Volvo XC70
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for an estate car that can handle more than just the school run? The Volvo XC70 might be exactly what you need. This rugged family hauler combines the practicality of a traditional estate with genuine off-road capability, thanks to raised ground clearance and available all-wheel drive. It’s the car for families who want versatility without sacrificing Volvo’s legendary safety and build quality.

From the outside, the XC70 has a distinctive, purposeful appearance that sets it apart from conventional estates. The plastic cladding around the wheel arches and higher ride height give it a more adventurous look than rivals like the BMW 3 Series Touring or Audi A4 Avant. Inside, you’ll find the trademark Scandinavian design philosophy at work, with clean lines, quality materials, and that famous floating centre console. Everything feels solid and built to last.

On the road, the XC70 delivers a composed and comfortable driving experience. The raised suspension provides excellent visibility and a smooth ride over rough surfaces. While it’s not the sportiest estate to drive, it excels at what it was designed for: carrying families and their belongings safely and comfortably over any terrain. The combination of practicality, capability, and Swedish engineering makes it a compelling choice for those who value substance over style.

What's the Volvo Xc70 Like to Drive?

The Volvo XC70 was offered with a range of efficient engines throughout its production run. The most popular choice was the 2.4-litre five-cylinder diesel, producing around 163 to 185 horsepower depending on the year. This engine provides adequate performance with 0-60 mph times of around 9 seconds, while delivering excellent fuel economy. For those wanting more power, the T6 petrol engine offered spirited performance, though at the expense of fuel consumption.

Where the XC70 truly excels is in its all-terrain capability. The all-wheel drive system and increased ground clearance mean it can tackle conditions that would leave conventional estate cars stuck. The ride quality is excellent, soaking up bumps and potholes with ease thanks to the longer-travel suspension. Steering is light and precise, making it easy to manoeuvre despite its size. While it’s not designed to be a sports car, the XC70 handles predictably and safely, with excellent stability at motorway speeds. It’s a reassuring car to drive in all weather conditions.

How Comfortable Is the Volvo Xc70?

Step inside the XC70 and you’re greeted by one of the most comfortable and well-designed interiors in its class. The trademark floating centre console immediately catches the eye, while the high-quality materials and excellent build quality create a premium atmosphere. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with good adjustment range and optional heating. Everything feels robust and purposeful, from the chunky controls to the solid door handles.

Space is generous throughout the cabin. Adults can sit comfortably in the rear seats even on longer journeys, with good headroom despite the sunroof that many models feature. The driving position is excellent, with a commanding view of the road ahead thanks to the raised seating position. Road noise is well controlled, creating a serene environment for passengers. Standard equipment typically includes climate control, a decent sound system, and Volvo’s intuitive infotainment system. The overall ambience is one of understated luxury and Scandinavian functionality.

The Volvo XC70 is a compelling choice for buyers who need genuine versatility from their family car. It successfully combines the practicality of a large estate with off-road capability that few rivals can match. The interior is comfortable and well-built, while the driving experience is refined and confidence-inspiring. Volvo’s reputation for safety and reliability adds further appeal.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Volvo Xc70 Expensive to Run?

The XC70 offers reasonable running costs for such a capable and well-equipped estate car. The diesel engines are the highlight here, delivering real-world fuel economy of 35-40 mpg in mixed driving conditions. This makes it competitive with other premium estates despite its all-wheel drive capability. Insurance groups are moderate for the class, though higher than for mainstream estates due to the premium positioning and repair costs.

Purchase prices reflect the XC70’s premium positioning and strong residual values. While it costs more than mainstream alternatives, you’re paying for Volvo’s renowned build quality, safety reputation, and unique capabilities. Maintenance costs are reasonable for a premium brand, though using Volvo specialists or main dealers for servicing can be more expensive than independent garages. The strong build quality means fewer unexpected repairs, and car finance options can help spread the cost. Overall, the XC70 represents solid value for those who appreciate its unique blend of qualities.

Volvo Xc70 Practicality & Boot Space

The XC70 excels in the practicality department, which is exactly what you’d expect from a Volvo estate. The 575-litre boot is larger than most competitors and features a usefully square shape that makes loading bulky items easier. The rear seats split and fold flat to create a massive load area that can swallow furniture, bikes, or camping gear with ease. Clever touches include bag hooks, a 12V socket in the load area, and an optional load cover.

Inside the cabin, there are plenty of storage areas for family life. Deep door pockets, a large glovebox, and various cubby holes keep smaller items organised. The raised driving position makes it easy to get in and out, while the wide-opening doors help with fitting child seats. For families who need space and versatility, the XC70 is hard to beat among used Volvo cars. Its ability to tackle rough tracks to reach campsites or holiday cottages adds another dimension that conventional estates simply can’t match.

The Volvo XC70 stands out as a uniquely capable family estate that doesn’t compromise on comfort or safety. It packages Volvo’s legendary build quality, excellent safety record, and practical design into a vehicle that can genuinely handle terrain that would defeat conventional estates. The spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reassuring all-weather capability make it an excellent choice for active families.

You choose the XC70 because you want an estate that can handle more than just tarmac roads. Its combination of space, capability, and Swedish engineering creates a compelling package that’s hard to match. Whether tackling the weekly shop or heading off the beaten track, the XC70 delivers with characteristic Volvo competence. For those seeking a dependable family car with genuine versatility, especially among cars under £10,000 in the used market, the XC70 deserves serious consideration.