Overview
The 2008 Volvo XC70 represents the debut of the third generation (P3 platform) of Volvo’s iconic luxury crossover wagon. Building upon the legacy of the Cross Country series, this iteration moved away from the P2 platform of its predecessor, adopting a more sophisticated, rigid chassis shared with the S80 sedan. Designed to bridge the gap between a traditional station wagon and a capable SUV, the XC70 was engineered for families requiring all-weather confidence without the cumbersome handling characteristics of a high-riding truck-based vehicle.
Under the hood, the 2008 model introduced the naturally aspirated 3.2-liter inline-six engine, a compact powerplant mounted transversely to optimize cabin space and safety crumple zones. This generation emphasized Volvo’s “Scandinavian Luxury” design language, featuring a cleaner, more ergonomic interior, the signature “floating” center console, and a focus on advanced safety features such as Hill Descent Control and an updated Haldex All-Wheel Drive system. Manufactured in Torslanda, Sweden, the XC70 solidified its reputation as a premium, versatile hauler, appealing to affluent suburban demographics who valued utility, understated aesthetics, and industry-leading occupant protection.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | XC70 AWD |
| Model Year | 2008 |
| Generation | 3rd (P3) |
| Trim | Base |
| Body Style | 5-door Wagon |
| Vehicle Segment | Mid-size Luxury Crossover |
| Vehicle Class | Sport Utility Vehicle – 4WD |
| Market | USA |
| Platform | Volvo P3 |
| Assembly Plant | Torslanda, Sweden |
| Country of Origin | Sweden |
| Production Start | 2007 |
| Production End | 2016 |
| VIN Identifier | YV1 |
| Base MSRP | $36,775 |
| Destination Charge | $745 |
| Total MSRP | $37,520 |
| Powertrain | |
| Powertrain Type | ICE |
| Engine Family | Volvo SI6 |
| Engine Name | B6324S |
| Engine Code | – |
| Engine Configuration | Inline-6 |
| Displacement | 3.2 Liters |
| Bore x Stroke | 84 mm x 96 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel Delivery | Multi-port Fuel Injection |
| Valve Train | DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
| Engine Block Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Cylinder Head Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Oil Capacity | 7.4 qts |
| Oil Specification / Viscosity | 5W-30 |
| Horsepower | 235 hp @ 6,200 rpm |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| Drivetrain | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Automatic (S6) |
| Final Drive Ratio | 3.33:1 |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Premium Gasoline |
| Recommended Octane | 91 |
| EPA City MPG | 15 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 22 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 17 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | 13.8 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 18.5 |
| Estimated Driving Range | 315 miles |
| Annual Fuel Cost | $2,850 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 515 g/mile |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | 3 |
| Smog Rating | 5 |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | 3.2 s |
| 0-60 mph | 8.4 s |
| 0-100 mph | 23.1 s |
| Quarter Mile | 16.4 s |
| Top Speed | 130 mph |
| Braking Distance (60-0 mph) | 128 ft |
| Lateral Acceleration | 0.78 g |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 0.05 hp/lb |
| Dimensions & Capacities | |
| Length (in) | 190.7 |
| Width (Without Mirrors) (in) | 73.3 |
| Width (With Mirrors) (in) | 83.5 |
| Height (in) | 63.1 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 110.8 |
| Front Track (in) | 62.3 |
| Rear Track (in) | 62.3 |
| Ground Clearance (in) | 8.3 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 4,233 |
| GVWR (lbs) | 5,350 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | 3,300 |
| Payload Capacity (lbs) | 1,117 |
| Passenger Volume (cu ft) | 99.0 |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) | 33.3 |
| Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) | 72.1 |
| Turning Circle | 37.4 ft |
| Approach Angle | 18.6° |
| Departure Angle | 20.2° |
| Breakover Angle | 19.5° |
| Safety Ratings | |
| NHTSA Overall Rating | 5 Stars |
| NHTSA Frontal Crash | 5 Stars |
| NHTSA Side Crash | 5 Stars |
| NHTSA Rollover | 4 Stars |
| IIHS Award | Top Safety Pick |
| Small Overlap Front | – |
| Moderate Overlap Front | Good |
| Side Impact | Good |
| Headlights Rating | – |
| Front Crash Prevention | – |
| Technology & Connectivity | |
| Infotainment Display | 6.5-inch LCD |
| Instrument Cluster | Analog |
| Apple CarPlay | No |
| Android Auto | No |
| Navigation System | Optional |
| Audio System | High Performance Audio |
| Speaker Count | 8 |
| Wireless Charging | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | No |
| OTA Updates | No |
| Digital Key | No |
| Warranty & Ownership | |
| Basic Warranty | 48 months / 50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 48 months / 50,000 miles |
| Corrosion Warranty | 144 months / unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 48 months / unlimited |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 36 months / 36,000 miles |
| Specs.Autos Exclusive Data | |
| Engine Assembly Plant | Skövde, Sweden |
| Transmission Supplier | Aisin Warner |
| Gear Ratios | 4.15, 2.37, 1.56, 1.16, 0.86, 0.69 |
| Differential Type | Haldex AWD |
| Cooling System Capacity | 9.5 qts |
| Roof Load Capacity (lbs) | 220 |
| Safety Recall Count | – |
| Production Volume | – |
| Units Sold in USA | – |
Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The 2008 Volvo XC70 is highly regarded in the used car market for its exceptional comfort, vault-like safety, and genuine all-weather utility. While it offers a refined driving experience, prospective buyers should be aware of common issues, particularly regarding the Aisin-Warner transmission’s valve body wear and potential oil consumption in the 3.2L engine if maintenance intervals were neglected. The electronic parking brake and HVAC blower motor are also known failure points as the vehicle ages. Despite these concerns, the XC70 remains a compelling value for those seeking a rugged, family-oriented vehicle that avoids the high center of gravity and fuel inefficiency of traditional SUVs. Its timeless design and high-quality interior materials continue to hold appeal for enthusiasts who prioritize safety and practicality over modern infotainment connectivity.
