2004 Volvo V70 R


Before you read this review on the 2004 Volvo V70 R, there is one important point you must understand: this is not a traditional Volvo station wagon. Although the exterior looks very similar to the other, less exciting, Volvo wagons, there are a few subtle differences. ‘R’ badges placed on the front grille and on the rear of the automobile, sporty aluminum wheels with a small ‘R’ mark and a beautiful rear spoiler are the only signs visible from outside the car that reveal its identity. And what an identity it is.

The V70 R is powered by a highly pressurized turbo charged 2.5 liter flat-5 engine – the same power plant that Volvo uses in the S60 R. This surprisingly quiet motor produces 300 horses and 295 lb-ft of torque at only 1950 rpm when matched with the 6-speed manual gearbox. Choose the optional 5-speed automatic transmission and torque drops slightly to 258 lb-ft. The 6-speed transmission is a gem, shifts are short and precise and the engine responds instantly when your foot hits the gas pedal. The automatic tranny is lacks some responsiveness when compared to the 6-speed, but overall is very capable and makes for an enjoyable ride for those who don’t want to change their own gears. Volvo claims the 0-60 times are 5.9 seconds with the manual transmission and 7.4 with the automatic. However, when driving the V70 R with the 5-speed, it seemed like it could hit 60 mph from a standstill in 6.5 seconds easily. No matter what the numbers say – with either transmission - this is one fun to drive station wagon.

With 300 horses running wild under the hood, Volvo realized the V70 R would be hitting high speeds regularly. Therefore, large Brembo brake calipers were installed on the R making stops from freeway speeds short and easy to control. Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the V70 R is its handling. Volvo created a system where the driver can instantly change the stiffness of the suspension from comfort to sport to advanced and back again within seconds. Changing the settings makes a large impact on the handling and ride quality, which is definitely a good thing. Overall, the V70 R handles very well regardless of what suspension mode is used; in the comfort setting it rides like a Cadillac and in the advanced setting it handles like a Porsche.

The interior is also well designed. The seats are simply sensational and are probably the best I have ever sat in. The dashboard instruments are finished in a wonderful blue and silver metallic look that is unique and stunning. Rear set leg room is a little tight for tall adults over longer periods of time, but for the most part interior space is reasonable. Cargo capacity is immense and a family of four could easily use it for long road trips.

As with all other Volvo models, the V70 R is loaded with safety features, including more airbags than you can shake a stick at. Overall, for around $45,000, the V70 R is an outstanding deal. For the family who wants the utility of a station wagon without giving up anything in the fun-to-drive aspect, the Volvo V70 R is the perfect choice. I never would have thought a station wagon, let alone a Volvo could be such a blast to drive.