For The Volvo XC70 is a large estate car with a modicum of off-road ability. The cabin is comfortable, and built to a very high standard. Standard equipment is generous.

Against The XC70's ride is choppy around town, while the steering is vague and the engines feel dated.

Volvo XC70 Estate

What Car? says

2 out of 5 stars

More 4x4 estate than rugged off-roader, but it’s practical and well kitted. The ride and handling disappoint, though.

What Car? readers say

4.125


Key facts

0–60mph
9.6 secs
Top speed
127 mph
Average mpg
51.4
Tank range
792 miles
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Features

See all equipment

Size

schematic See all measurements

View the whole Volvo XC70 Estate range

Cheaper

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Read in full

The full Volvo XC70 Estate 2.0 D3 DRIVe SE 2WD review


Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

The Volvo XC70 is based on the V70, so it feels more like a jacked-up estate (which it is) than a proper SUV.

Think of it as a V70 with some limited off-road ability and you’re about there, although the D3-engined models are front- rather than four-wheel drive, so their plastic cladding and raised ground clearance are purely for show.

Four engines are available. The 2.0 D3, the 2.4 D3 and 2.4 D5 are the diesel choices, and all perform well. The T6 petrol, meanwhile, is monumentally thirsty.

Build quality is typically superb, and the spacious, comfortable cabin combines with a long list of standard equipment to make this a pleasant place in which to cover the miles. However, the ride can get unsettled thanks to the higher suspension.

All XC70s have alloy wheels, a powered driver’s seat, a CD player and some form of air-conditioning. Roof rails and powered windows and door mirrors are also included.

Reader test team says:

Volvo XC70 Estate 2.0 D3 DRIVe SE 2WD 5dr

Took delivery March 2012 after having the 4 wheel drive model.Find the 2 lt car an improvement for normal road driving and especially good on…

Dennis Green

4 out of 5 stars

Volvo XC70 Estate 2.4 D5 SE 4WD 5dr

only took delivery 3 weeks ago, but this is an impressive car so far, ok. fuel consumption is average on local driving mid 30s on a par with previous…

duncan morrison

4 out of 5 stars

Volvo XC70 Estate 2.4D DRIVe SE 2WD 5dr

Fatally flawed car that needed the driveshafts changing at 5000 miles and is going into the dealers at 11500 miles, as the loud clicking sound that is…

Martin Smith

3 out of 5 stars

Volvo XC70 Estate 2.4 D5 SE 4WD 5dr

Love this car - its roomy, very comfy and great to drive. No faults at all. Volvo is the most trustworthy car I have had

Inger Morris

5 out of 5 stars
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