2008 Volvo XC70
Based on analysis of 32 XC70 reviews and test drives.
Volvo XC70 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Volvo XC70 ranks 2 out of 4 Luxury Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 32 published reviews and test drives of the Volvo XC70, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The redesigned XC70 station wagon's light off-roading capabilities make it a practical alternative to an SUV, but the engine is somewhat underpowered for the vehicle's weight. However, the XC70 also offers good handling, a Swedish Modern interior and state-of-the-art safety features.
There's a lot to like about the redesigned Volvo XC70 station wagon -- so much so that it was a finalist for Motor Trend's 2008 Car of the Year Award. Many reviewers say one of the XC70's most likeable features is its off-roading capability, described as a very practical alternative to an SUV. The wagon also boasts supportive seats that are more than adequate for lengthy trips. And not surprisingly, given Volvo's reputation, the XC70 gets strong reviews for its safety features.
However, our analysis also shows the 2008 Volvo XC70's engine is merely adequate, especially with the wagon's increased curb weight. If you're interested in a luxury wagon, don't rule out the strong performance of a BMW 3-Series Wagon.
- "Those of you who are tired of a sport ute's overbearing size and gas-guzzling nature should take a closer look at the all-new, 2008 Volvo XC70. It offers better driving dynamics and fuel economy with many of the features you would expect in an SUV." -- Road and Track
- "It's still a smart way to carry five people and their effects without the typical aftereffects: poor gas mileage, poor visibility, and poor standing among the greens." -- The Car Connection
- "It has the Swedish Modern design and high degree of refinement and comfort expected from a Volvo, SUV-like interior configurability and poor-road capability, and the full complement of Volvo safety technology, both passive and active." -- The Auto Channel
- "For 2008, the XC70 has been redesigned, although many observers will be hard-pressed to notice. Volvo never does things by leaps and bounds, preferring turtle-like increments. You'd have to park one next to its predecessor to pick out the differences." -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- "Basically, these cars never beg to be flogged. You won't have to leave early to get the kids to soccer practice, but neither will you be tempted to take the long, twisty road home." -- Motor Trend
XC70 Performance - 7.7 (Good)
The 2008 Volvo XC70's new six-cylinder engine is only adequate when called on to propel the 400 plus pounds the XC70 has gained since the 2007 model. But the big news is the XC70s off-road capabilities, which transform it into an SUV lite. "Volvo calls the new XC70 a 'family adventure vehicle'," The Auto Channel says, "and it fits that description well." Continue with our full Performance Review for more on the XC70's ability to withstand treacherous terrain. continue
XC70 Exterior - 7.9 (Good)
Our analysis finds the new XC70's exterior style is an improvement over the previous model's. Motor Trend says "perhaps the most welcome improvement is aesthetic, especially in the case of the XC70, which swaps its homely matte gray facade for a sleeker, mostly body-colored prow that incorporates the latest Volvo cues." Check out our Volvo XC70 Photo Gallery for a better idea of the new styling cues, or find out how Volvo has fused the wagon's previous outdoorsy feel with a more polished design in our full Exterior Review. continue
XC70 Interior - 8.2 (Very Good)
The interior of the 2008 Volvo XC70 is stylish, the materials attractive and the seats comfortable. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel says "the XC70 offers plenty to satisfy people with a taste for luxury." Check out the Volvo XC70 Photo Gallery to see the trademark free-standing center stack inside the XC70, or read about the wagon's impressive 71.4 cubic feet of cargo space in our Interior Review. continue
XC70 Safety - NA
The 2008 XC70 just wouldn't be a Volvo without a large number of safety features. The Boston Globe reports "safety features abound in the XC70." But the 2008 XC70 has yet to be rated in federal government crash tests. Our full Safety Review gives more information on the XC70's preparedness for an accident, as well as featured precautions to prevent one. continue
XC70 Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Volvo XC70 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Volvo XC70 comes with a four-year/50,000-mile limited new vehicle warranty. Continue with our full XC70 Reliability Review to learn more. continue
