#5

in Luxury Wagons

Based on analysis of 30 V70 reviews and test drives.

MSRP: $32,900 - $32,900
Invoice: $30,926 - $30,926
MPG: 16 City / 25 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:7.9
Performance:7.7
Exterior:7.7
Interior:8.3
Safety:NA
Reliability:6.0
  • Comfortable five-passenger cabin
  • Advanced safety systems impress
  • Simple, functional standard features
  • Large cargo space
  • Underpowered engine
  • Disappointing fuel economy
  • Fussy optional navigation system

Volvo V70 - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Volvo V70 ranks 5 out of 7 Luxury Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 30 published reviews and test drives of the Volvo V70, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Though the 2009 Volvo V70 is safe, comfortable and practical, its performance capabilities disappoint. If you're in the market for great handling, or at least good fuel economy, look elsewhere.

Unless you're a soccer mom, the 2009 Volvo V70 probably won't make your heart pitter-patter. Its lackluster performance and uninspiring exterior aside, the V70 offers loads of safety features, comfy seats, and vast cargo room. For an average family of five, it's pretty darn practical. In fact, Motor Trend writes, "In lieu of lusty emotional appeal, these all-new wagons are imbued with more of everything the Volvo faithful appreciate."

If you're shopping for a luxury wagon, be sure to put the Audi A4 Avant on your short-list. It trumps the V70 in nearly every category -- offering better fuel economy, top-notch safety scores, standard all-wheel drive, and much more. The BMW 3-Series Wagon also makes a better buy, though it's a tad more expensive.

Redesigned in 2008, the Volvo V70 station wagon carries into the 2009 model year virtually unchanged.

  • "This midsize wagon is best appreciated as the value-seeker's luxury car.  ... For shoppers looking for room, comfort, utility, and a dose of coddling, the V70 is a must see." -- Consumer Guide
  • "In sum, while the V70 is undoubtedly a competent vehicle, we'd recommend shopping around before deciding that it's the wagon for you." -- Edmunds

V70 Performance - 7.7 (Good)

Test drivers aren't impressed with the V70's performance. In addition to being underpowered, it handles so-so and has poor fuel economy. Kelley Blue Book writes, "While the new six-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine has sufficient muscle to let the V70 3.2 successfully cope with most day-to-day traffic and passing maneuvers, it won't do much to satisfy anyone with even modest enthusiast leanings." continue

V70 Exterior - 7.7 (Good)

Despite its 2008 restyling, reviewers have very little to say about the V70's design. "This isn't the first time Volvo has produced an all-new car that looks just like its predecessor," writes Car and Driver. "Clearly, the Swedish purveyor of sensible sedans and wagons is afraid of alienating his clientele." continue

V70 Interior - 8.3 (Very Good)

Critics admire the V70 for its comfortable, functional, and practical cabin. "Like the S80, the five-seat V70 has a simple, clutter-free dashboard and a floating center control panel," writes Cars.com. What's more, it provides a vast amount of cargo space. continue

V70 Safety - NA

Reviewers are impressed by Volvo's reputation for safety and the V70's advanced safety systems. "The standard driver-selectable Dynamic Stability and Traction Control system helps the V70 maintain its composure on slicker surfaces without being too intrusive, and its powerful four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes incorporate both Electronic Brake Assistance and anti-fade compensation circuitry to optimize the car's overall stopping power in emergency situations," reports Kelley Blue Book. continue

V70 Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2009 Volvo V70 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). Volvo protects the 2009 V70 with a four-year/50,000-mile new vehicle warranty. continue

Review Last Updated: 6/19/09