Used 2007 Volvo V70

The Volvo V70 wagon makes an excellent transition vehicle for those who no longer need the massive passenger and cargo capacity of a full-size SUV, but still enjoy the convenience and versatility offered by an enclosed cargo bay. Capable of comfortably accommodating four adults and touting one of the best safety records in the industry, the V70 wagon feels as plush and comfortable to drive as an S80 sedan. With its rear seats folded down, the V70 can accommodate a weekend’s worth of gear, the family pups or the tools and hardware to tackle your next home improvement job. With models ranging from the comfortable 2.5T to the rugged XC70 and the scorching R, there is a V70 wagon to suit just about every need and desire.

The 2.4-liter engine of the base V70 is somewhat low on power for the size of this wagon. If power is a priority over economy, then step up to the turbocharged 2.5T model. This engine has significantly more horsepower and torque, making it much quicker off the line and providing potent passing power. No manual transmission is offered on the 2.5T, but Volvo does offer the five-speed Geartronic automatic that allows you to shift your own gears without the use of a clutch pedal. The V70 offers a well-balanced suspension that feels taut and stable without delivering a severe ride. The steering tends toward the heavy side, which can make parallel parking a bit more laborious than some might prefer.

No matter which V70 you choose, all models share two important traits: A roomy, ergonomically sound interior and an exceptional safety record. The V70’s front seats feel great on your back and feature an anti-submarine design that keeps you from sliding under the dash in the event of an accident. The rear seat offers good head and legroom for adults and creates 71.4 cubic-feet of cargo space when folded. Functionally, the V70’s instrument layout is near-perfect, with every switch, lever and button within easy reach of both the driver and the passenger, but the vast gray tones that run throughout the dash, door panels and seats are rather drab.

The V70 borrows the radical shape of its sister, the Volvo S80, and sharpens the V-shaped hood to form a truly attractive wagon. The near-vertical rear hatch and full-length D-pillar tail lamps create a highly functional look that extends the roof panel, creating more space up top. The XC70 is given additional ground clearance, a firmer suspension and more aggressive tires, while the sporty V70 R receives extra ground effects and a lower front end and rear spoiler.

Sport Seats
The amazingly comfortable sport seats on the Type R grab hold of you and seem to never let go.

Navigation System
The optional navigation system features a retractable screen positioned atop the dash instead of integrated into the audio.

The V70 has a five-speed manual transmission, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), Dynamic Stability Traction Control, dual-zone manual air conditioning, illuminated remote keyless entry, rear fog light, dual heated power mirrors, AM/FM stereo with CD, front side-impact and front and rear head-curtain airbags, cruise control, tilt/telescopic steering wheel and 16-inch "Echo" alloy wheels. The 2.5T and XC70 add a 208-horsepower turbocharged engine, five-speed automatic, a power driver’s seat and 16-inch "Eurus" alloy wheels. The premium R model adds a 300-horsepower engine, six-speed manual transmission, all-wheel drive, Brembo brakes, xenon headlamps, garage door opener, leather seats and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Options vary by trim level and include five-speed automatic transmission (six-speed on the R), all-wheel drive, power glass moonroof, heated seats, headlamp washers, rain-sensing wipers, Pro Logic surround sound, navigation, integrated child booster seat, rear park assist, power passenger seat, electronic climate control, leather seats, active bi-xenon headlamps and 17-inch custom alloy wheels.

Unless you’re absolutely strapped for cash, pay the extra $3K for the 2.5T. The 2.4 is just plain underpowered and the five-speed manual-equipped car does not have a strong resale value. If money is no object, get the V70 R. It serves all the functions required of a family wagon but can almost make you feel like a racecar driver.

2.4-liter in-line 5
168 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
166 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22/29 (manual), 21/29 (automatic)

2.5-liter in-line 5 Light-Pressure Turbo
208 horsepower @ 5000 rpm
236 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/29

2.5-liter in-line 5 Twin Turbo
300 horsepower @ 5500 rpm
295 lb.-ft. of torque @ 5250 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/24 (manual), 17/25 (automatic)