IT IS ironic that Volvo’s bestseller of a decade ago – the V70 – has been relegated to a bit-player in 2009, just when the all-new third-generation model is probably the Swedish car industry’s most convincing alternative to a Mercedes, Audi or BMW. In T6 AWD guise, the full-sized Volvo estate builds on its predecessors’ widely acknowledged safety, comfort, security and packaging attributes by injecting a world-class turbocharged petrol engine of exceptional performance, palpably improved driving dynamics and pointy-end levels of technology. Seen in this light against the Volvo’s mostly German opposition, the V70’s innate enjoyment and character – as well as undeniable value for money – make it a compelling luxury car proposition.
![](/assets/contents/6db7a0b74bc9c5c9d5250c5c15420c61ab0c547b.jpg)
Volvo V70
Released: Feb 2000
Ended: March 2008
Family Tree: V70The second-generation V70 arrived here in February 2000, beating the S60 sedan (on which it was based) to market by almost a year. It embraced the qualities with which Volvo earned its reputation - safety, comfort, practicality and eco and family friendliness – but was let down by the front-wheel drive platform’s overly light steering and at times hard ride. The 2.4-litre five-cylinder produced 125kW/230Nm while a light-boost turbo version produced 147kW/245Nm and the high-boost T5 pumped out 184kW/330Nm. Gearbox choices were a five-speed auto or a five-speed manual. A mild model reshuffle occurred in mid-2003, with the 154kW/320Nm 2.4 turbo Activ replacing the 2.4T and T5, in preparation for the hard-edged AWD V70 R slingshot with a new 2.5-litre 220kW/300Nm turbo-five.
A late-2004 facelift introduced a more rounded nose and new grille, clear tail-lights, new bumpers and improved seats.
Facebook Twitter Instagram