The Volvo V70 III 1.6 T4F (180 Hp) Ethanol Automatic is a station wagon that was produced between 2012 and 2013. Representing the third generation of the V70, this model was primarily sold in the European market, where Volvo’s estate cars have traditionally held a strong position. The V70 offered a blend of practicality, safety, and Scandinavian design, appealing to families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle. The “T4F” designation indicates a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine optimized for flexible-fuel operation, capable of running on both gasoline and E85 ethanol. This model aimed to provide a more fuel-efficient and environmentally conscious option within the V70 lineup.
Volvo V70 III 1.6 T4F: An Overview
The V70 III, launched in 2007, built upon the success of its predecessors, offering increased space, improved safety features, and a more refined driving experience. The 1.6 T4F variant, while not widely available in North America, was a significant offering in Europe, particularly in markets promoting biofuel usage. It catered to customers seeking a balance between performance and economy, with the ability to utilize the lower cost and reduced carbon footprint of E85 ethanol. The V70 competed with other premium estate cars such as the Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the V70 III 1.6 T4F is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated B4164T2. This engine produces 180 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1620 and 4980 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance, and is designed to run on both gasoline and E85 ethanol. When running on E85, the fuel consumption increases to 10.3 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg), but CO2 emissions are slightly reduced to 169 g/km. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.9 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.4 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 10 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 7.5 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Volvo V70 III maintains the classic Volvo station wagon profile – a long roofline, spacious interior, and a focus on practicality. The exterior design is characterized by clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, typical of Scandinavian design. Inside, the V70 III offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin with seating for five passengers. Key features include a spacious trunk with a minimum capacity of 575 liters (20.31 cu. ft.), a user-friendly infotainment system, and a range of safety features. As a Volvo, safety was paramount. The V70 III incorporates a robust safety cage, side impact protection system (SIPS), and a host of active safety systems such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle’s drag coefficient is 0.31, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and stability at higher speeds. The V70 III also offers a maximum roof load of 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) and a permitted trailer load of up to 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) with brakes.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | V70 |
| Generation | V70 III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 T4F (180 Hp) Ethanol 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 (economy) – combined | 7.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (Ethanol – E85) | 10.3 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 175 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (Ethanol – E85) | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1620-4980 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1620-4980 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6150 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B4164T2 |
| Engine displacement | 1596 cm3 (97.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.8 l (10.36 US qt | 8.62 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%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 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 | Front wheel drive |
| 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Volvo V70 III 1.6 T4F represented a practical and versatile option for European buyers, combining Volvo’s renowned safety with the flexibility of a station wagon body style and the benefits of a flexible-fuel engine.


