December 2007
2008 Volvo XC70 AWD wagon: First Drive
Right-sized, all-terrain wagon improves with redesign
The new XC70 wagon is derived from Volvo’s flagship S80 instead of the mid-sized S60 sedan that was the previous generation’s
base, so it is longer and boasts the very latest in Volvo’s complement of safety gear. Though it has a slightly raised ride
height, it’s essentially the same car as the new V70 wagon.
We bought a typically equipped XC70 for $42,560.
First impressions. The good size and overall versatility of the XC70 make it an appealing alternative to car-based SUVs. The cabin is quieter and better finished than the previous version. The ride has been softened a little and handling is more responsive. But the driving experience and engine performance leave much to be desired.
The transversely-mounted 235-hp, 3.2-liter straight-six engine is smoother and more civilized than the turbocharged five-cylinder
it replaced, but it is still raspy at high revs and is only adequate for moving the heavy XC70 around. The six-speed automatic
transmission works well. The trip computer says we’ve been averaging 19 mpg so far—comparable to larger vehicles such as the
Toyota Highlander. A hill-descent control feature is designed to keep the wagon crawling off-road slopes without your touching
the brakes, so that you remain glad that you didn’t choose an SUV.
The interior has excellent fit and finish. The large front seats are comfortable and provide ample support. The rear seat is roomy and there’s a flat, generous cargo area. Big windows and a square body afford a great view out. Our car has the optional built-in two-level booster seats, which let the boosters raise or lower an inch to position the shoulder-belt for different size kids. It’s easier to install child seats and their top tethers, and each of the rear seat’s three sections folds individually, maximizing versatility.
CR’s take. The new XC70 is an appealing family vehicle that should be just the right size for many people looking at premium-priced
transport. It improves on its predecessor in just about every way, but at this price level, more driving excitement would
be welcome. A full test is scheduled for the March issue, online in February.
Discuss Volvo in the Cars forum.
We bought a typically equipped XC70 for $42,560.
First impressions. The good size and overall versatility of the XC70 make it an appealing alternative to car-based SUVs. The cabin is quieter and better finished than the previous version. The ride has been softened a little and handling is more responsive. But the driving experience and engine performance leave much to be desired.
The interior has excellent fit and finish. The large front seats are comfortable and provide ample support. The rear seat is roomy and there’s a flat, generous cargo area. Big windows and a square body afford a great view out. Our car has the optional built-in two-level booster seats, which let the boosters raise or lower an inch to position the shoulder-belt for different size kids. It’s easier to install child seats and their top tethers, and each of the rear seat’s three sections folds individually, maximizing versatility.
Discuss Volvo in the Cars forum.
