Car Test
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R0359 | |
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October 2003 |
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| First Drive | Volvo V70 | |
| Printer Friendly Page | Featured model: 2.0T S | |
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Think big estate cars, think Volvo. Nothing new in that, of course – ask countless country folk and antiques dealers who have bought them for decades. In fact, the V70 represents a high proportion of the company’s business worldwide.
It shares many of its underpinnings with the S80 saloon, and its wide range of engines is familiar, too – at least most of them are. The turbocharged 2.0T is a relative newcomer that we’ve sampled in the sportier S60, but how does it acquit itself in the big estate? In a word, admirably. Though producing only 10bhp more than the 170bhp 2.4-litre engine, it develops greater torque at considerably lower revs. From 2800rpm, this creamy smooth five-cylinder is pulling in real earnest to give spirited acceleration that tops out at a claimed 137mph. Consequently, this staid-looking load carrier is more entertaining to drive than it might appear, especially as the gearchange is a pleasure to use. It’s a super engine that’s not only affable at low revs, but will also spin keenly to 6000rpm with a glorious distinctive howl from underbonnet. Such is its torquey nature, however, that you won’t need to resort to this extreme; it’s also a quiet cruiser on main roads and motorways. Under these conditions the car bowls along with well-cushioned comfort. Our poor surfaces, progress can be fidgety, but the suspension manages to remove much of the sting from sharp-edged road faults. The steering is as responsive and nicely weighted as ever, and, if need be, the car will handle with a competence that belies its bulk. This is partly due to the tyres that take a tight hold of the tarmac and the stability and traction controls waiting in the wings. Most people, however, will probably prefer the V70's stable, steady-as-you-go nature. Volvo brakes used to feel overservoed at low speeds, but these had a ‘just right’ feel. It’s very comfortable at the reach-and-rake-adjustable wheel, thanks to a big seat that has numerous (manual) settings. Sensible switches, clear dials and excellent all-round vision also add to the driver’s sense of well-being. So, too, does the climate control. This has side-to-side temperature settings up front, as well as centre-pillar vents that complement the rear floor outlets. The back seats are as welcoming and comfortable as they look, with two-positioned, supportive backrests and generous thigh support for the longer legged. There’s plenty of room in all directions within the carefully crafted and safety conscious interior, but it’s a pity that the big front head restraints mar forward vision so much. The meticulously carpeted cargo area is a sensible, regular shape and doubles in volume when the 60/40 seat cushions (with head restraints in situ) are folded – or removed. The front passenger’s seatback can be folded flat, too, for ever longer loads. However, when all the seats are occupied, luggage space isn’t as great as you might think, because the load area is relatively shallow, especially when the security cover is in use. |
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