Volvo XC70 review car review

Looks
This rugged version of the Volvo V70 estate car looks conservative and old fashioned, but it’s unmistakably a Volvo, and for many that will be the appeal. Interiors are what Volvo do brilliantly and this is no exception it’s comfortable, high quality, well equipped and feels built to last a lifetime.

Practicality
The XC70 is a traditional Volvo estate, with a huge and well thought out boot folding down the rear seats creates extra space when you need it. The leather seats fitted to all models are ergonomically designed to offer excellent support, leaving you with no aches after hours at the wheel.

Driving
It has a raised suspension and the option of fourwheel drive, which means it can cope well will rough ground or bad road conditions. Around town the XC70 feels like the large car it is and although visibility is good it’s length meant we made good use of the parking sensors fitted as standard.

Running Costs
The entrylevel D4 diesel engine is our choice, Volvo claim it will give around 64 mpg, with a road tax bill of just £30 figures some small city cars can’t match. Don’t be tempted by it’s 3.0litre petrol engine which has poor fuel economy and extremely high road tax.

Safety
As you’d expect from a Volvo a large amount of safety equipment is fitted as standard, ‘City Safety’ operates at low speeds and will automatically brake the car if it detects an obstacle in your path, there’s technology to improve braking and help prevent skids and seats designed to reduce whiplash in an accident.

GH Verdict
If you’re looking for a safe, solid, dependable car, with 4×4 capabilities, then this is a good choice but it’s an expensive option, and we think there are more interesting and affordable alternatives.