The All New Volvo XC70
Published: 5th March 2007
Volvo XC70
Volvo’s boldly styled and intelligently configured all new Volvo XC70 AWD (all-wheel drive) estate offers significantly improved levels of all-road-all-weather ability and an engaging driving experience combined with class-leading safety features, load-carrying versatility and refined passenger comfort.
Performance
The all new XC70 offers both performance and fuel economy with Volvo’s naturally aspirated 3.2-litre straight six-cylinder petrol engine and its second generation 2.4-litre five-cylinder D5 turbo diesel engine.
The D5 turbo diesel, with 185 PS and 400 Nm, packs a full technical punch and features double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder technology, an electronically controlled turbocharger, a maintenance-free particle filter, a more advanced multi-point injection system and an enhanced engine management system. It accelerates to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds (manual) and on to a 130 mph maximum speed.
The D5 is available as a 6-speed manual gearbox or Volvo’s six-speed Geartronic transmission, which gives the driver the choice of automatic or manual shifting.
Designed by Volvo in Sweden and built in Bridgend in Wales, the 3.2-litre naturally aspirated straight-six petrol engine is both powerful and amazingly compact, producing 238 PS and maximum torque of 320 Nm. The engine’s aluminium block and head are structurally optimised to balance low weight and stiffness. There are twin overhead camshafts and 24-valves (four per cylinder) to provide optimal engine breathing. Engine breathing is further improved by Volvo’s patented CPS (Cam Profile Switching) system that features two completely different intake cam profiles machined onto the same camshaft.
Available with Geartronic transmission only, the 3.2-litre powers 0 to 60mph acceleration in 8.1 seconds and achieves a 134mph top speed.
Driving Dynamics
Underpinned by advanced new chassis architecture, the all new Volvo XC70 delivers an agile and rewarding driving experience that combines exceptional driver control, outstanding ride comfort and secure road holding.
Extensive use of high-strength steels throughout the all new XC70 has boosted torsional rigidity by 15 percent compared to the previous model and particular focus on chassis technology, the suspension system and engine installation ensures that the XC70 delivers good stability and torsional rigidity.
The all new XC70 is also fitted with Volvo’s DSTC (dynamic stability and traction control), which enhances cornering stability and reduces the risk of a skid by utilising feedback from numerous dynamic sensors to reduce engine torque and apply carefully calculated braking.
Four-C, Volvo’s advanced active chassis technology with electronically controlled damper adjustment, is also available. “With an active chassis, the car’s driving properties improve in all situations,” says Volvo Cars XC70 Project Director, Tomas Ahlborg. “It becomes both safer and more entertaining to drive.”
Volvo XC70
Our Volvo XC70 Guide lists the full specification of the current UK XC70 range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £27,995 - £39,695
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Models in the range: 12
We have road tested the Volvo XC70, to read our in-depth car reviews:
Volvo XC70 Review - Mar 2008
Volvo XC70 Review - Jan 2009
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 14th Oct 2009
