• 2013 Volvo C70

• 2012 Volvo C70
• Used Volvo C70
• Repairs Volvo C70

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Volvo C70 U.S. News Best Cars 7.7
Critics' Rating:	7.4
Performance:	6.8
Interior:	7.1
Safety:	9.9
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Notable for 2013

• Standard rain-sensing wipers and headlight washers

Pros & Cons

• Sleek exterior with a retractable hardtop
• Comfortable front seats

• Other convertibles are more agile
• Underpowered engine
• Confusing audio and navigation controls

Research Other Years

• 2012 Volvo C70
• 2011 Volvo C70
• 2010 Volvo C70
• 2009 Volvo C70
• 2008 Volvo C70

The 2013 Volvo C70 ranks 15 out of 20 Upscale Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 62 published reviews and test drives of the Volvo C70, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2013 Volvo C70 doesn’t perform as well as other convertibles in the class, though it offers attractive styling and a comfortable interior.

The 2013 Volvo C70 is powered by a turbocharged five-cylinder engine, which most test drivers say provides adequate power. However, they also note that the C70 lacks the power of convertibles like the BMW 3-Series and Infiniti G37. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard, which generally garners little criticism from test drivers; though one reviewer says that it seems a little dated compared to the transmissions offered in competing cars. The 2013 C70 gets an EPA-estimated 19/28 mpg city/highway, which is a bit better than the more powerful G37, but not quite as good as the Audi A5 Cabriolet. Most test drivers note that although the C70 has a comfortable ride, it doesn’t handle as well as most convertibles in the segment.

Reviewers appreciate the C70’s comfortable front seats, and note that it has more back-seat space than most convertibles in the class. The C70’s trunk is also roomy for a hardtop convertible, though some reviewers say that the cabin could use more storage space for small items. One test driver also says that while the C70’s interior is attractive, it isn’t quite as nice as what you’ll find in the Audi A5. Additionally, some critics write that the C70’s audio and navigation systems can be confusing. The 2013 Volvo C70 comes with standard features that include leather seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming and a USB Port. Optional features include heated front seats, navigation, parking sensors, an upgraded stereo and a blind spot monitoring system.

• "The 2013 Volvo C70 boasts a retractable convertible hardtop, a luxurious interior and a smooth ride, though its middling performance doesn't measure up to pricier rivals." -- Edmunds 
• "While the Volvo C70 convertible is a great open-air ride, its driving dynamics can't match the fun experienced behind the wheel of a BMW 3 Series or Audi A5 Cabriolet. The C70's resale values also fall short of its German and Japanese rivals." -- Kelley Blue Book
• “It's a step below most like-priced convertibles for all-around performance, but the C70 is a pleasant, stylish blend of top-down fun and fixed-roof security.” -- Consumer Guide (2012)
• "The C70 seems to be made for just enjoying the open road, not taking hot laps at the track. And that's alright with this girl." -- Mother Proof (2011)

Other Cars to Consider

If you want a luxury convertible that offers thrilling performance, consider the Infiniti G37. Reviewers love the G37 convertible’s powerful V6 engine and nimble handling, and the G37 also comes with more standard features than the C70.

Reviewers say that the Audi A5 Cabriolet offers attractive exterior styling and a comfortable, high-quality interior, just like the C70. However, the A5 also has slightly better fuel economy, and composed handling that reviewers love.

Compare the C70, G37 and A5 »

Details: 2013 Volvo C70

The 2013 Volvo C70 is a hardtop convertible that seats four and has front-wheel drive. A 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine and a five-speed automatic transmission are standard on all models. Three trims are available: T5 (base), T5 Premier Plus and T5 Platinum. Each trim adds to the C70’s list of interior features. For 2013, the C70 gains standard rain-sensing windshield wipers and headlight washers, but sees few other changes. As a result, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from 2011 and 2012, as well as the current model year.

See the full 2013 Volvo C70 specs »