THE third-generation XC70 builds on the reputation of earlier models by offering wagon versatility with a touch of all-terrain practicality, wrapped up in a luxurious, safe package. The MkIII XC70 adds another dimension, however, in the form of a turbo-diesel engine - for the first time in the XC70. The superbly finished new wagon is looking better value for money than before, too. Despite suspension built for comfort and not gold-medal handling, compared to the old car the new model begs the question: Unless you must have seven seats, is it really necessary to buy the XC70's bigger brother, the XC90?
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Volvo Cross Country/XC70
Released: September 2000
Ended: December 2007
Family Tree: XC70The second-generation XC70, built on Volvo’s P2 platform, arrived here in September 2000 and was called the Cross Country. It was facelifted in 2003 with a name change to XC70, and came powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder petrol engine with 154kW/320Nm and a constant all-wheel-drive system. Based on the V70 wagon, the XC70 was a mild crossover compared to larger and heavier SUVs. Until late 2003, when the big XC90 arrived and became the brand’s best-selling model, the XC70 was Volvo's only crossover vehicle.
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