 from its boxier forebears.

The latest in that distinguished line is the new V70 T5. Standing proud of its lesser 2.4, 2.4T and XC brethren, this turbocharged toter is the undisputed excitement leader of Volvo's midsize wagon pack. Despite sport-coupe levels of quickness and agility, the T5 sacrifices virtually nothing in the way of day-to-day driving capability.


Visually, the V70 integrates numerous classic Volvo styling cues into its clearly more contemporary visage. Rounded contours of the front sheetmetal meld with a pronounced shoulder line and graceful sweep of the rear, giving it a sophisticated flair that was demonstrably absent from a number of its boxier forebears. The latest iteration of this handsome hauler also gained a lot more structural integrity in the redesign process that took place for the 2000 model year. Switching to single-piece main side stampings and a ring-type perimeter element around the rear gate netted a whopping 65 percent more torsional stiffness. Those design innovations greatly limit twist and flex, ensuring an even more stable-handling platform while virtually banishing formerly common squeaks and creaks.

Standard V70 amenities include A/C, power accessories, keyless entry, and dual 12V sockets. T5 level adds a power moonroof, auto climate control, a trip computer, power front seats and more.

Inside, the V70 matches equal measures of space and civility, starting with a five-passenger payload capability that can be increased to eight with addition of an optional third-row seat. Highly legible white-on-black analog gauges complement primary controls, stalks, and switchgear that are all positioned within easy reach. Those who regularly pursue the edge of the T5's formidable handling envelope will no doubt wish that its bucket seats had a tad more lateral support, but few will complain about their overall comfort and adjustability.


While not quite equal in sprawl space, the V70's rear bench will happily accommodate a pair of adults or a trio of kids. When cargo takes precedence, capacity of the 37.5 cubic-foot rear bay can be upped to 71.5 cubes by flipping the seatbacks down. The loading/unloading process is made even easier thanks to its large hatch, which features a bumper-level cutout.