The Volvo V70 III 2.4 D (163 Hp) is a station wagon that was produced between 2007 and 2009. Representing the third generation of the V70 model line, it served as Volvo’s flagship estate car, primarily aimed at the European market where wagons maintain significant popularity. The V70 III offered a blend of practicality, safety, and Scandinavian design, competing with vehicles like the Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate. While not officially sold in the United States during this generation, the V70’s reputation for durability and family-friendliness precedes it, appealing to those seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle.
Volvo V70 III 2.4 D: Overview and Market Position
The V70 III, built on Volvo’s P24 platform (shared with the S80), was a significant evolution from its predecessors. It offered increased interior space, improved ride quality, and a more refined driving experience. The 2.4 D variant, powered by a diesel engine, was particularly popular in Europe due to its fuel efficiency and torque characteristics, making it well-suited for long-distance travel and towing. Volvo positioned the V70 III as a premium offering, emphasizing its safety features and comfortable interior, differentiating it from more budget-oriented competitors.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the V70 III 2.4 D is a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder diesel engine, designated the D5244T5. This engine produces 163 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 340 Nm (250.77 lb-ft) of torque between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 9.4 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 210 km/h (130.49 mph). The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 17.3:1 contributes to its efficiency, while the common rail direct fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery. The power-to-weight ratio is 9.7 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.6 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Volvo V70 III features a classic station wagon body style, characterized by its long roofline and spacious cargo area. Its design embodies Volvo’s Scandinavian aesthetic – clean lines, understated elegance, and a focus on functionality. The interior is designed with comfort and practicality in mind, offering seating for five passengers. Key features include a spacious trunk with a minimum capacity of 575 liters (20.31 cu. ft.), a comfortable and well-appointed cabin, and a range of safety features. Safety was a paramount concern for Volvo, and the V70 III incorporates numerous active and passive safety systems, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), side impact protection, and a robust chassis structure. The vehicle’s drag coefficient of 0.31 contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. The V70 III also offers a respectable towing capacity, with a maximum braked trailer load of 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | V70 |
| Generation | V70 III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 178 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T5 |
| Engine displacement | 2400 cm3 (146.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.15 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.5 l (13.21 US qt | 11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1574 kg (3470.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2260 kg (4982.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 686 kg (1512.37 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 575 l (20.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4823 mm (189.88 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1907 mm (75.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2106 mm (82.91 in.) |
| Height | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2816 mm (110.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 143 mm (5.63 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Volvo V70 III 2.4 D represents a compelling combination of practicality, safety, and efficiency. While not widely available in the US market, it remains a respected vehicle in Europe, known for its reliability and suitability for long-distance travel.
