The Volvo V70 III 3.2i AWD Automatic, produced between 2007 and 2011, represents the third generation of Volvo’s popular station wagon, known as the V70. This model occupied a significant position in the premium, mid-size estate car segment, primarily in the European market. While not widely sold in the United States, the V70 consistently offered a blend of practicality, safety, and Scandinavian design, appealing to families and drivers seeking a versatile and comfortable vehicle. The 3.2i variant, equipped with a 3.2-liter inline-six engine and all-wheel drive, was a flagship offering within the V70 III range, prioritizing performance and all-weather capability.
Volvo V70 III 3.2i: A Detailed Overview
The V70 III built upon the success of its predecessors, offering increased space, improved refinement, and advanced safety features. It shared its platform with the Volvo S80 of the same generation, benefiting from the larger vehicle’s robust engineering and sophisticated technology. The 3.2i model specifically targeted buyers who desired a more powerful and capable V70, making it a popular choice for those frequently traveling long distances or requiring a vehicle that could handle challenging road conditions.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the V70 III 3.2i lies the B6324S, a 3.2-liter inline-six cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant delivers 238 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 320 Newton-meters (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3,200 rpm. The engine’s configuration provides a smooth and refined power delivery, characteristic of inline-six designs. Power per liter is rated at 74.6 hp/l. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, channeling power to all four wheels via Volvo’s all-wheel-drive system. This combination results in a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 8.2 seconds, and a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 8.6 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 11.5 liters per 100 kilometers (20.5 US mpg, 24.6 UK mpg) on a combined cycle, with urban consumption at 16.4 l/100km (14.3 US mpg) and extra-urban at 8.7 l/100km (27 US mpg). CO2 emissions are rated at 275 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Volvo V70 III is a five-door station wagon (estate) offering seating for five passengers. Its design emphasizes practicality and understated elegance, embodying Volvo’s Scandinavian aesthetic. The exterior features clean lines, a sloping roofline, and a distinctive front grille. Inside, the V70 III prioritizes comfort and functionality. The interior is well-appointed with quality materials and ergonomic design. Key features include a spacious cabin, a large cargo area (575 liters minimum), and a range of convenience features. Safety was a paramount concern for Volvo, and the V70 III is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety systems, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), side impact protection, and a robust chassis designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4823 mm (189.88 in), width 1861 mm (73.27 in), height 1547 mm (60.91 in), and wheelbase 2816 mm (110.87 in). The front and rear track measure 1588 mm (62.52 in) and 1586 mm (62.44 in) respectively, with a minimum turning circle of 11.7 meters (38.39 ft).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | V70 |
| Generation | V70 III |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2i (238 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.4 l/100 km (14.3 US mpg, 17.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg, 24.6 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 275 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Power | 238 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 3200 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B6324S |
| Engine displacement | 3192 cm3 (194.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 575 l (20.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| 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 track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
The Volvo V70 III 3.2i AWD Automatic remains a compelling option for those seeking a practical, safe, and refined station wagon. Its blend of performance, comfort, and Scandinavian design continues to appeal to drivers who value a vehicle that can handle a variety of tasks with ease and sophistication.
