Skip advert
Advertisement

Volvo XC70

With traditional SUVs under fire from governments and environmentalists, cars such as the Volvo XC70 could be the future of 4x4s. The Swedish firm certainly hopes so, and a range of revisions to its car-based off-roader aims to keep it at the top of the crossover pile.

Neither a traditional off-roader nor a conventional estate, the XC70 is an attractive proposition for those after practical family transport. Its estate origins provide benefits in terms of packaging, while increased ground clearance and all-wheel-drive give confidence when the going gets rough.

With traditional SUVs under fire from governments and environmentalists, cars such as the Volvo XC70 could be the future of 4x4s. The Swedish firm certainly hopes so, and a range of revisions to its car-based off-roader aims to keep it at the top of the crossover pile.

A new front bumper and clear lamp lenses all round identify the facelifted car on the outside, but less easy to spot is the optional water-repellent glass. Volvo's Four-C active chassis - which tunes the suspension to suit on or off-road driving - is also available for the first time, and early next year, buyers will be able to opt for a blindspot warning device.

The XC's tall ride height means lots of body roll in corners, but it's better than a conventional 4x4, and it handles more like a car than a truck. The five-cylinder diesel provides ample performance, too, even if it's noisy under load.

Inside, the XC70's estate origins are obvious - you don't sit as upright as you do in a full-size SUV, and as a result the cabin doesn't feel as roomy. It's comfortable, though, thanks to new front seats, and the quality of the materials is first rate. The revised centre console and dash are sensibly laid out, too, while the centre armrest features added storage. However, we couldn't help but wonder how well the beige interior of our test car would stand up to long-term use.

There are no such concerns in the rear, where a reversible boot mat flips over to reveal a durable non-slip rubber surface, and a clever dog guard that extends from the top of the rear bench. The 1,641-litre loadspace with seats folded compares well with the Audi Allroad's 1,590 litres.

It beats the German on cost, too. The oil-burning XC70 SE Lux is priced at £29,483 with the standard six-speed manual, but you'll pay an extra £1,250 for the Geartronic auto that allows manual selection of its five gears. Company users take note - the manual comes with a lower CO2 figure of 199g/km.

Our car featured a communications pack (£3,050), electric sunroof (£850), rear parking sensors (£340) and - for the first time - a passenger airbag cut-off (£25). With metallic paint a steep £500 option, that puts the price into full-sized SUV territory. Be sensible with the extras, though, and the XC70's lower fuel economy and emissions make it an attractive alternative to traditional 4x4s.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,038 off RRP*Used from £13,266
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £23,990Avg. savings £2,192 off RRP*Used from £20,921
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £11,695
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,924 off RRP*Used from £12,295
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Range Rover Sport SV gets massive £35k price drop as it enters series-production
Range Rover Sport SV Black - front

Range Rover Sport SV gets massive £35k price drop as it enters series-production

There’s also a new SV Black trim, and a Range Rover Sport Stealth Package for non SVs
News
1 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: MG ZS gives a big SUV feel for a miniscule £194 a month
MG ZS - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: MG ZS gives a big SUV feel for a miniscule £194 a month

The MG ZS is an easy car to like and live with. It’s our Deal of the Day for 3 July
News
3 Jul 2025
Arrivederci Roma: new Ferrari Amalfi slots in as brand’s latest entry-level model
Ferrari Amalfi - front static

Arrivederci Roma: new Ferrari Amalfi slots in as brand’s latest entry-level model

A slick new look and more power are the headlines for Ferrari’s new baby, but it’s probably some simple new buttons that will get customers’ attention
News
1 Jul 2025