Model tested: V70 D5 SE
Price: £31,479.61
Tested: September 2006
Road tester: Keith Collantine

Overall rating – 80%
The invasion of people carriers has cut demand for conventional estates, but the latter can usually be relied upon to handle better. Volvo has a particulary strong track record of building fine estates; the company even used to race them.

1. Looks
The V70 is conservative throughout; the signature tall rear light clusters are attractive, and the bulging waistline is nicely proportioned. It's not bad, but not outstanding either.
7/10

2.Looks inside
Behind the wheel the functional-but-dull theme continues. The centre console completely lacks character, but it's perfectly coherent and intuitive. But the cabin is a comfortable and pleasant place to be.
6/10

3. Practicality
This is the V70's trump card. Even with five aboard you can still chuck a vast amount of luggage in the back. You've got 485 litres of storage space with the seats or 1,641 with them down. The wide, low rear windows make reversing a doddle; I've driven superminis that were harder to park.
10/10

4. Ride and Handling
The motorway-tuned ride is comfortable but lacks feel. The trade-off is that the ride stays smooth even with the car filled. The controls are pleasantly light for such a big car, particularly the lithe steering and reassuringly refined gearbox.
7/10

5. Performance
The 185bhp D5 engine and six-speed gearbox is the best combination of performance versus running costs. 0-60mph takes eight seconds with up to 140 mph available.
8/10

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6. Running Costs
The D5 can manage 41.5 mpg on average, while CO2 emissions are pegged at 179g/km.
7/10

7. Reliability
With Volvo you know you've got a well-built car with dependable backup behind it. The V70 gives a tangible impression of all-round sturdiness and solidity.
9/10

8. Safety
All V70s feature driver, passenger and side airbags, plus curtains and whiplash protection. Electronic systems include ESP and traction control, plus electronic brake distribution.
10/10

9. Equipment
Alongside the usual gadgets are neat extras such as air vents in the B-pillars for rear passengers. Our car came with bi-xenon headlights and heated front seats.
8/10

10. X-Factor
If you're unimpressed with the size of SUVs but need lots of carrying space, the V70 is an excellent solution. A charm to drive unladen, it can manage heavy loads with ease as well. It lacks a little sex appeal, but you buy a V70 with your head, not your heart.
8/10