Volvo V70 T5 Review: Square room

What we like:

Strong mid-range performance

well-damped ride

the sheer size of the load area

more tax friendly engine than previously

What we dislike:

Numb handling

uninspiring engine note

Volvo’s recent interiors have been both practical and stylish. Up front, there’s that floating centre console design that first appeared several years ago in the S40. The ergonomics are spot on, the switchgear are all well placed and clearly labelled for easy operation. The seats are comfortable but are somehow not as cosseting as the previous generation model’s.

Rear legroom is not outstanding when compared to some of its competitors but is enough for most adults to feel comfortable. The boot, on the other hand, is just vast and voluminous. The load area is flat and there are minimal intrusions from the wheel arches. Furthermore, there is an additional load compartment under the boot floor for storing smaller items and odds and ends – this is one thoughtful estate indeed. With the rear seats folded, it offers whopping 1580 litres of cargo volume. A luggage compartment cover is standard and a boot floor load separator can be had as a cost option.

Overall build quality and perceived luxury levels are pretty impressive. The T5 comes with sanded silver inlays for the dash and centre console while the seats are wrapped in soft perforated leather upholstery with contrasting white piping. Another nice touch are the silk metal inserts on the steering wheel spokes.

The entry-level T5 is a very well equipped package as well – rear park assist, an electrically operated tail gate, cruise control, a high end stereo with iPod connectivity, dual zone climate control, rain sensor, electrically adjustable front seats and much more.

The new entry level V70 might have an engine that is as charismatic as the five-cylinder 2.5T that it replaces or the previous generation five-pot 2.0T but the new tax friendly and more efficient 2-litre T5 should widen the V70’s appeal to those who previously shunned it for its relatively big engine.

Credits: Story and photos by Raymond Lai