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.
Front-seat occupants get large sumptuous seats, if a little lacking in side bolstering, although those in the back don't get too much of a raw deal. Rear legroom has been improved over the previous model and the large glazed area of the XC70 - even without the optional sunroof - gives the interior an airy feel.
The boot is, unsurprisingly, vast and can easily accommodate a washing machine without much trouble. Useful rails, hooks and hidden compartments are fitted to help secure your luggage on the move. According to Volvo, five large and one medium suitcase, plus two rucksacks, can fit in the boot, with rivals such as the A6 Allroad struggling with half as much.
Standard kit is very good and includes 17" alloys, leather upholstery, aluminium trim, eight-speaker stereo plus air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors. Moving up through the trim levels sees extras such as the FOUR-C dynamic suspension system, bigger alloy wheels, power tailgate and speed-sensitive power steering added to the kit levels.
Volvo offers a number of option packages for items such as sat nav, stereo upgrades, integrated rear child booster seats, rear parking camera and roof rail systems.
