VOLVO V70

VOLVO V70     

For Solid construction; stylish interior; superb seats

Against Dull to drive; dated engines; choppy ride

Verdict Everything a Volvo estate should be, but rivals are better to drive

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What's it like?

Practicality is the V70’s strong point; the load space is enormous and the rear seats fold down flat. The boot is well thought out, too, with luggage nets and tie-down hooks to stop items rolling around while in transit. Occupants are treated to extremely comfortable seats and the dashboard has a pleasingly minimalist design. The cabin is well built, with no scratchy plastics to be seen. The wide range of petrol and diesel engines ensures there’s something for everyone, although it’s the diesel options that impress most, offering good fuel economy and impressive towing ability. Unfortunately, the ride is far from perfect and even minor bumps and road scars are felt in the cabin. The car settles down at speed, though, making the V70 an adept motorway cruiser. Body roll is well controlled, although the vague steering discourages you from driving enthusiastically.

What are the running costs?

Pick the right model and running costs should be reasonable. The 2.0-litre diesel returns a respectable average of 48mpg, and even the largest D5 engine does 44mpg. The economy-oriented DRIVe model is the most efficient, delivering up to 74mpg. The T5 petrol engine claims an average of 32mpg, but it’s notoriously thirsty, with many owners averaging only 25mpg. As you’d expect, the larger T6 is even less efficient, with a claimed average of 25mpg. Even the entry-level 2.0-litre petrol doesn’t perform particularly well, with an average of 33mpg. Insurance costs are reasonable, with all but the T5 engine in R-Design trim sitting in insurance groups 20-29. Pick a sporty version, however, and you’re looking at group 33. Servicing costs aren’t cheap, but go with a franchised dealer and you’re unlikely to be disappointed. Volvo dealers have a good reputation for looking after customers.

What should I look out for?

Volvo has issued eight recalls for the V70 since the car's launch in 2007. It is important to ensure any potential problems have been sorted, because a number of issues concern faults with safety equipment – in particular the seat belts and side-impact protection system. Cars have also been recalled because of faulty heater element valves and corroded engine-cooling fans – both of which can result in a fire. Turbochargers have also been known to fail. Blue smoke from the exhaust pipe and a shortage of engine power are signs that you should walk away, because it can cost more than £1000 to fix. The indicator stalk on the V70 has a button marked ‘Read’. Pressing and holding it will display any faults that the car’s on board computer is aware of. A readout of ‘0 messages’ is good news, although it’s not a substitute for a thorough inspection.

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