Volvo XC70 Model Years and History

The Volvo XC70 is essentially unchanged for 2016, save for a couple of new wheel designs in both 18- and 19-inch sizes.

For 2015, Volvo introduces some important new features in the XC70. Foremost is a new turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that makes 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Fitted solely to front-wheel-drive T5 models, it features stop/start technology and is mated to a new eight-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission. New standard features across the XC70 model range include an improved Sensus Connect infotainment system with a six-month complimentary subscription, Volvo On-Call with a 6-month subscription, power passenger seat, and power lumbar support. Trim levels and options have been reshuffled across the range as well, with Premier trim now including navigation.

For 2014, Volvo has made a host of small but important changes to the XC70. For starters, the front end is updated with a new grille and headlight designs and a restyled lower intake, while both front and rear bumpers are also redesigned. LED daytime running lights debut as well. In the XC70 3.2, a new analog instrument cluster is standard, while the T6 AWD receives a new adaptive digital cluster. A quick-fold front passenger seat and rear park assist camera are available in the 3.2, and the T6 features revised shift management software in its 6-speed "Geartronic" automatic for quicker changes and improved acceleration.

The Volvo XC70 remains mostly unchanged for 2013 with the exception of a few notable features. Active High Beam technology automatically dims the headlights for oncoming traffic while Tunnel Detection automatically turns the headlights on in a tunnel. The Road Sign Information Support system is also new, which helpfully displays road signs in the instrument cluster of the vehicle.

Volvo's XC70 continues on for 2012 with several notable safety and convenience updates. These changes include Volvo's Pedestrian Safety system with full auto brake, Volvo's City Safety feature, and adaptive cruise control with Queue Assist. Volvo's Sensus infotainment system, which debuted on the 2011 S60, is now standard. Several exterior trim changes have also been made, including reworked headlights, wheels, an updated 3-spoke steering wheel and several new interior colors.

The Volvo V70 has been discontinued for 2011, leaving the XC70 to soldier on as Volvo's only full-size wagon. To that end, the XC70 3.2's base trim is front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive with Volvo's Instant Traction optional. SIRIUS satellite radio now comes standard. The 3.2-liter inline-6 engine output has been bumped up from 235 hp to 240 hp. In the XC70 T6, output from the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine now reaches 300 hp and 325 lb-feet of torque. A power glass moonroof is now standard. In both XC70 trims, a cargo cover and power folding rear head restraints have been added to the Convenience Package, and a rear park assist camera has been added to the Multimedia Package, while a blue band windshield has been added to the Climate Package. Prices of XC70 trims have dropped. Volvo lowered the base 3.2's price by nearly $6,000, the 3.2 AWD is nearly $4,000 less and the T6 AWD's price is down $4,800.

A new sporty R-Design trim, featuring bigger wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and unique styling elements inside and out is available for 2010. Ventilated front seats with perforated leather are available as an option for the first time and the base XC70 3.2 trim gets dual exhaust pipes.

Following a complete redesign in 2008, the Volvo V70 wagon sees no significant changes for 2009, though its more rugged counterpart, the XC70, adds a new model--the T6. The T6 features a turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder that delivers 281 horsepower and 295 ft-lb of torque.

The Volvo V70 wagon and its more rugged counterpart, the XC70, have been completely redesigned for 2008. Both feature a new shape and a more contemporary appearance similar to that of the S80, and both are built on the same platform as the S80. The V70 and XC70 also get a smooth new six-cylinder engine in place of the former five-cylinder. For now, the sporty "R" version is discontinued.

The Volvo V70 wagon variants and the more rugged XC70 see only small changes for 2007, as they're due for a complete redesign for 2008. On all models, dynamic stability traction control is now standard and new side mirrors have integrated turn signals. Also, aluminum trim inserts have been added inside, a new "Tuscana" 17-inch wheel design is available on the 2.5T, puddle lights are no longer available, and option packages have been streamlined. The rear-seat entertainment system is now a standalone option. The XC70 gets some more extensive equipment changes, too. There's a new standard 16-inch "Xenia" wheel design, a new Convenience Package is available, and there are several new stand-alone options, including active bi-xenon headlamps and 17-inch "Oreander" alloy wheels. The third-row seat is no longer available on the V70, but on the XC70 it's still available as a retailer installed accessory.