Volvo C70 Road Test Reports and Car Reviews

Volvo C70 D5 2007

Yes, it looks great (like the wide shoulders of the car), and it puts a smile on your face looking at it and sitting in it. That is until you start the engine, which makes you check the diesel van next to you, and then you realise there is no diesel van next to you. The archaic sound comes from the stylish, sleek car you’re in! And corners are nerve breaking too. Somehow Volvo has managed to turn a very good chassis (same as Ford Focus) into a nervous, understeering and vague car that leaves you feeling disappointed. The springs and dampers don’t match, the steering feels dead and vague. It also shows the lack of rigidity of the body: probably that’s why the springs are softer than is good for the weight of the car. The autobox is probably the worst I have ever experienced (feels the same as my old 850 T5R): slow in response and not fluid enough. The turbolag of the D5 means that driving is much less relaxed than it should be: pulling away or accelerating means anticipating and often results in traction issues due to the delay in throttle response. The two rear seats are comfortable and usable for 2 adults, but with the roof down only below 30 mph. All in all: nice looking car, premium feel, but don’t expect it to drive well if you like agile, responsive and nimble cars.