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Volvo XC70 Review & Road TestReview by www.new-car-reviews.co.uk
Summary Launched in 2000, the XC70 is a modified version of the excellent V70 estate (see separate review) and aims to complement the practicality of that package by adding limited off-road capabilities. As such its most direct competitor is the Audi AllRoad. The primary functional modifications to the base V70 are; the addition of an all wheel drive system, an increase in the ride height (for improved road clearance) and the toughening of the underside of the vehicle. On the aesthetic side the XC70's black moulded side bumpers and wheel arch extensions give the car an appropriately resilient look and do not detract from the elegant lines of the V70. In this modified form the XC70 is happy to cope with muddy fields and country tracks, however it does not have the low ratio gears that are requisite on true off-road terrain. On the tarmac the raised ride height does increase the tendency for body-roll but this is compensated for by the all wheel drive system and excellent road holding. The base model is equipped with a 2.4litre turbocharged petrol unit that manages 121 mph and 0-60 in 11.5 seconds. At the top of the range, the T SE is fitted with a 2.5 litre turbocharged unit that manages 140 mph and 0-60 in 7.6 seconds. The interior of the XC70 is pretty much the standard V70 arrangement, it is logically laid out, controls are easy to operate and the whole package is well put together, giving the feel of a quality executive saloon. Practically the XC70 can accommodate five adults with plenty of head and leg room front and rear. The front seats are amongst the most comfortable you will find in any car.. As you would expect the boot is very generous and the rear seats fold flat to create a long wide load carrying area. At higher speeds, wind, road and engine noise are all very well suppressed and the XC70, like its V70 counterpart, would make a very comfortable companion on those longer motorway journeys. Review ©2006 New-car-reviews.co.uk Do you agree? Do you disagree? Click here to submit your own review of the Volvo XC70 >> |
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