The Volvo V70 III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2013, 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. The 2.0 T5 variant, equipped with a 245 horsepower engine and an automatic transmission, was a popular choice, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Volvo V70 III (2013-2016) 2.0 T5: An Overview
The V70 III, produced from 2007 to 2016, underwent a substantial facelift in 2013, bringing updated styling, improved technology, and refined engine options. This facelift focused on enhancing the vehicle’s exterior appearance and interior comfort, while also improving its safety features and overall driving experience. The 2.0 T5 model specifically targeted drivers seeking a versatile and capable wagon with a responsive powertrain. It continued Volvo’s long tradition of building safe, reliable, and comfortable vehicles.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2013-2016 Volvo V70 III 2.0 T5 is a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated the B4204T11. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler to deliver a robust 245 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 4800 rpm. This provides a good balance of power and responsiveness for everyday driving and longer journeys. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is an impressive 124.4 hp/l. Power is delivered to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, contributing to smooth gear changes and efficient operation. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 6.7 seconds and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.4 seconds, with a maximum speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg), with CO2 emissions of 149 g/km.
Design & Features
The Volvo V70 III is a five-door, five-seat station wagon (estate) known for its elegant and understated Scandinavian design. The 2013 facelift brought a revised front grille, headlights, and bumper, giving the car a more modern and sophisticated appearance. Inside, the V70 III offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with high-quality materials. The interior is designed with a focus on ergonomics and functionality, providing a relaxed and refined driving experience. Key features include a comfortable seating arrangement, a user-friendly infotainment system, and ample storage space. The V70’s defining characteristic is its exceptional cargo capacity. With the rear seats up, it offers 555 liters (19.6 cu. ft.) of trunk space, which expands to a substantial 1580 liters (55.8 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety is paramount in Volvo’s design philosophy, 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.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | V70 |
| Generation | V70 III (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 T5 (245 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 36.8 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 44.1 UK mpg |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 124.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-4800 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B4204T11 |
| Engine displacement | 1969 cm3 (120.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 555 l (19.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1580 l (55.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4814 mm (189.53 in.) |
| Width | 1907 mm (75.08 in.) |
| Height | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2816 mm (110.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1588-1578 mm (62.52 – 62.13 in.) |
| Rear track | 1586-1576 mm (62.44 – 62.05 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 151 mm (5.94 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 – 12.7 m (38.39 – 41.67 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Type of gearbox | 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 2.0 T5 (2013-2016) remains a compelling option for those seeking a practical, safe, and comfortable station wagon. Its blend of performance, efficiency, and spaciousness, combined with Volvo’s renowned commitment to safety, makes it a standout vehicle in its class, even years after its production ended.
