Volvo V70 (2000 - 2007) 2.4 SE (170bhp) 5d Auto (00) (2002/52) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Says you like quality, as she's definitely a premium car, no question about it.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

My family loves her as much as I do, don't care what the neighbours think.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would but not this engine version. I would go for the V70R as I find my current car too sluggish. Also she's not very economical so you might as well go for something with a bit more grunt instead.

What are you likely to buy next?

It's probably going to be something more sporty maybe V70R, maybe BMW M5, quite like the Audi A6. Hmmm hard choice....

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,000

When did you buy the car?

June 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

Got the car from the second owner with full Volvo service history.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Needed a big family car.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

She's very, very comfy, especially the seats, they are the best seats I've ever sat on in the car - even on a very long journey you will still come out fresh on the other side. Although it's got a big 2.4 engine and puts out 170BHP, she's not a sports car and I find her rather sluggish, feels sometimes like rowing against the tide and the handling could be a bit better too. If you are used to a BMW you will be a bit disappointed, saying that she is a perfect motorway cruiser, 100 MPH feels like 50 in a smaller car, hardly any wind noise or hard working engine. Fuel consumption is a bit of the downside. In the city driving sensibly you won't do better than 15 MPG, take it on the motorway and it goes up to around 28-30 MPG.

What's it like to park?

I don't find parking to be an issue but I'm used to big cars, my previous baby was a BMW 523i Touring, also a winter option includes rear parking sensors on my car so can't see the problem. The turning circle is rather appalling though.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Since I got the car she's working well but even though she came with full service history I had to fix few things to make it 100% good. Just after purchase I had to change anti roll bars and steering rods as well as front discs and pads and all 4 shock absorbers with springs together with front upper strut bearings as they were absolutely gone. Other than that she's a good and reliable car, apart from servicing the only other parts that needed changing were middle and back exhaust. Being on the car from new they got really badly corroded. I have to say though parts and repairs cost a small fortune, definitely not a great car to buy if you are on the budget!

What's most practical about your car?

She's big and can easily swallow all your baggage and 5 adult passengers, although back seat is a bit cramped for the size of the car.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

I love excellent sound system and super comfortable seats.