• 2009 Volvo V70

• Used Volvo V70
• Repairs Volvo V70

These scores and this review are from when the car was new.

Scorecard

Overall:	2009 Volvo V70 U.S. News Best Cars 7.8
Critics' Rating:	8.4
Performance:	7.7
Interior:	8.3
Safety:	N/A
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Pros & Cons

• Comfortable five-passenger cabin
• Advanced safety systems impress
• Simple, functional standard features
• Large cargo space

• Underpowered engine
• Disappointing fuel economy
• Fussy optional navigation system

Research Other Years

• 2010 Volvo V70
• 2008 Volvo V70

Overall, reviewers like the V70's comfortable seats, functional features, and large cargo hold. With the exception of drab grays, its fit and finish also leaves reviewers satisfied.

• "Cabin materials are padded and/or nicely grained where it matters most. Assembly quality is first rate. Standard vinyl/cloth seating surfaces feel durable and expensive, but in the gray of our test car appeared solemnly bland." -- Consumer Guide
• "The wood and leather trim in the optional Premium Package really dress up the V70's otherwise austere inside. In any form, though, the V70's cabin is a showcase of modern Swedish style, with Volvo's trademark 'floating' center stack panel and artfully designed controls." -- Edmunds
• "Sleeker exterior styling is echoed inside, where the trademark slim "floating" center console can be faced in burled walnut or an aluminum trim decorated with random lines." -- Motor Trend

Seating

Critics agree that the V70's seats are comfortable; though it accommodates four passengers better than five.

• "The V70's front seats are among the best in the business, achieving a rare combination of chiropractor-approved comfort and body-hugging support. The backseat is also comfortable, though perhaps a bit short on legroom." -- Edmunds
• "[The front seats offer] Plenty of headroom and legroom, even for taller occupants. Thin roof pillars and large glass areas combine for excellent all-around visibility.  ... [The rear seats offer] Decent space for two adults, but three across seating is acceptable only for short hops. Under-seat foot space is limited, compromising comfort when the front seats are too far back." -- Consumer Guide

Interior Features

Auto writers, on balance, appreciate the V70's simple, yet functional, controls. However, its optional navigation system earns poor reviews.

• "Measured by function and simplicity of operation, the 70s' various controls are better than those in most other luxury brands." -- AutoWeek
• "Without the [navigation] system, V70's control layout is simple and generally intuitive. Gauges are large, clearly marked, and easy to read. Several testers found the digital bar graph a poor substitute for a conventional fuel gauge." -- Consumer Guide
• "The optional navigation system is cumbersome, however, featuring a mishmash of control stalks, a handheld remote and a screen that pops out of the dash." -- Edmunds

Cargo

Reviewers are satisfied with the V70's 71.4 cubic feet of cargo space.

• "Large, boxy, nicely finished cargo area features flat folding second-row seats and handy under floor storage. A storage-lid prop and cargo tie-down points are nice touches. In cabin storage is limited to an average size glovebox and center console, as well as a few tiny cubbies." -- Consumer Guide
• "The rear seats are split 40/20/40 to accommodate various cargo-carrying needs, and a movable cargo floor is available. The front passenger seat folds down for additional cargo capacity." -- Cars.com
• "A grocery bag holder is offered for the cargo area, and a ready trash bag holder not only is built in at the back of the front center console, it's designed to hold the trash bag open for easy use." -- MSN