Volvo V70 estate (2007-2016)

After a career that started in the late 1990s, the Volvo V70 was effectively replaced by the larger – and considerably more expensive – V90 in 2016. It still has a lot going for it, with a well-maintained example making a great value second-hand proposition.

While the Volvo V70's rectangular shape suggests that practicality is its middle name, the Scandinavian estate car is actually beaten for boot capacity by the Audi A6 Avant and BMW 5 Series Touring. The same is true of the less expensive Skoda Superb Estate, too. So why does the V70 come up short in the ways that a Volvo usually excels?

The simple answer is that the Volvo V70 is an extremely well rounded package that doesn't sell solely on boot space, comfort, economy or handling alone; it offers a unique blend of all of the above that many buyers find hard to beat.

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Towards the end of its production run, Volvo rationalised the V70 range to offer just two engine choices. Both were two-litre diesels, with 148bhp in D3 and 179bhp in D4 trim. The latter emits slightly more CO2, but as the difference only adds £10 to your annual road tax, we'd go for the more powerful version. The extra power comes in handy when overtaking or joining fast moving roads, and makes it a more relaxing car to drive.

The word 'relaxing' sums up the nature of the V70 best - it won't match a BMW 5 Series Touring for sheer driving fun, it's simply not set up that way. Attempt to drive it really hard and the it’ll get flustered and unsettled, but go gently with the controls and the V70 is a genuinely soothing car to travel in, and one that can effortlessly complete long journeys.

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Standard equipment isn't in short supply, either. Later V70s were available in three trim levels; Business Edition and SE Nav models both feature sat nav, air-conditioning, cruise control and DAB digital radio, along with Bluetooth phone connection, while the SE Lux model has leather trim. The interior is well furnished, with a distinctive, well finished dashboard, and everything inside feels like it'll withstand the rigours of family life. There's plenty of space for five, too, and Volvo seats are some of the most comfortable around.

The V70 hasn't featured in our annual Driver Power owner satisfaction survey for a number of years, but Volvo's overall record is strong. In 2017, Volvo finished in 7th place out of 27 brands, with engines, comfort and infotainment all coming in for praise. Owners are impressed by Volvo safety, too, with credence added by the V70's five-star Euro NCAP crash safety record.

Even fairly early V70s can be found within the Volvo sales network, and there are some very keenly priced examples to be found if you explore other pre-owned car dealers. We can help you find the best Volvo V70 for you with our in-depth buyer's guide.