The XC70 is the ultimate Volvo Estate (Station Wagon)

The Volvo XC70 is essentially a jacked up V70, yet somehow, it's so much more.
Full review of a 2013 3rd generation P3 XC70 All Wheel Drive Estate / Station Wagon, sold between 2007 and 2016.
Model on test is a 2013 D5 AWD SE Lux.
#xc70 #volvoxc70 #volvo
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[@kamata93]

Hi, I own a 2008 V70 with the 2.4D variant with 163 bhp and the 6 speed Aisin gearbox. Here are some things I noticed about the car and then I will move to what needs to be checked before buying and after that. The car is very comfortable and I love it. I have the high performance sound system and it is pretty good. Having AUX port helps when listening to your own music. Seats as mentioned are very comfortable. However the seatbelts arent the most comfortable thing in the world. Volvo did it pretty weird and didnt include any adjustment for the seatbelts. I am 186cm tall and the seatbelt is constantly slipping bellow my shoulder so I have to put it back on all the time (first time I have an issue like this). I have the seat lowered to the minimum and I have the sunroof option and I have 3-4 fingers space above my head which is quite limited. I cant imagine someone taller than me fitting there without hitting the roof. The regular headlights are good enough, just make sure you put good quality bulbs in there. I have the Bosch +120% H7 and I am pretty happy with them. Now some negative things - the original size brakes are quite small - 300mm in the front. You have a few options - 300, 316 and 336mm. Everything is plug and play so I will be doing the bigger brakes for sure as the 300mm brakes feel underpowered for the weight of the car. Some people suggested using the XC60 pistons and disks (328mm) since they are 2 pistons one. The fuel consumption is kinda meh - highway above 7l/100 and city driving in winter is 11-12l which is mindblowing. Also the car is shockingly small on the inside. Passat B7 has more interior room. Toyota Avensis 2012 model is also bigger on the inside. Reliability/maintenance 1. Some cars crack either the head or the block. Most common issue is wrong coolant (red) or using cheap aftermarket timing belt kit. The auxiliary belt starts shredding and goes into the main belt and locks the engine. You start crying after that. Before buying it can be tested - when the car is cold, open the coolant tank. If you hear "psst", walk away from it. 2. Swirl flaps - Mine were pretty bad and were stuck open, which is preferable. If they were stuck closed, the car goes into limp mode and throws check engine light. I decided to go with ProParts Sweden for the kit. It was only 90 euros and included the flaps, seals and the injector metal O-rings. Original ones were around 200 euros directly from Volvo - just FYI. 3. Injectors - After some time and kms they do fail. In my part of Europe (Balkans) they can be refurbished quite cheaply. Not sure about rest of Europe but they do fail due to age, km and/or low quality diesel. 4. EGR - mine was done for. Software delete as the design itself allows it not to be plugged with a plate. Its actually quite bad if you do it. Complete removal is also not recommended. Thanks to the EGR software deletion, I opted for the cheaper swirl flaps, since the soot and dirt from it, wont go up the intake manifold itself. 5. DFP - Have to drive it on the highway at least once a weak to start regeneration. Otherwise you will need to clean it if it can be cleaned. 6. Thermostat - they do fail and OE/OEM are pretty expensive, around 150-200 euros. I used a French one (cant remember the name) which costed only 50 bucks and the car seems to work just fine. Please note that this was the full body - temp sensor and the whole body with the seal. Some people just replace the thermostat valve itself but my experience is that they do tend to leak, so better safe than sorry. 7. Engine mounts - the 2.4D engine is pretty heavy so it crushes the mounts. Its pretty high torque as well. Use only original from Volvo. Aftermarket ones are not recommended as they actually cause the engine to vibrate even more. Their rubber seems harder than the original ones. 8. Haldex - if your car is AWD, make sure it is serviced. Otherwise the pump and the bearing are pricey and not everyone can repair/replace them. 9. Suspension - Usually its pretty robust but some bushings can be worn due to mileage and age. I replaced a few on my car and it was around 350-400 euros to do so, that includes front and rear. I used Meyle HD parts as they are strengthen ones. Cant think of something else now. Will add later if I remember something.

[@JJonCars]

Great stuff! Have pinned your comment, good one for people to see if they're thinking of buying one

[@kamata93]

@@JJonCars thanks! I hope it will help!

[@PostMortemor]

I've heard AWD system is not reliable

[@ivankarastoyanov3618]

I am 195cm tall and i think the car is very spacious. Before buying i tried skoda superb and Octavia, Toyota avensis and honda accord. In my opinion the most spacious is the superb, then the xc (v) 70. the accord, avensis and Octavia are the same. When it comes to fuel consumption i have to point out that the 2.4 d with 175 hp and 6 speed manual gearbox , is very economical, considering the size and weight and engine . Mine does 6.2 combined or 46mpg.

[@thomasryan5068]

Hi Thank you for your review very detailed .enjoy the drive

[@detonator2112]

They used / still use the later 2015-2016 models in taxis here in Scandinavia. And these cars can handle incredible mileages. Numbers like 700.000 kilometers on the clock aren't uncommon. Very reliable and solid cars.

[@JJonCars]

Awesome

[@thayalansuntharalingam]

All diesels or gasoline?

[@detonator2112]

@@thayalansuntharalingam Taxis here are mostly diesels. D3, D4 and D5.

[@thayalansuntharalingam]

@@detonator2112 I rented d5 s80 when I was in London USA volvo do not sell their diesels.

[@tonywickins7818]

Hi we bought our 2007 XC70 2.4 D5 AWD in 2013 at 107k (now 165k) to replace our V70 petrol to tow our caravan and absolutely love it! So comfortable and great for long journeys using the cruise control, really relaxed driving, smooth and easy to use 6 speed gearbox and the last with a proper handbrake. We bought a 2013 XC60 in 2017 keeping the XC70 until we were sure about the XC60 kept it 9 months and sold it preferring the XC70 which is more comfortable, better equipped for drivers who like to be in control knowing what's going on engine wise, better audio system and of course a proper handbrake which comes into it's own in snow! I disagree when you say it's not a drivers car - it is just in a different vain, we have 2 Porsches and if I could only keep just one car it would be the XC70 as it's a great allrounder.

[@liberte94]

I have a 2013 XC70 awd d5. This car is going to be 310,000 km soon, and it is still running without any trouble, and the great sound of Dynaudio while driving is enough to relieve the driver's fatigue. Very very stable, comfortable ride and driving stability are the best differences. If there are no major issues, it is a car I would like to drive for another 10 years. from in S. Korea..

[@JJonCars]

Thanks for watching all the way from South Korea :) good to hear you like the car!

[@jill5006]

I have a 2002, 2005 and 2007 xc70 , 2013 xc60 and 2015 Volvo XC90 Volvo for life !

[@andycarp1288]

Hi I own a 2016 xc70 and I have to say it’s the best car I’ve ever owned,extremely comfortable,reasonably good on diesel massive boot area & I love the way dog guard just easily flips up out of they way when not in use I’ve had the car for about a year now and can honestly say I cannot fault it.

[@kacump]

Which engine? Im going to see D4, 2400cc awd on sunday. Im thrilled🎉

[@andycarp1288]

I’ve got the 2.4 d5 engine ( the bulletproof engine) nothing for one of these to do 300k miles and still go on

[@kacump]

@@andycarp1288 counting on mine to go for a decade at 15-20k a year😀 Anthing to look at in used car?

[@vegansheldon4087]

I have a 2014 xc70 now about over 2 years. I have had other volvo wagons in the past. This one drives the best and I really appreciate the higher suspension.

[@blakehemingway2691]

I own a 14 plate XC70 D5. Just completed a 6 week 5000 mile tour of France, Spain and Portugal with no issues whatsoever. It has now got 178000 on it and the only thing is the tailgate struts are beginning to weaken. You tube shows an easy fix. The best car I've ever had by a country mile.

[@willisdunn4325]

Great video JJ, pleased Jack in the back had his own cup holder.

[@JJonCars]

Cheers Willis! He likes his creature comforts :)

[@justincase6645]

My own xc70 is from 2005, had her since 2016, one of the family , the 4th Volvo ive owned

[@dgbourdon1325]

I have one of these and I love it! it's a stonking machine.....with loads of character!

[@georgedavidla]

I'm crazy about XC70s and old Volvos. I enjoyed this awesome review! Thank you.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks George!

[@April.Wasabi]

2013 xc70 t6 ; first time owner... absolutely love her!

[@alk7934]

We recently purchased a 2014 XC70 T6. We love it. Very quiet, comfortable, and solid. We absolutely love it. We have not had a car that felt like this since we had our 91 Cadillac Seville. Only complaint is the infotainment system. The GPS no longer works, which is a downside. We hope we get many reliable years from it. Well... at least until the loan is paid off.

[@SterlingSigurdsen]

I have a fully loaded 2015.5 XC70 T6 with the Polestar tune, and it is a dream to drive on long trips from here in Vermont to Florida. And in the winter months snow is no issues with my studded Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 tyres.

[@JJonCars]

What a sweet car!

[@6770connor]

Bought an XC70 D5 SE Lux late 2009, got all the cameras and radars, heated and cooled seat, double glazing windows and much more! Have taken it off road several times and it’s a surprisingly capable car. Long distance cruising is quiet and effortless thanks to the radar cruise control. Very happy with it.

[@marc7983]

59 plate means nothin to anyone outside the UK.

[@RickiRobertson]

Yeah love the xc70. I have a 3.2 SE 240hp and it's all you need. Love how quiet it is and goes fast enough.

[@theresapratt5213]

Just bought a 2014 Platinum last week. I live outside of Death Valley and I'm planning a trip there and will update you in a week or two....Thanks for your video it was Awesome!

[@JJonCars]

Great, please do, it's the perfect car for it!

[@piewisznia9704]

Nice! Thanks for helping me learn more about the newer xc70’s. I have a 2005 w/ 250,000 miles and the places I’ve driven it is unbelievable! Off road where you’ll only see Jeeps, 4wd trucks…and an Xc70 Volvo 😂 Now I’m looking to go newer so your video really helped 🙌 many thanks!

[@JJonCars]

Awesome, glad the video was helpful. Good luck in your search for your next XC70 :)

[@AWMJoeyjoejoe]

Ive got the V70 D5 and i love it. Best car ive ever owned.

[@grahamlamond3179]

I have this car and three points to note: 1. You can control all the Sensus functions from the scroll wheel and exit buttons on the right hand side of the steering wheel, or use the voice function which can be customised to recognise your voice. 2. Mine didn’t have the power socket in the boot but you can buy this as a plug and play accessory from Volvo and just drill the hole in the side panel. It’s not expensive but you need to ask for the wiring diagram as it’s not in the kit. Once I had that it explains which connectors to plug into and it was easy. The socket is always live so great for running a cool box or blowing up tyres, air beds etc., when the car is off. 3. You can buy the sunglasses holder from Volvo as an extra and it replaces the grab handle by the driver’s head Overall I love this car for all the reasons mentioned in the video. The D5 gives me 42mpg at 70mph and 47mpg cross country at 50-60mph in flowing traffic. 35mpg around town. The trick is to keep the revs below 2k as much as possible and let the huge torque work in your favour. The auto transmission works happily like this too. Having said that, whilst it isn’t a driver’s car, it’s overtaking ability is immense. Knock it into Sport and you’re gone. Biggest plus point? It’s so relaxing that going anywhere is a non-event. Biggest downside? It’s so relaxing that the journey is completely forgettable!

[@JJonCars]

Cheers Graham, that's good info! Haha 😂 at least you arrive at your destination unflustered and relaxed

[@grahamlamond3179]

I forgot to mention the creaking centre console. I dismantled it and fitted self adhesive anti-squeak tape. It’s now solid and I have no creaks at all. Shouldn’t have to do this on a car of this price though. 🙄

[@JJonCars]

@@grahamlamond3179 agreed - though it's good to know it can be sorted

[@andunabu3238]

On my 3rd Volvo and only change them at about 300k miles. Current one is the D5 185 SE LUX with 200k miles it’s bullet proof. I tow a lot as I have a farm so it goes off road often. It’s been excellent with no issues. Rarely in the back but was last week and it is so comfortable and quiet. Best car I’ve owned including better than the a 2 Landcruisers we’ve had.

[@andunabu3238]

@@wilbobagins was done by dealer at 90k and I did it again 180k. Did notice the gear change got better and more positive after so will do again soon.

[@ZaZa-ra]

Which land cruisers? Why was the XC70 better?

[@hungryboy424]

I have a 2011 D5 AWD, in Caspian Blue, Love it, put the auto box in 'S' and it scares the hell out you. 2 Ton rocket, brilliant in snow on factory fitted tyres too.

[@magnusshawn4698]

I have a 2012 XC70 T6 188,000 miles. And yes it has the hill descent control. Absolutely love the power! I can get 27-28 mpg no worries. I also have a 2008 v70 fwd 3.2 with 250,000 miles. And I had a 2004 XC 70 5cyl turbo. Big fan of these cars. Great video. Thank you. I had a Subaru recently as well. When it comes to comfort, there is NO comparison. Volvo hands down winner.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Magnus. Glad you like the car. Not many cars can beat or get close to Volvo for comfort

[@Rjhs001]

Hi JJ. Nice car and the China tea cup totally cracked me up.

[@JJonCars]

Haha glad you liked that bit John. I was genuinely just looking for something around the house that was the right size to show how much they raised it 😄

[@ivarmarkusson382]

i got a 08 d5, a car that i picked up at a used car lot after i sold our family car and never intended to own, but its a great car, propably the best family car we have owned, and we went from a new ish suv crossover thingie.

[@davidgold5961]

7:10 Volvo sells sunglass holders which replace the grab handles, so in theory you could have anywhere from 1 to 4 sunglass holders in the Volvo. They hold the sunglasses and include a cover that folds down over them in the same color as the headliner.

[@tennisfitapp]

Loving it nice review mate

[@JJonCars]

Thank you!

[@sorenfogdenius6393]

Very nice car. I own a 2,5 T AWD, leather interior, geartronic ,2005, Polestar engineered. I am very pleased with the car ;-)

[@Elliottcam]

Great video

[@AmandaWalker]

I have a 2015 XC70 T6 with the Polestar tuning package, and I absolutely love it. In cargo mode it will carry more than most SUVs, but it drives like a car, not a truck (and as you note, doesn't look out of place anywhere).

[@calvinrammel1544]

Have a 2004 xc70 as my first car and i’m going to upgrade to a newer version soon because i love that thing

[@paramesvaridasa5167]

Got V70 XC T6 So happy my last Volvo was 1983 two door coupe glad I came back

[@JJonCars]

Omg, the 2 door coupe... Bertone? Sweet car

[@terrydonegan1622]

I really fancy 1 which is why I'm here. Thank you

[@agnesf2659]

As an XC70 owner and a MB GLE580 owner, I can assure you that the seat comfort on an 10+ yr-old XC70 is indeed more comfortable than what a latest GLE has to offer. Though my 2022 GLE has massage feature, XC70 is the best comfortable car for cross-Canada multiple-day road trips while GLE still makes my lower back pain after about 500 kms of drive.

[@JJonCars]

Can't beat a Volvo for comfort!

[@tonyblount991]

Wonderful video on a great car by JJ l love it 😜👍

[@JJonCars]

Cheers Tony!

[@sambaxrock]

my 2008 XC70 was the best car I've ever owned. It's the a luxury soccer mom tank. The minimalism and quietness of the cabin is unparalleled. I wish they had the D5 in USA, I would buy one again.

[@JJonCars]

I wish they had the T6 in the UK 😄

[@generalinformation5284]

I've had a number of Volvos including two S60Rs and a V70R. My 2015 XC70 T6 is definitely the best of the bunch. I added a set of 20" second hand factory wheels and the handling improved significantly. Caspian blue with black interior... I'll drive it until the wheels fall off!

[@JJonCars]

These memories are what make cars special to us!

[@MrRickp78]

Good review. I have a late 2015 D5 AWD 220hp euro 6 with added Polestar (so now 230hp). I've had it from a few month's old and it's such a great versatile family car. These are great for long journeys, averages 40 mpg and goes like the clappers if you want it too. When the time comes to replace it, I really do not know what to change it for! To me, it's such a good all-round car and I will be sad to see it go. I do quite like the V90 CC, but no distinctive 5 pot engines and compromised boot due to the sloping rear screen.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Richard. You gotta keep this car as long as you can then! It can pretty much do everything.

[@musiclights3897]

I recently bought a Japanese import XC70 T6 Lux spec (2011 vehicle).. Only covered 47k miles in 12 years from its previous owner. I have covered about 1000 miles since I bought it so far but what an excellent car it is to drive - extremely comfortable and the T6 is quiet and torquey. Around 29 mpg which I think isn't too bad with petrol being cheaper than diesel anyway. My previous car was an Audi A4 quattro diesel which I kept for 13+ years but the Volvo is in a different class. A useful feature is the settings for the magnetic based dampers - I've set it to 'Sport' - seems to be a good compromise of roadholding / comfort.

[@fredford7642]

Good video! I have a 2006 Volvo XC70, great car, replaced a low mileage Cadillac SRX ( unbelievable piece of junk! ) low mileage, because it was always disabled. The body was superb, the floor and sub frame, ( what there was of it ) was rusty. The Volvo is so very positive on the road. No rust on the upper body, and none on the floor and frame, GREAT! The seats are very comfortable. Highway acceleration is very good. I have had it now for six months, and can only rave about it.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Fred. We didn't get the SRX over here (or many Cadillacs over here whatsoever). I like the idea that a car is low mileage because it barely ever works 😂 Glad you like the car!

[@markcarpenter8250]

Very good report and useful info provided if you are looking to buy this model.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Mark 👍

[@pasqualezarro5216]

I've driven this car for about 5 years now and I'm still coming back and watching this as though it's the 1st day I drove it. These cars are really something to hold deer in the coming decades as auto manufacturers absolutely destroy production quality and user experience all around. I strongly recommend replacing all engine mounds at the 10 year mark and replacing the torque mounts with IPD brand polyurethane upgraded versions. The amounts in these cars allow for a lot of slack equating and comfort but is stiff enough the motor really allows it to stretch its legs.

[@fiodor991]

In my 2007 I’ve raised suspension another 30mm and put 19 inch wheels with 55mm tyres. Plus fitted side skirts and genuine Volvo roof box. Now looks like a really monster and build as a tank.

[@deafmango]

Is it the facelifted model and manual?

[@fiodor991]

@@deafmango it’s 2-nd generation before facelift. Looks same as on this video. And automatic.

[@deafmango]

@@fiodor991 oh I thought this was facelift lol, I saw on autortrader (Uk) a £3,945 manual one same generation as in this vid but 180k miles ( 2008 )

[@keithmccann6601]

We have a 2014 XC70 D5 - it's a really good family car - super comfy, loads of room and very solid and safe feeling - it's not the most agile Volvo we've ever owned though - the front wheel drive cars are actually better on the motorway but the AWD's come into their on snow and ice and just get there!!! For us, it's the latest in a very long line of Volvo estates we've owned over the last 30+ years - They were brilliant when the kids were small, especially for holidays, and these days we can do a light removal without breaking a sweat - we've not spent our own money on a car that wasn't a Volvo since 1992 so we are definitely fans of the brand :)

[@JJonCars]

My parents had a succession of Volvo 240s in the 90's. Got fond memories of them!

[@justanroberts1786]

I have a 2015 2.4 D5, 6 speed manual. I wanted an auto but this was such a great deal I couldn't let it get by. Had it for a year now and absolutely love it. Sadly I don't have the power adapter in the boot but it's not a major problem for me. Have always been a Volvo man and I have to say that this is the best one I've had

[@JJonCars]

Awesome. You can at least be happy in that you have something rare in the manual XC70, nearly all of them appear to be autos. The owner of this car shares the same sentiment, he's had Volvos for 50 years and they just keep getting better :)

[@ghunt9146]

The wires&plug are still behind the boot side panel, just get a 2nd hand 12v socket, make a hole & hey presto. Seems very cheapskate deleting it from the last models. But Ford?

[@albertthompson9915]

Nice review.

[@JJonCars]

Thank you :)

[@albertthompson9915]

@@JJonCars thanks,I have been looking at lots of these reviews as I am hoping to pick up an old P2 a 07 reg with 160k miles next week.

[@JJonCars]

@@albertthompson9915 oh nice, it's just run in then 😄

[@cotswoldsafety5749]

Very helpful.

[@Tank_Facts]

Just picked up a used USDM XC70 T6. It's beautiful and platinum plus trim with a few of the fixings. Excellently maintained, and I'm excited to see how far it can go. I can't explain what it's like going from a NA inline 6 to a turbo 6 as my previous was a 3.6r outback, but I was absolutely floored at just how much pickup it had. It's not the only thing, but it's certainly something I appreciate. The only real gripes I have is if you tend to lean your leg on the center console as a taller person might do while driving, the trim can push into you uncomfortably and the entire vehicle's plastic assembly likes to creak just as the leather would.

[@JJonCars]

Totally, I remember it creaking away every time my knee touched it, lol. Can imagine the T6 performs rather well.

[@Tank_Facts]

@@JJonCars Fantastically. There's hardly a gasp for air between 40-60 and again at 60-70mph. The gearing serves it well.

[@russellbennett8516]

Great review. I have a D5 AWD in Ice White. Shame the wing mirrors 'moan' when you lock it. Great power if not a bit scary. Mine is sadly missing the power outlet in the boot. Bit unsure of the scratched aluminum finish on the interior but what a car!

[@JJonCars]

Cheers Russell! Yeah, that scratched aluminium design is very strange, doesn't really seem to fit with the minimalist design

[@georgehofgren6123]

I have a 2010 XC70 here in the US. Gas is cheaper here, but both inline 6 cylinder versions are Amazing up at high speed. They just hunker down and so quiet and smooth, like a jet plane. Sadly, the main reason for this the I-6 motor, which was a feat of engineering, was discontinued and only 4cyl are now sold in the states. Everything you say in this video is absolutely True. Pretty much nothing holds a candle to this car, even a decade later. Great review, thank you ~

[@JJonCars]

Thanks George! Glad you enjoyed the review. They are great cars :)

[@Christerart]

I have two of these - a 2005 Euro3 D5 SE (P2 Facelift) and a 2008 Euro4 D5 SE Lux (P3 like the one you are driving) with Volvo's Polestar. They are both Geartronic. The 2005 (you are wrong here) has the 163 hp version of the D5 and regularly gives 55+ mpg over the road whereas the 2008 barely touch the 40mpg (partly because the Polestar makes it a very responsive powerful engine with lots of torque and hence a lot of fun to drive. They have both been extremely reliable. They both look and drive like new cars. Buying used, make sure the transmission fluid has been changed (Volvo states it is For Life - it isn't and is not included in regular service) as well as the cam and aux belt.

[@JJonCars]

Nice cars. What am I wrong about? Good to hear they are reliable! Agreed - auto gearboxes should always be serviced really, no matter what any manufacturer says :)

[@Christerart]

@@JJonCars You missed that the original Euro3 D5 was 163hp - when the euro4 version came out (in 2006 or late 2005) the hp was raised to 185 to compensate for the additional Euro4 requirements. The 163 Euro3 D5 is regarded as the ultimate D5 - great reliability and excellent mpg. Last fall on a trip to Isle of Skye - 1,100 mile round trip, my instrument panel showed 62.8 mpg when parked at home. That car now has 204K and the engine is sweet as a nut - but then I take care of my cars. - in the states before I moved here fall of 2009 my 940SE auto showed 310K miles and the engine had never had anything but regular service. Everything worked, A/C, sunroof worked, interior looked like new..:) The XC70 is my favourite Volvo apart from the 1800 and 1800ES I had a long time ago - and that includes two C70, a bevy of V70, gas and diesel...:)

[@JJonCars]

Ooh, 1800ES, what a beautiful car. I certainly have a soft spot for old Volvos - my parents had a succession of 240 estates when I was a kid - used to sit in the rear facing third row of seats with my brother. The XC70 is in many ways the ultimate example of what a Volvo should be, so I can understand why it's your favourite.

[@Christerart]

@@JJonCars You learn too late in life you should never sell your cars - on the other hand - if you move continents it's a bit of a hassle to move them around..:)

[@magnusshawn4698]

I have the 2012 T6 here in the US. Love it. It’s got 205,000 miles on it now. I’m hoping to get 300,000 out of it.

[@djmidg]

Great review.🤩 I bought a Japanese import 2010 XC70 T6 with 45k miles and it's a complete gem. The additional power is always welcomed, and I'm happy to pay the extra fuel costs given the low miles and excellent condition the car is in. If you're prepared to invest the time to undertake basic servicing and maintenance yourself, owning this car makes financial sense. If you want to go one step further, you could invest in software to unlock servicing, maintenance and upgrade potential, e.g. using D5T5 VDASH software. This was extremely useful in converting my own car to UK spec. Such software also unlocks the specific part numbers for your car, making parts replacement much easier and cheaper. I somehow disagree with the comments about handling in thos review though, as the Sport setting really sharpens the handling of the car into BMW / Mercedes territory. 👍👍👍😁

[@JJonCars]

T6 😁 Superb!

[@SportsCarAdvisors]

Great review. I have a 2008 XC70 3.2 6cyl - it's been a great car, not cheap to keep. Love the quiet cabin, seats are amazing. Great turning radius too. My car is white and the paint quality is amazing, holds up great over time! Very solid feeling cars. Practical and useful vehicle. I did a brief review of my car on my channel.

[@wallycustard1281]

Why isn't it cheap? What's causing it to be expensive?

[@SportsCarAdvisors]

@@wallycustard1281 I had to do a catalytic converter, that was not cheap. Wheel bearings and some other things.

[@adamciemniewski764]

I Love my XC70 D5 AWD 2010.

[@ivankarastoyanov3618]

I've got 2010 2.4 d drive, manual xc70. It's all i need, big spacious estate with good clearance. I don't need 4x4 but I i am really happy with the ground clearance. It's fast enough, i can easily do 46mpg average, and having less tech being super basic model to me means less money for maintenance and less things to go wrong. I can only find two annoying things it feels a bit like boat (i prefer the v70 suspension which is a bit stiffer), and the 220 road tax. All in all great car, very comfy for long journeys and economic.

[@zaphodbeeblebrox4884]

Great review. Probably one of the best car, as Volvo says "FOR LIFE". We have 3 Volvos V40 D4, V50 T5 and XC70 D5 with polestar AT. It feels like XC70 is more respectful on the road or maybe I am a better driver :). M66-manual transmission is a unicorn, especially in NZ. Service and proper maintenance are the keys to Volvo's longevity (old-school servicing interval)!

[@JJonCars]

Thank you! That's a nice selection of Volvos :)

[@gabriels32]

I've had XC70 2002 but after the accidental damage caused on building site was written off I purchased XC70 D5 2008 and XC60 D5 2010 and I can say Volvo for life

[@63mlya]

I have a 2002 XC70 with over 300K miles & a 2009 XC70 T6 & love them both... I live in the US so they both use regular gas instead of diesel fuel... Drive Safely...

[@Milk_Bone]

Bought a 2009 xc70 used at 65,000 miles. Already experiencing those increased maintenance costs, but I love the thing and hope to bring it to 200k+ miles

[@georgehofgren6123]

No reason that you can't take it another 100k miles even further than that.... Remember to warm your car a little and drive slowly at first. Don't do unnecessary repairs and learn what (very few) things break. Lubricate the tailgate release handle, and work it free as it binds up 👍 G-luck ~

[@foxbox2879]

My XC70 is from the first month mark for production. I have daily driven it for 3 years now doing delivery work. It's safe to safe I put 150 miles on it a day+.. As an American, the euro quality with the cheap Ford part maintenance is so awesome. Mine is a 08 3.2L, most basic of them all. Typically manufactures mess up with the first edition of a series with cars, but mine has made me a Volvo owner for life. I do all the maintenance myself, and going from Mercedes, to 1980s jeeps because Mercs made me mad ( lol ) to this has been the perfect middle ground when it comes to DIY tolerance for me.

[@foxbox2879]

It's not a driver's car, but it's a daily driver's car ;) And it's SO PRACTICAL that I get to have some fun, but also get all the pros of a SUV minus the fuel price xp When I compared it to the XC90 at the fealer, i couldn't sleep/lay back in the back of the SUV comfortably. I travel across the U.S. to see family ( literally the XC in the XC70 ) so this saves a ton in hotel costs. Also gives me more freedom. The back of these are insane.. I'm 6ft, 3 inches, and I still have extra room at my feet in the back.

[@JJonCars]

That is impressive as you're right there are often problems with the very first versions of a car. So it's cool they managed to get it right straight away. Great car, thanks for sharing :)

[@g0fvt]

Very happy with my D5 SE LUX, a pleasure to drive. Quite enough performance for this category of vehicle, sensibly economical for such a large vehicle too.

[@JJonCars]

Nice one, great spec 👍

[@g0fvt]

@@JJonCars thank you for the reply, the car continues to grow on me, various features that make you realise that someone actually thought about the design. Regarding the storage in the front there are actually pouches on the front of the front seats. Not huge but great for a phone or a woolly hat. Mine is the 6 speed automatic, no Dual mass flywheel to worry about and thoroughly suits the relaxing driving experience. Every passenger has commented how comfortable the car is, this generation of Volvo has a lot of parts raided from Ford and the JLR products of the time. This handily gives you a wider range of sources for service items. I still enjoy hooligan cars with hard suspension and manual gearboxes but for real life this is a wonderful car. A lot more elegant and under-stated than boxy SUVs too.. but I am biased.

[@Early2000sPs2games]

Good for ski trips

[@JJonCars]

True that

[@SLINGSHOTWORLDTV]

I have the 2.9L twin turbo petrol T6 Polestar and it IS a 'driver's car'. I utterly adore it. 329bhp and 480N. It is my psychotic viking.

[@ghunt9146]

I retro fitted a real dipstick on mine, late 2013.

[@JJonCars]

Yes, though I haven't driven a diesel CLK, I know they are punchy engines and reliable if cared for. They can also be remapped easily for more power...

[@carsandallaboutcars2939]

Exellent review. I just bough one for $500. May need a headgasket fix but definitely worth it

[@JJonCars]

Sounds like a bargain 👍

[@adriancarter2863]

Seriously considered the previous generation of Volvo XC70 D5, but put off by the black plasticy exterior and pop-up SatNav screen that obscures forward visibility. Opted for the 2.5i AWD Subaru Outback NavPlus instead. Would have preferred the 3.6iH6 version, but sadly out of my price range :(

[@danciminera8986]

d3 is also 5 cylinder, it's just a lower output version of the d4.

[@rufhaus]

Did you see a lamp light, shining on your window?🤣🤣

[@andrewfitzmaurice7843]

I’ve owned a 2014 XC70 (145,000 miles) for about 18 months. I must be in the minority, but I don’t find the seats anywhere near as comfortable as I thought they would be compared with my previous Discovery 4 and my dad’s 2003 P2 XC70. The cheaper road tax and extra mpg are very welcome after my Discovery, although so far the Volvo is costing way more to run in terms of repairs. Overall though I love it! Ideally I like to get a last of the line Euro 6 D5, but I’m committed to this one with what I’ve had to spend on it.

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

I’ve just bought an XC70 SE Sport D5 2008 (no sat nav) was looking at an x5 but a 18,000 XC70 as a no brainer. Love it. Cream and brown interior silver exterior

[@JJonCars]

18k miles on a 2008? Definite no-brainer. You've practically got a new car :)

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

@@JJonCars exactly 👍🏻 Plus, garage serviced it, new cambelt (age) gearbox service. Good for 200k plus.

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

@@JJonCars Messaged you via instagram 👍🏻

[@michaelosborne4944]

i have a 2003 XC70 2.5, 5 cylinder petrol turbo, just clocked 315,000 miles on original engine & turbo that was until someone ran a stop sign 2 weeks ago & hit it squarely in the rear wheel causing damage to suspension parts. Unfortunately due to it being 20 years old it has been written off, but i will be looking to update it with a newer model XC70, but like my last one, here in the USA it will be another petrol, now that 3.0 T6 sounds fun.

[@JJonCars]

Ah man, that's a shame. You'll have to let me know if you get a T6, that would be so good. Don't think they ever sold it in the UK (I might have said in the video, I forget 😂)

[@eketorp]

Great review for a great Volvo ! We own a D5 2011 XC70 with 6 speed A/T gearbox, in seashell paint color with chocolate leather. Bought with 154000 km, now 365000. Engine seems very reliable, oil consumption is almost zero. I hope the A/T will last. Some vibrations appear randomly, maybe from CV axles... my wife and kids love it, so we'll keep it as long as it lives ! There is no equivalent in the current Volvo range, so...

[@JJonCars]

This is the problem with a lot of brands - they don't make the cars that people know and love any more. Just SUVs 😂 Here's to a load more kms in the trusty XC70!

[@ln5747]

Have you changed AT oil on schedule?

[@radoslavzamfirov1986]

I have a XC70 D4 2013 , great 👍🏻 car , my family love it 😍 just in the moment when I bought it , I just get butterflies 🦋 in my stomach 😂 nice and comfortable car ever + safety

[@Ascottie75]

I own an Audi A6 Allroad with the V6 3.0l tdi which also has air suspension. Thinking of selling and replacing it with the XC70 although the Audi is incredible

[@ralphrey474]

I've been logging the fuel economy at every tank since I've owned the car at 114k km until now at 268k ten years later, and there has been no change in performance. Only routine maintenance, fuel pressure sensor and PCV diaphragm. I've had a '73 Volvo P1800ES, '74 142 GL, an '85 245 and this '09 XC70 3.2. By far the most reliable, comfortable loveable car I've ever had. Totally expect to get another 10 years out of Oly.

[@JJonCars]

Very impressive!

[@minorthreat5276]

Hv a 12 3.2 w 155k miles. Love it. No pblms whatsoever. Runs perfect. No repairs- just maintenance. Doubt ill ever buy their newer lame 4 bangers.

[@michaelarchangel1163]

Volvo's 5 cylinder diesel was great when worked hard and used over long enough distances to fully heat up the exhaust filters but a constant limp mode curse if used otherwise. A pal of mine had one. I'd only consider owning one if it would pass an MOT with the emission gubbins removed.

[@JJonCars]

Goes for a lot of diesel engines these days sadly!

[@swedish_steel7861]

In that regard Volvos are way better than other diesel as the cat and pf sit closer to the engine and thus heat up faster. My mercedes v6 got the limp curse after only two years of 5km trips... ofc i also drove it on long trips now and then and 20km trips a few times a week.

[@carsandallaboutcars2939]

I do wish we had the D5 engine here in the States. I suspect it may be more robust than the 2.4/2.5T which is a very good engine as well

[@JJonCars]

Yes, it's strange how the US never was a big buyer of diesels. As they are good long distance cars - and the US has a lot of long distance journeys!

[@lennyvalentinoSchiaretti_lvs]

Great review! Thanks! Amazing car, I own a Subaru Outback 2008 and I am really looking at the XC70 as my next car, I wanna ask if someone as experience in update the navigation system to something more modern...is it possibile keeping the original position and without ruining the interiors? Thanks for your help! PS: I heard just right now how much the dashboard creaks...phew...why? !!!! My Subaru with 300,000km doesn't have the smallest creak! That's bad!

[@JJonCars]

Thanks! I don't know about the sat nav upgrade - but someone else in the comments managed to remove the creaks by taking the centre console apart and putting double sided tape in there 😄 But yeah - I drove a Legacy on this channel and it wasn't creaking. Also nice cars :)

[@timrains5011]

Have one currently, bought used. First jobs to do are cambelt and other ancillary belts to be sure nothing catastrophic will happen. Full service. Then, if over 80k miles, get Volvo dealer to replace the transmission oil and internal filter (if automatic). (I wouldn't trust this job to an independent) They tend to tell you it's a sealed system that doesn't need doing but actually they will, if pressed, do the job (about £400) This will double the life of auto transmission which is important especially if towing. Easily the best family car we've ever owned, so practical. Not a particularly dynamic drive but gets on with the job. Loaded with safety features which encourages safe driving. We love the D5 engine for towing. It's surprisingly quite good off road too. I have a friend with LR discovery who spends endless cash on his vehicle and I, so far, have been able to match him for practicality and to a point, what has been needed off road. The replacement for this car, the v90xc looks less practical to me what with its raked tailgate. I'm sticking with this for as long as possible. Brilliant car. (But don't tell anyone)

[@wallycustard1281]

£400 to replace the gearbox oil? Good God!

[@timrains5011]

@@wallycustard1281 turned out not to be that much

[@wallycustard1281]

@@timrains5011 How much did it cost?

[@timrains5011]

@@wallycustard1281 £290

[@wallycustard1281]

@@timrains5011 Just to replace gearbox oil? It's about £20 at motor factors.

[@ryannafe9252]

I have just bought a 2010 XC70 T6 (no diesels here in the states 🥺) and I’m very happy so far. Peppy and extremely smooth acceleration from the inline 6. I’ve done 8.5 hours in the car in one day with absolutely no fatigue or need for breaks to stretch/walk, so it’s definitely very very comfortable. And I get (US measurements and T6 3.0 engine) 470 miles of highway range with it. And it loses nothing in off-road capability over my former compact SUV that I loved. I think this thing rules. And station wagons for life. 😫

[@ryannafe9252]

👌🏻 not 😩 (haha, darn typos)

[@JJonCars]

Haha, awesome. Glad you like it! I know you think its a shame you don't get diesels, but I also think it's a shame we didn't get the T6!

[@ryannafe9252]

Oh don’t get me wrong, I’m stoked about this T6 turbo, it really adds an extra dimension to the otherwise very utilitarian vehicle. This one is rated at 281 HP and 295 foot-pounds. And they’re quite hard to find here, so I got lucky for sure. 👍

[@gramchristian]

Good review of an outstanding car. I own 2016 vintage D4 2 litre Volvo diesel front drive last update. Never out of power and good milage if light on the gas pedal. Sorry Audi/SUbaru guys - this is the better one !

[@JJonCars]

Thanks!

[@aaronthis]

Great but 4c struts are expensive on p2 models.can you do a review on these and also a p2 series.thanks

[@JJonCars]

If I get hold of a P2, I will :)

[@rh7163]

I have an old 2009 Xc70 3.2 Volvo wagon and my only regret is not buying it sooner as I totally love this car. The only issue I have is the radio which I will replace with an upgrade. Its the looks, the quality and the driving this car that ruins any thoughts of buying anything else although this "wagon" has the extra room that makes me want to keep it above all other wagons.

[@JJonCars]

They are great cars for sure. Wouldn't mind one myself.

[@MrGarlaj43]

Great cars. I went for a D3 5 Cylinder 1.98 litre diesel DrivE with front wheel drive. Why? I don’t live in a part of the world that regularly requires 4WD, I wanted a big safe estate that used as little fuel as possible. Same safety kit (airbags etc) comfort and bits and bobs…lower fuel bill and Euro5 so less polluting also. Confusingly, this 5 Cylinder diesel has 163bhp… just to add to the myriad of engines listed! I think if you grew up with Volvos (e.g Dads and 240s), you have more of a tendency to have a soft spot for them. Great vid. Thanks for sharing!🙂

[@JJonCars]

Makes sense! The engine line up is somewhat confusing, I tried to get it down to a simple range as possible, but then you've got different engines again depending on whether it's pre or post 2012 :D Cheers! :)

[@ivarmarkusson382]

@@JJonCars its a bit confusing but not that confusing if you brake it up. basicly 4wd xc70 diesel all have the same engine, no mtter if its a d3 d4 d5, just different variants of the 2.4l with different outputs. pre facelift you had d5 and 2.4d, again same engine different output, in 2012 the 2.4d became the d3, still same engine, then the d3 became the d4, the v70 on the other hand had an extra engine compared to the xc, there the d3 and d4 had its own engine, a 2.0l version of the 5cyl, with 163hp, the fwd xc70 d3 and d4 got it as well,

[@centaurus5676]

I have the same V70 D3! Black with beige interior, 2012....absolutely adore it and will be my last fossil fuel car! I will keep it until it dies, 131k on the clock and drives like new!

[@MrGarlaj43]

@@centaurus5676 me too. Think my car is great and fuel/tax/insurance is not too bad either. It will be my last fossil fuel car also, which is inevitable I guess, and still going well at 146k…happy days! 🙂👍

[@williamreynolds1163]

I have one of the last XC70s imported to the UK .In fact it was a Volvo UK car for 18 months.Its 2016 and I bought it 18 months old in 11/17 with about 21k on the clock .I have just done 60k so its not doing huge mileage .Where it is brilliant is motorway driving .I had an old XC90 before this ,and it is light and day in comparison .I have driven to the South of France /Spain a couple of times and it is great . What I dont understand is that my car has the D5 4wd,heated seats satnav etc ,but seems to be missing some other stuff like electric seats and reversing camera etc .I dont know if they down specced the car as they were doing the run off of the model .Anyway they are very small issues as basically its only me that drives it so the seats dont really move . I think I will have it for probably at least another 5 years if not longer ,as what will replace it?

[@JJonCars]

Very nice to have one of the last ones. You could be right about the trim level being a weird run-out version. I'd opt for heated seats over electrically adjustable ones anyway :) Difficult to say isn't it as they don't do any equivalent now... I guess the V90 would be the best bet, but you'd lose the all wheel drive and raised ride height.

[@williamreynolds1163]

@@JJonCars I friend has the new cross country and he gave me a lift in it but I found it claustrophobic and it seemed quite low down so the front view was not as good .In fact i gave him a lift in mine 2 days ago and he said how good it was.The main good thing about the car is that it isnt an Audi or BMW!

[@raymondtyrie4949]

Very good car.

[@thomas4961]

Best car ever, XC70 D4 Classic Summum 2016, 50000 km now , so low milage, Hade since new....

[@HERBYWALLACE3]

Love them

[@randomrangoon5476]

I've got an xc90 that I'm selling so I can get an awd xc70. Any suggestions for what might be the best years to look out for

[@gilbertjubinville]

I have a 2006 bought new. Can you check the transmission oil in the new ones? Now that they are owned by China, I really do not want one

[@boderick1]

I have a 2013 SE LUX D5 Love the car mainly, can't believe it doesn't come as standard with power socket in the rear. My biggest pet hate is no front fog lights, I see this as a big fail.

[@JJonCars]

That is pretty bad for such a high trim level like SE LUX, you'd think a car designed for cold Swedish winter nights would have front fogs!

[@chien-shengtsai8626]

I have a 2015 T6. Biggest peeve is the lack of front fog lights--how could they, what were they thinking, save a few bucks, replace them with the DLR and use the same switch on the console.

[@leonwilliams4856]

Av got 07 v70 130k sport limited edition but looking to swap to xc70

[@JJonCars]

Nice, you fancy the extra ground clearance and abilities?

[@lukeharris2826]

Hi guys. Quick question. With the 4 wheel drive system. Does it have the option to turn off to 2 wheel drive? All is it 4 wheel drive all the time??

[@JJonCars]

It's 4wd all the time :)

[@_jake_doran]

JJ, your mates are not telling you the truth about your goatee turtleneck combo..

[@nikosuoa]

Great car, but I prefer the interior (dashboard etc.) of the previous version (P2) :)!

[@JJonCars]

I bet it's less creaky haha!

[@Christerart]

Agree..:)

[@chloedepledge]

I think a Volvo v50 would be a nice review, they’re really good value for money being based on a Ford / Mazda

[@JJonCars]

Would love to review a V50 if I can get hold of one 👍 Always liked the look of them.

[@chloedepledge]

@@JJonCars I have one myself, however it’s only the 1.8 petrol and I reckon to get the true experience you’d need to test one of the 2.5 5 cylinders (T5, D5)

[@penelopeoates511]

I can't believe how similar you and your friend look. You even sound the same plus you are the same height. Some people say we all have a doppelganger somewhere in the world and after watching this video I suspect that may be true.

[@JJonCars]

Amazing isn't it, what are the chances :)