Volvo XC70 D5 AWD SE Start/Stop Geartronic 5dr Car Review - January 2012

With a combined mpg of 41.5 and a 2400cc diesel engine, the Volvo XC70 D5 AWD SE has got to be one of the most impressive Volvo’s in terms of driving power, and certainly the most surprising.
It reaches its top speed of 127 mph a whole 2 seconds faster than the XC90 Volvo’s (so in 8.3 seconds), generating a notable 212 bhp at 4200rpm.

Handling of the XC70 is equally impressive. The 4x4 has a 6-speed gearbox and 20 valves, and the low-down torque that produces 324 lb-ft power at 1500-3000 rpm allows for a fantastically smooth acceleration. There is also a lot less body roll than the previous version, making it lighter and more agile: so much so that it’s hard to believe you are driving such a large car.

On top of that, the steering is more balanced, the engine notably quiet, and the driving position has been adjusted to perfection. So for a fun family-car it ticks all the right boxes.

The Volvo XC70 D5 AWD SE still keeps some of the V70s traditional shape, but has been tweaked slightly to create sleeker, more elegant lines that hide its 4828 size. The XC70s bonnet now merges smoothly with the square grille, and the headlights are distinctly modern. The five door car got just as good a makeover on the inside, with five comfy leather seats and a spacious 1600 litre boot (seats down) with lots of storage space making it ideal for holidays, family days out or even carrying your dogs.

The practical car is also full of clever gizmos set as standard, such as the blue tooth system, 525 sat-nav, mp3 connectivity, cd, power-steering, alloy wheels, DSTC stability control, central locking, climate control, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, cruise control and rear-parking sensors.

The Volvo XC70 D5 AWD SE wins not only in driving quality and looks, but in Euro NCAP ratings too. With an overall Euro NCAP of 5 stars, it’s not surprising that the car comes with a 3 year warranty or 60,000 miles. Clearly, the 4x4 is extremely safe and reliable, making it the perfect driving vehicle for a family.

In terms of practicality, the XC70 D5 AWD SE again seems to win hands down. With its endless list of gadgets and gizmos, along with its comfortable and roomy interior, it’s more than convenient.

The downside of the Volvo XC70 D5 AWD SE is the cost. Of course a 4x4 is never going to be cheap, but at £36,000 this particular XC70 is not a bad price considering all of its benefits. Though more expensive than the V70, it’s important to remember that it not only oozes more style, but it has far better handling and driving quality, which for some makes all the difference.

The Volvo XC70 emits just 179g/km CO2, which is actually a lot less than that of the XC90 range, which is surprising giving the torque power on this vehicle. Being in Tax Band I means insurance ratings for the XC70 are relatively low, and as the petrol tank holds up to 70 litres capacity, the running costs overall make up for the initial price of the car.

When looking at depreciation costs, you need not worry when it comes to the Volvo XC70 D5 AWD SE. With great reliability, practicality and safety ratings, the depreciation rate is minimal, and because the car is still in pretty high demand, there would be no problem selling it at a good deal. All in all, the Volvo XC70 is great value for money.