The Volvo V70 III 2.4 D5 (185 Hp) Automatic, produced between 2007 and 2009, represents the third generation of Volvo’s popular station wagon. Positioned within the mid-size executive car segment, the V70 aimed to combine practicality, safety, and Scandinavian design. While not officially sold in the United States during this generation, the V70 was a significant model in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate. This iteration focused on refining the established V70 formula with improved efficiency and technology, particularly in its diesel powertrain options.
Volvo V70 III 2.4 D5: An Overview
The V70 III built upon the success of its predecessors, offering a spacious and versatile interior coupled with Volvo’s renowned safety features. The 2.4 D5 variant, equipped with a five-cylinder diesel engine and an automatic transmission, was a popular choice for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and comfortable long-distance cruising. The third-generation V70 saw a shift towards a more premium feel, with enhanced interior materials and a more refined driving experience compared to earlier models. It was a key part of Volvo’s lineup during a period of ownership under Ford, benefiting from shared technologies and engineering resources.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the V70 III 2.4 D5 is a 2.4-liter inline five-cylinder diesel engine, designated D5244T4. This engine produces 185 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 400 Nm (295.02 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2,000 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 automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.4 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in 8.9 seconds. The V70 III 2.4 D5 boasts a top speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers (36.2 US mpg), with CO2 emissions of 199 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards. The weight-to-power ratio stands at 8.5 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 3.9 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Volvo V70 III maintains the classic station wagon profile, characterized by its long roofline and generous cargo area. Its exterior design is typically Scandinavian – understated, elegant, and functional. The vehicle offers seating for five passengers and features five doors for easy access. A key feature is its spacious trunk, offering a minimum capacity of 575 liters (20.31 cu. ft.). With the rear seats folded down, cargo capacity expands significantly. Safety was, as always, a paramount concern for Volvo. The V70 III incorporates a comprehensive suite of safety features, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), side impact protection systems (SIPS), and a reinforced safety cage. Other notable features include a comfortable interior, a well-equipped dashboard, and a range of optional extras such as leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and navigation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | V70 |
| Generation | V70 III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D5 (185 Hp) Automatic |
| 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) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Power | 185 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T4 |
| Engine displacement | 2401 cm3 (146.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 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 | 1861 mm (73.27 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, 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 Automatic offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a practical, safe, and efficient station wagon. Its blend of Scandinavian design, robust engineering, and comfortable features ensured its continued popularity in the European market during its production run.
