The Volvo V70 III 2.4 D5 AWD Automatic, produced from 2012 to 2013, represents the third generation of Volvo’s popular station wagon, known as the V70. This model continued Volvo’s tradition of building practical, safe, and comfortable vehicles, primarily aimed at the European market where the estate car (wagon) body style remains highly favored. While not widely sold in the United States, the V70 III offered a compelling blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and spaciousness for families and those requiring substantial cargo capacity. It served as a flagship model for Volvo, showcasing their engineering prowess and commitment to Scandinavian design principles.
Volvo V70 III 2.4 D5: A Detailed Overview
The V70 III built upon the foundations laid by its predecessors, offering a more refined driving experience and incorporating advanced technologies for the time. It competed with other premium wagons such as the Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate. The 2.4 D5 variant, equipped with a diesel engine and all-wheel drive, was a particularly popular choice due to its strong torque output and all-weather capability.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the V70 III 2.4 D5 lies a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder diesel engine, designated the D5244T15. This engine produces 215 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to both power and efficiency. The engine’s common rail direct fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, the V70 III 2.4 D5 achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds. Its maximum speed is electronically limited to 220 km/h (136.7 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 8.4 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 4.1 kg/Nm demonstrate a good balance between engine output and vehicle mass.
Design & Features
The Volvo V70 III maintains the classic station wagon profile, characterized by a long roofline and a spacious cargo area. Its exterior design is typically Scandinavian – understated, elegant, and functional. The vehicle’s dimensions are substantial, measuring 4823 mm (189.88 in.) in length, 1907 mm (75.08 in.) in width (without mirrors), and 1547 mm (60.91 in.) in height. The wheelbase is 2816 mm (110.87 in.).
Inside, the V70 III prioritizes comfort and practicality. It offers seating for five passengers and a generous 575 liters (20.31 cu. ft.) of trunk space, expandable by folding down the rear seats. Safety was a paramount concern for Volvo, and the V70 III is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a robust chassis designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Other features include independent suspension (McPherson strut front, coil spring rear), a steering rack and pinion system, and a drag coefficient of 0.31, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and stability at higher speeds. The vehicle also boasts a maximum roof load of 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) and a permitted trailer load of up to 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) with brakes.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | V70 |
| Generation | V70 III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D5 (215 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Power | 215 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T15 |
| 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 | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1801 kg (3970.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2410 kg (5313.14 lbs.) |
| Max load | 609 kg (1342.62 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%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 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) | 151 mm (5.94 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic 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 |
The Volvo V70 III 2.4 D5 AWD Automatic remains a compelling option for those seeking a practical, safe, and comfortable station wagon. Its blend of diesel efficiency, all-wheel-drive capability, and spacious interior make it a versatile vehicle for a variety of needs.
