Category: Executive 
Price Range: £28,245 to £39,945
Huge boot, high level of standard kit, extra ability, good tow car.
No low-range gearbox, high centre of gravity affects driving dynamics.
Although a proper off-roader will ultimately be more capable on the rough stuff, the XC70 will go a little further, but just not far enough.
The heavy weight of the XC70 affects its economy and drives up its emissions. The diesel is the best engine of the two, returning 38.7mpg on the combined cycle, while emitting 193g/km of CO2. The 3.2-litre petrol manages just 24.8mpg and 272g/km of CO2, putting it firmly in highest tax band.
Servicing costs have been reduced over the previous model and insurance groupings are expected to be competitive. Don't forget to factor in the price of replacement side cladding and bumper protectors throughout the life of the car, as they're designed to get scratched and pitted. However, they should prove cheaper than getting the car resprayed.
