Second-Hand Volvo XC70
Used Volvo XC70
The used Volvo XC70 isn't a full-blown off-roader; it's an estate car with extra ground clearance and body protection. If you want a prestigious badge with a small amount of off-road ability, then a second-hand Volvo XC70 offers you a more affordable alternative to an Audi. There are plenty of cars about, and since they tend to have mainly been in private hands, they're well looked after. The diesel versions are the pick of the bunch, offering the best combination of versatility and running costs.
What You Get
All models have a good spec with an electrically operated driver's seat, leather upholstery, climate control and a stereo featuring Dolby surround sound. The interior is a nice place to be, with a quality feel to the trim and all of the major controls easily to hand. The SE Lux adds a sat nav with integrated TV, heated seats, rain-sensing wipers and headlamp wash/wipe. The rear seat has two positions to favour comfort or luggage space and there's a clever 3-way split so you can drop the centre section for long loads and still carry two rear passengers. There's also a fold-down guard to screen off the luggage compartment when carrying dogs or piling up luggage.
How it Drives
The 163bhp diesel will take you from 0-60 in 11.5 seconds and go on to 121mph, it'll also deliver 33mpg if driven more gently. The diesel engine has good mid-range punch, though it can feel sluggish at low revs. You'll only get 27mpg from the petrol engine, but it will reach 60 in 7.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 140mph. The taller suspension means that the car doesn't handle as well as the conventional V70, it offers a better ride though even if sometimes it doesn't feel quite as composed over bumps. The 4x4 system will easily cope with farm tracks and damp fields, even if it isn't up to serious off-roading. Late models have a hill descent system borrowed from Land Rover to automatically control the car's speed on steep slopes.