2008 Volvo XC70

Remember when Volvos were solid, safe, boxy and boring? Now they’re solid, safe and stylish, and some are downright sexy. Some have even been swift and sporty. Go figure. Now come these solid, safe, practical and attractive new midsize wagons. Built on a completely new vehicle architecture and slotted neatly between Volvo’s smaller V50 wagon and its larger, more rugged XC90 SUV (“XC” for cross-country), this third-generation V70 and its slightly taller and tougher XC70 “crossover” (CUV) derivative share major systems and components with the new-for-2007 S80 flagship luxury sedan. Volvo says they bring to market “breakthroughs,” in safety, style, luxury, driving dynamics, utility and versatility.

Larger Platform Means More Power

In addition to increased size and interior roominess, one major advantage of moving them to the S80 architecture is that they share Volvo’s advanced 235-hp 3.2-liter inline six, mounted transversely driving the front wheels in FWD models and all four with available AWD. The previous S60-based models made do with a less smooth and less powerful five-cylinder. Coupled to a new six-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission with on-demand manual shifting, its CPS (Cam Profile Switching) and VIS (Variable Intake System), and other efficiency features, provide a respectable balance of performance and fuel economy.


Volvo touts the all-wheel drive XC70’s off-road capabilities as close to the XC90’s. With 8.3 in. of ground clearance, it can wade through nearly a foot of water and climb and, thanks to standard Hill Descent Control, descend steep grades with the ease of a truck-based SUV. On the other hand, the 3.2-liter six’s performance in the 4,100-lb. XC70 with just two aboard was a bit disappointing. Lightly loaded, it can accelerate from rest to 60 mph in a respectable 8.1 seconds. Fully loaded with family and gear, it will be a lot less eager. EPA economy ratings are 16 mpg city, 24 highway for the FWD V70, 15 city, 22 highway for the AWD XC70. Test-driving an XC70, we found it solid, quiet and stable on paved roads and robust and rattle-free even at elevated speeds on off-road trails. Its rough-surface ride was a bit stiff yet surprisingly supple, and its steering and braking were strong and secure on- and off-road.

Scandinavian Styling

While these sleek new wagons are instantly recognizable as Volvos, their designers blessed them with a more athletic stance, shorter overhangs on a two-inch-longer wheelbase and richer-looking details compared to previous models. The wide grille opening is ringed with chrome, and the black egg-crate pattern inside it wears a stronger interpretation of Volvo’s signature “Ironmark” slash and logo. The new tailgate’s glass extends further downward for increased rear visibility, and all lights above the waistline are instant-on LEDs.


The off-road aspiring XC70’s protective side cladding has been dressed up with chrome moldings along the door bottoms, its front fog lamps live in large, bright-accented bumper pockets, and the obligatory CUV roof rails are nicely integrated into the A-pillar moldings. Large, aggressive black-plastic-protected wheel openings also help define, in Volvo’s words, a “highly capable, tall, spacious vehicle with elegant lines and rippling muscles.”

Interior Design

Clean, contemporary Scandinavian style inside the cabin blends pleasing form with terrific functionality, comfort and touches of luxury. Instruments and controls are easy to find, identify and operate, and Volvo’s super-slim floating center stack opens some useful storage behind it. Multi-adjustable "ortho-posture" front bucket seats support and coddle the driver and front passenger, while the split 40/20/40 rear seat offers the flexibility of three-across seating, or two outboard seats separated by a wide armrest. Total cargo capacity with the whole second row folded down is 72.1 cu. ft.