The Volvo V70 III 2.5 FT (200 Hp) Ethanol, produced between 2008 and 2009, represents the third generation of Volvo’s popular station wagon, the V70. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where large, practical, and safe estate cars held significant appeal. While not officially sold in the United States, the V70 series, in its various iterations, has always been recognized for its blend of Scandinavian design, robust engineering, and commitment to safety. The “FT” designation indicates a flexible-fuel vehicle capable of running on gasoline or a blend of up to 85% ethanol (E85), reflecting a growing environmental awareness and the desire for alternative fuel options in Europe.
Volvo V70 III 2.5 FT: A Detailed Overview
The V70 III, built on Volvo’s P24 platform (shared with the S80 II), aimed to improve upon its predecessors in terms of space, comfort, and driving dynamics. The 2.5 FT model specifically offered a compelling combination of performance and fuel efficiency, particularly when utilizing ethanol. It catered to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle suitable for both family transport and long-distance travel. The V70’s reputation for safety was further enhanced during this generation with the inclusion of advanced safety features, solidifying Volvo’s position as a leader in automotive safety.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the V70 III 2.5 FT is a 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine, designated the B5254T8. This naturally aspirated engine produces 200 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. The engine’s flexible-fuel capability allows it to run on gasoline or E85 ethanol, offering drivers a choice based on availability and cost. While running on E85 results in increased fuel consumption (13.1 l/100 km compared to 9.4 l/100 km on gasoline), it also reduces carbon dioxide emissions (216 g/km vs. 224 g/km). The engine’s power output translates to a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.1 seconds, and a calculated 0-60 mph time of 7.7 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). The engine’s specific output is 79.3 horsepower per liter, demonstrating a reasonable level of efficiency for a naturally aspirated engine of this displacement.
Design & Features
The Volvo V70 III maintains the classic station wagon (estate) body style, offering a spacious and practical interior. It features five seats and five doors, providing ample room for passengers and cargo. The vehicle’s exterior design is characterized by clean lines and a sophisticated aesthetic, typical of Scandinavian design principles. Key features include a large cargo area with a minimum capacity of 575 liters (20.31 cu. ft.), a 70-liter (18.49 US gal) fuel tank, and a maximum roof load capacity of 100 kg (220.46 lbs). Safety features are paramount, with standard inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The V70 III also offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior, with a focus on ergonomics and user-friendliness. The suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an independent coil spring arrangement at the rear, providing a balance between ride comfort and handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | V70 |
| Generation | V70 III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 FT (200 Hp) Ethanol |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (Ethanol – E85) | 13.1 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 224 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (Ethanol – E85) | 216 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B5254T8 |
| Engine displacement | 2521 cm3 (153.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 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%) | 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) | 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 |
The Volvo V70 III 2.5 FT represents a well-rounded package for those seeking a practical, safe, and reasonably efficient station wagon. Its flexible-fuel capability and spacious interior made it a popular choice in European markets, embodying Volvo’s commitment to both driver well-being and environmental responsibility.
