2008 Volvo V70 Review

What the reviewers like:
The redesigned 2008 Volvo V70 is bigger than before, with more cargo space than other station wagons in its class. It seats four adults comfortably, reviews say. Its plush interior includes an upgraded audio system, and reviewers also like the Volvo V70's slew of new safety features.

What the reviewers don't like:
The Volvo V70 costs thousands more than some other wagons that are just as roomy and powerful, critics note. Fuel economy isn't that impressive.

EPA fuel economy estimate: 16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway

2008 Volvo V70 review highlights

Vast cargo space is the Volvo V70 station wagon's main asset in reviews. The new, bigger Volvo V70 provides more behind-the-backseat luggage space than other full-size premium station wagons including the Audi A4 Avant (*est. $32,000 to $39,400) and BMW 3-Series wagon (*est. $34,200 to $36,100), and more legroom in the back seat than the sporty Subaru Outback (*est. $21,995 to $32,195), reviewers say. However, all-wheel-drive is not standard on the Volvo V70, as it is on the Subaru Outback and the Volvo V70's close relative, the Volvo XC70 (*est. $36,420). The already-safe Volvo V70 wagon has added a stronger body structure for more crash safety, two built-in booster seats that can be adjusted as children grow, and longer side-curtain airbags to better protect backseat passengers, all of which earn praise in more than one review. But if you're attracted to the Volvo V70's powerful engine, one critic points out that the Dodge Magnum (*est. $23,420 to $37,905) and Volkswagen Passat wagon (*est. $25,115 to $39,140) both pack power at a lower price, although the reviewer notes that the Volvo V70 appeals to buyers who would never consider the more macho-looking Dodge Magnum.

The newly redesigned 2008 Volvo V70 station wagon doesn't yet feature in many comparative reviews, although KBB.com and Business Week do pit the Volvo V70 against other wagons. Although not comparative, a useful review at NewCarTestDrive.com exhaustively details the Volvo V70 wagon's new features, while CarCritic.com and Automobile Magazine provide more concise overviews of the redesigned Volvo V70.

Also see full report: Station Wagons

*In order of credibility (see our Ratings Criteria).

1. KBB.com
2007 Volvo V70 2.4
Editors of KBB.com

The Volvo V70 makes KBB.com's "Recommended Shopping List" for wagons. This review compares the Volvo V70 wagon with its competitors the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Dodge Magnum and Volkswagen Passat station wagons.

2. Business Week
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Best Cargo Room
Matt Vella
7-Jul-06

BusinessWeek.com names the 2007 version of the Volvo V70 the "Best Cargo Room" wagon, noting that it bests competitors from Audi, Jaguar, Saab and Subaru. This review also includes pricing and fuel consumption data.

3. New Car Test Drive
2008 Volvo V70
Larry Edsall

This review outlines everything that's new in the redesigned 2008 Volvo V70. Most new features revolve around safety; the review lists built-in child booster seats, extended curtain airbags, a stronger body, better side airbags and whiplash protection.

4. CarCritic.com
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2008 Volvo V70 Review
Don Vorderman

Reviewer Don Vorderman combines the Volvo V70 with its sister, the all-wheel-drive Volvo XC70, in this review. Vorderman evaluates Volvo's recent makeover of the exterior, interior, dimensions and power of what he calls "the queen of all wagons."

5. Automobile Magazine
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Preview: 2008 Volvo V70/XC70
Editors of Automobile Magazine

This brief review includes pricing information for the redesigned 2008 Volvo V70. It gives an overview of what's new, including engine options.

Also see full report: Station Wagons

2008 Volvo V70 Review