Volvo has discontinued the V70 wagon for 2011, leaving the XC70 as the remaining big wagon in the lineup. In previous years the XC70 came only with all-wheel drive, though this year the base model features front wheel drive.
Two distinct XC70 models are offered: The 3.2 comes powered by a 3.2L inline-6, which produces 240 hp, while the top-of-the-line T6 utilizes a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 that delivers 300 hp and 325 ft-lb of torque. A 6-speed Geartronic automatic transmission with manual mode is standard in both models.
Inside, you'll find attractive materials and smart ergonomics, including Volvo's smart "floating" instrument panel and ultra-slim upright console.
Standard features on all XC70s include a 40/20/40 split folding rear seat, power windows, locks and mirrors, adjustable steering wheel with integrated audio and cruise control, heated mirrors, dual-zone climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth and an 8-speaker stereo with 6-CD changer, SIRIUS satellite radio, auxiliary audio jack and a USB/iPod audio interface. The T6 AWD adds a power moonroof, leather seating and woodgrain interior trim.
Optional on the XC70 are a rear parking aid with back-up camera, upgraded stereo system, HID headlights, rain-sensing wipers, power lift gate, heated seats and navigation. Many of these are bundled in to popular packages like the Convenience Package, which also includes a cargo cover and power folding rear head restraints and the Multimedia Package, which features the rear park assist camera.
Standard safety items on all XC70s include traction control and anti-skid, a tire pressure monitor, electronic stability control, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, a cabin full of airbags and a whiplash protection system.
Smooth Ride And Handling
All-wheel-drive Versatility
Cargo Room
Excellent Turbocharged Power In T6
Ample Standard Safety Features
The Volvo V70 has been discontinued for 2011, leaving the XC70 to soldier on as Volvo's only full-size wagon. To that end, the XC70 3.2's base trim is front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive with Volvo's Instant Traction optional. SIRIUS satellite radio now comes standard. The 3.2-liter inline-6 engine output has been bumped up from 235 hp to 240 hp.
In the XC70 T6, output from the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine now reaches 300 hp and 325 lb-feet of torque. A power glass moonroof is now standard.
In both XC70 trims, a cargo cover and power folding rear head restraints have been added to the Convenience Package, and a rear park assist camera has been added to the Multimedia Package, while a blue band windshield has been added to the Climate Package.
Prices of XC70 trims have dropped. Volvo lowered the base 3.2's price by nearly $6,000, the 3.2 AWD is nearly $4,000 less and the T6 AWD's price is down $4,800.
Volvo has always set the bar when it comes to safety, and the XC70 exemplifies that. And with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive available, buyers are able to choose the wagon that best suits their needs. Increased output from both engines adds pep and performance to the XC70, and with a smooth ride, plenty of cargo capacity and competitive pricing, the Volvo XC70 makes a strong case against rival wagons from BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz.