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Volvo is now a true rival to the likes of Audi, BMW, Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz, offering an alternative take on premium executive cars to a rapidly growing fanbase.

After a string of strong launches – notably with the Mk2 XC90 and XC60 SUVs – it struck gold in early 2018 when it launched its smallest SUV, the XC40. When our testers compared the car with its rivals, they concluded that it was the best launch of the previous 12 months, earning it our coveted overall Car of the Year Award.

The good news is that, like many car makers, Volvo now uses the same structure underneath most of its cars – so if they get it right on one model, it usually bodes well for the rest. That’s the case here, with Volvo’s subsequent saloon and estate launches complementing the SUVs and making for a generally extremely appealing line-up.

VOLVO

The Volvo C70 is a relaxed and sophisticated cabriolet, with a good specification as standard

Used Volvo C70 Coupe Cabriolet 2006 - 2013

The weight of the C70 shows when it comes to fuel economy. The 2.4-litre petrol has an official average of 31.4mpg, but expect that to dip into the high 20s with real-world driving. The 2.5-litre petrol is only just behind at 31.0mpg, with the 2.0-litre and D5 diesels returning 46.3mpg and 38.7mpg respectively.

Only the diesels emit less than 200g/km of CO2, with the 2.0-litre at 161g/km and the D5 at 169g/km (193g/km as an automatic). Servicing costs are generally slightly lower than rivals, but insurance groups between group 28 - 35 means premiums may be steep. The C70 didn't sell as well as some rivals, and while that has protected residual values, they will slip over time.

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The Volvo C70 is a relaxed and sophisticated cabriolet, with a good specification as standard

The petrol models are generally cheaper, because many buyers look for a diesel C70 in the belief that they'll save money. This isn't necessarily the case: you'll need to do enough miles a year to justify the extra cost of diesel fuel and the increased purchase price.

The 2.4-litre petrol engine with 170bhp works well, but the 217bhp 2.5-litre version, with 217bhp, feels noticeably faster. The 2.4-litre D5 diesel with 178bhp (available as an auto only until '08) has plenty of low-down pull. In 2007 a 134bhp 2.0-litre diesel was introduced, but it feels a little weedy.

Sport editions come with alloys, electronic stability control, climate control and a CD multichanger. SE trim cars come with electrically adjustable leather seats while the SE Lux adds a few more goodies.

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What we're looking for:<ul><li>Wind-in-the-hair excitement</li> <li>Roof that’s quick and easy to raise and lower</li> <li>Comfortable seating for four adults</li> <li>Sufficient practicality for everyday use</li> <li>Little wind buffeting</li> <li>Quietness, whether the roof is up or down</li> <li>Minimal shaking and shimmying over bumps</li></ul>

Despite the British weather, UK car buyers are among the biggest enthusiasts for wind-in-your-hair motoring, so convertibles have always been surprisingly popular here. It’s best to be able to react to the fickle climate, though, so a roof that opens (and closes) quickly is every bit as important as good top-down cruising refinement.

There are precious few bespoke drop-tops these days, so your choice of models is generally limited to soft-top versions of existing models. But there are still some fantastic options out there.

Convertible

As with other coupe/convertibles, the folding roof can be a major bugbear for owners.

Squeaks and rattles are the biggest issue, ranging in severity from a minor irritation to mind-bending annoyance. Dealers can fix the issue, but it can take more than one visit. Some owners swear by lubrication of the roof's weather seals, but consult your dealer before you do this. The roof can also jam while in use, requiring it to be removed, repaired and then refitted. This takes time and could prove to be expensive.

Other problems include brittle cabin trim, particularly around the centre console and armrest area, and a complete electrical failure.

It might be best to look for cars with 17-inch wheels, rather than the 18-inch alloys which are standard on SE Lux models, because they do the ride quality no favours at all.

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The Volvo C70 mixes and matches the best bits of both coupe and convertible models. The folding metal roof provides a closeted coupe environment when it's up, but you can drop the top at the push of button and enjoy the weather.

To call the C70 a four-seater is stretching the imagination because the back seats are big enough for children only, or small adults at a pinch. The boot is one of the biggest in this class when the roof is up, but, as soon as it's stowed, you get a small space that's tricky to load.

In order to accommodate the folding roof design, the C70 has piled on the pounds - it's one of the heaviest cars in its class. While this extra weight doesn't make it cumbersome or hard to drive, it's not as agile as used rivals such as the Volkswagen Eos, and the steering is short of feel. Think of it as a comfortable high-speed cruiser than a sharp, sporty number.

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Used Volvo C70 Coupe Cabriolet 2006 - 2013 reliability

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Used Volvo C70 Coupe Cabriolet 2006 - 2013 review

As with other coupe/convertibles, the folding roof can be a major bugbear for owners.,Squeaks and rattles are the biggest issue, ranging in severity from a minor irritation to mind-bending annoyance. Dealers can fix the issue, but it can take more than one visit. Some owners swear by lubrication of the roof's weather seals, but consult your dealer before you do this. The roof can also jam while in use, requiring it to be removed, repaired and then refitted. This takes time and could prove to be expensive.,Other problems include brittle cabin trim, particularly around the centre console and armrest area, and a complete electrical failure.It might be best to look for cars with 17-inch wheels, rather than the 18-inch alloys which are standard on SE Lux models, because they do the ride quality no favours at all. 

What to look for when buying a Volvo C70 2006 - 2013, covering common problems to check for and overall vehicle reliability.

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Used Volvo C70 Coupe Cabriolet 2006 - 2013 reliability

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