Volvo V70 (2007 - 2016) 2.4D (175bhp) R DESIGN SE Premium 5d Geartronic (2010/10) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Hopefully - solid and dependable. I've got the R-design in black and so I hope it doesn't make me look too middle aged ...

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

Wife loves it. R-design styling lost on her - but did recently say she's noticed how much nicer it looks than all the other estate cars, so there's hope for her still.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes - as a 2nd hand option it just delivers SO much value, class, reliability and owner satisfaction. I'd need to spend at least 50% again to get anything else to touch it..

What are you likely to buy next?

So far - yes. Though when I get some more cash I might investigate the XF - or see what Volvo have done with their new design direction.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£13,350

When did you buy the car?

November 2013

Did you get a good deal and why?

Bought it privately.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Needed an estate car.

What was the dealer like?

Bought it privately.

What's it like to drive?

In another league. A lot more torque than the BMW 320d (despite being lower bhp - and BM is also rather uncomfortable in comparison) so it feels so much beefier and more satisfying to drive. I just don't buy the reviews saying it's dull to drive (I've had BMW 325 and Audi TT 225bhp etc - and test drove all the German rivals first) and this is the most enjoyable and satisfying car to drive that I've ever owned. I’ve got the R-design and have had great fun chucking it around country roads with no hint of body roll and plenty of feedback through the wheel and backside to give any keen driver a real sense of security that the car is fully planted. And it does so with the gorgeous limo-like serenity of an E-class.

What's it like to park?

Easy enough. Parking sensors and a much better turning circle make it like other cars, and visibility it pretty good, too.

Have you had any problems with the car?

No

What's most practical about your car?

Secret storage under boot floor - get to keep all those things that you kinda need in a car (like umbrella, shopping bags, ice-scrapper) but don't want to have rattling around in the boot.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Electric Seats Parking Sensors Blue Tooth DAB.