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Volvo V70 / XC70

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Comments

  • rob222rob222 Member Posts: 49
    I posted this over on the XC90 group, but I would like to pose this question to your group as well.

    Doesn't seem like you can really deal down close to invoice on Volvos, like I've done with my other car purchases over the years. If I pay more than $250 over invoice, I consider it a bad deal for me.

    For comparsion purposes, the built-in profit on a loaded XC70 Wagon is a whopping 15.5%-$5,850 (8-11% is common less trendy cars.) The TMV on the XC70 includes 10.5%-$3,941 profit. Even if you buy it in Europe, not including other expenses beyond R/T airfare and one night in Sweden, the profit is 6.3%-$2,370.

    I guess this must be the world of the MB,BMW and other premium Euro cars.

    Anyone ever get a near invoice deal on a Volvo?

    Rob D, counting pennies in Sterling, Va
  • joelisjoelis Member Posts: 315
    The stuck up, ignorant sales people at the volvo dealerships sure want to make you think they are in the same league as MB and BMW. I sure don't consider them in that league.

    I think its a joke to be paying full MSRP for a volvo of any type, especially a heavily marked up XC.

    Still, they stick to their guns and usually don't come down much from sticker price at all.
  • glwusa2002glwusa2002 Member Posts: 2
    Trying to decide between XC and BMW AWD wagon. Anyone else go thru this exercise?
  • txvolvotxvolvo Member Posts: 1
    I'm wondering, of all the people out here complaining about how imperfect Volvo is, are any of you perfect? I doubt it. Volvo, like all other auto manufacturers, will sometimes experience technical difficulties with their automobiles. Our #1 core value has been and will always be QUALITY. Unfortunately, our vehicles are designed, engineered and built by humans. And we as humans have tendencies to err.

    As a professional automotive sales person for the last ten years I have sold more cars in one month than most people will ever own in a lifetime. I'm not boasting here, I'm just saying that I've seen a lot. Unhappy people will always find something about which to complain. While truly happy customers never say anything. Contrary to belief of some people, we really do make concerted efforts to go above and beyond a customers expectations. I have to go know because my client just walked in. If y'all are ever in Texas looking for a Volvo please holler at me. Good Day to all.
  • richardbrichardb Member Posts: 9
    ONE LAST TIME! The wind noise is a resonance and the only thing you can do is to close windows and sunroof until it goes away. My XC wagon sunroof does not auto open all the way. I suspect that it to minimse the noise. The manual states that fuel economy is less with windows down than with AC on and windows up.
  • richardbrichardb Member Posts: 9
    Answer to previous post. Volvo XC should always be trailered on a flatbed according to owners manual.
  • mat24mat24 Member Posts: 1
    Can anyone speculate on what Volvo will offer as incentives to buyers in June 2002 for the XC70? It seems that the dealers I visited have ample inventory of the XC70, but still are not ready to deal. Thank you!
  • revkarevka Member Posts: 1,750
    I just checked and I did not see any June Volvo incentives listed in Edmunds' incentives and Rebates section. While you're waiting here for feedback, you may also want to check out our Smart Shopper Rebates & Dealer Incentives discussion to see if someone knows something there.

    Otherwise, it's to check back with Edmunds' Incentive and Rebates section to see if something is posted soon. Good luck, and please keep us posted on your purchase. Thanks.

    Revka
    Host
    Hatchbacks & Station Wagons Boards
  • flapjack21flapjack21 Member Posts: 3
    I leased the 2002 XC wagon 3 months ago, and have been very happy so far.

    I considered the lexus RX300, and the Toyota Sequoia, but ended up choosing the XC over both. The Sequoia was too sloppy, and the rx300 felt too much like a minivan. I would have considered the acura MDX but all dealers in my area were sold out until June.

    On the positive side, the ride is very stiff, which I like, and is MUCH tighter than any SUV I've ever driven. The seats are the most comfortable car sets I've ever sat in. The child boosters are genius. The options on this car are tremendous, and make it a pleasure to drive.

    The only complaints so far - there was a defective side airbag that volvo fixed right away; the sunroof cover just started
    vibrating, which is annoying; the storage spaces for driver/front passenger are inadequate and oddly placed. Also there is a lot of engine noise when I 'punch it', and the 197 horses don't give this fairly heavy car quite enough power. And I would have expected a $40k car to have a better stereo and a disc changer.

    The car as a whole, though, has been a pleasure. I believe it's the safest car on the road, it looks great, and it's a joy to drive.

    Am interested to hear what other '02 XC owners/lessees have to say about this wagon!
  • icefan1icefan1 Member Posts: 14
    A dealer near me has three '01 and two '02 XC's for sale that were used as service loaners. Any ideas on what percentage mark down would be appropriate from 'Blue Book'retail on a loaner car. The sales person said they are in a "gray area" and do not qualify for factory certification and are not eligible for Volvo sponsored low financing or rebates. He said the dealer gets $1500 from Volvo to use the cars as service loaners and that would be taken of the asking price. They are asking about $36,500 for the 01's and $38,000 for the '02's. Thanks..
  • automan227automan227 Member Posts: 118
    In my past experiences with purchasing volvo loaners, I find that they are very poorly taken care of. Most of the time within the first week it needs to go back in for service. Additionally, most of them have been smoked in so it has the smoke smell (and potential burns in the seats as well), in addition to various possible rips,cracks and other missing parts that you usually would not have a problem with on a car like that.

    On top of that, for $38,000 you could get a new XC similarly equipped(least you could in my area last time I checked). Also a big factor is that they will not volvo certify it which could be a problem later on.

    Its up to you, but unless it is really discounted (Low to mid 30's) I would not even consider it.

    Just my opinion.......
    AS
  • icefan1icefan1 Member Posts: 14
    The ones I looked at was in great shape visually in and out. I'm just thinking that they should be marked down considerably considering what they have been used for. I'm just wondering if anyone else has purchased one and what their experience has been. I'm seriously thinking of knocking 15-20% off the asking price and justifying that with the fact that they aren't factory certified and I've lost about a year or so of warranty coverage. The dealer has agreed to let me take one for an extended (1+ day) test drive. Also will be looking at the Passat and Saab wagons for comparison.
  • automan227automan227 Member Posts: 118
    I purhcased one a while back (1998 Cross Country) and there were no visual problems with it. It was just the fact that they were taken care of very poorly.

    Like I said, for $38k you can get a new cross country...not a used one thats not certified.

    If you can't knock them down at all then don't do the deal.

    AS
  • kcarver1kcarver1 Member Posts: 1
    Just took a couple of test rides with my wife down here in TX in a W8 and then the XC. Drove both on exactly the same roadways (dealers are across from each other)

    Here is what I see at first glance, and would appreciate f/b:

    Power: Both felt virtually identical at low-end. The Volvo engine continues to surprise me. Only 5 cyl and it packs alot of useful hp. At highway speeds (65) you could tell that the w8 had more guts when punched.

    Noise: Xc felt quieter, except for "tire whine" on certain pavement. W8 more perceptable noise, but it was of the wind variety.

    Steering: W8 felt slightly tighter, more on track.

    Handling: W8 was slightly more carlike, but I think this may be due to suspension tweaks and ride height.

    Seats: Front -- about equal in comfort, with the edge going to XC. Back -- XC by a small margin.

    Controls: If it weren't for the fact that I am colorblind and CAN'T see the W8 central display, I would give this to VW. However, since I am colorblind, I have to say the Volvo has the slight edge.

    Stereo: Volvo wins this one, which amazed me since VW touts this "monsoon" system. The W8 system had no depth, and seem whiney in the cabin. Volvo's system sounded much richer.

    The two cars cost about the same, and we are torn which way to go.

    Kirk
  • svennissvennis Member Posts: 1
    In reply to txvolvo posting 254:

    The number one core value for Volvo cars and the brand itself would appear to be safety - an area where the human factor as well often plays the decisive role.

    Of course you can spend time complaining on quality, even recent BMW 7 series end up with the human factor component. But it is when you or your family end up in a crash or other kind of incident you really know why you bought a Volvo. "Quality" means little at those occasions, safety means a lot.

    But I do agree that when you buy something and pay with money (...) it better work.
  • crosscwcrosscw Member Posts: 4
    My son owns the Passat; I own the XC. The comfort level in XC is superb but the Passat handles the road like a dream. For the money, if you don't care about those cushiony seats, get the Passat.
    Nothing but perfection.
  • ern56ern56 Member Posts: 3
    Looks like a lot of folks are going thru the same exercise of trying to decide on vehicles to buy. I drove the W8 yesterday and found it to be a nice drive, good power and decent handling. Harder for me to drive the Volvo as there is no dealer in my town, but I was wondering what others have to say about the comfort level of the Volvo vs. the Passat for taller people. I am 6'2", my daughter is nearly 6' and my son is 6'6".
    The W8 does not have a fold down rear seat in the sedan, which is one reason why I am looking at wagons...space is still nice to have for those trips to the mountains or hardware/garden centres.
    Also, are there any ways to tweak a little more horsepower out of the Volvo? A few more ponies would be nice. Not necessary, I know, but sure is nice for those passing or merge situations. I don't really want to wait till January or so when the XC comes out with the higher hp. motor.
    TIA for your thoughts!
    Ernie in sunny Alberta.
  • toadmantoadman Member Posts: 39
    Drove one over the weekend. It is a nice vehicle. Like the get up and go. It has slightly better acceleration than my 190 hp Toyota tacoma. It even feels similar with the suspension. Fairly stiff but I think it also has a bit too much body role in turns for a vehicle that sits as low as the XC 70. I like the leather seats but it feels kind of tight as far as width goes. My dad who is 6', 260 lbs had a tough time fitting into the front seat. Didn't notice much in the way of road or wind noise. Would love to take this thing off road and thru the snow to see how it handles.
  • bodydoublebodydouble Member Posts: 801
    How come no one commented on that article posted in #233 about electromagnetic risks? Is that not a genuine health concern?
  • daveghhdaveghh Member Posts: 495
    I currently have a 2002 CRV and I want to put bigger wheels on it and I would like to put the Perelli Allroad tires on the vehicle.

    I heard the Volvo comes with Allroad... so I was wondering how they handled in the snow. Are they as good as Blizzacks or Arctic Alpine studless snow tires? Are they close to that good? Are they quiet tires?

    Thanks for your help...
  • bodydoublebodydouble Member Posts: 801
    What have been XC owners' experiences with regards to minor but annoying problems such as excessive oil consumption, burnt light bulbs and other electrical gremlins which seem to be quite common with other Volvo models, especially the S80?
  • consumeralertconsumeralert Member Posts: 1
    Lost control of my new 2001XC(with 5000miles) resulting in >16K damages.Not one air bag deployed. Car loudly vibrated, mechanical sound heard, steering wheel locked, brakes ineffectual and car literally hopped across 2 lanes of highway,hit guard rail almost head on and bounced around 180 degrees.Vehicle repaired(took over 7 weeks because parts shippedfrom Volvo were received damaged three times). Volvo field tech specialist certified car to be without defect. Less than two weeks later, another driver lost control with same sequence of events fortunately minus the impact. Car towed to dealership(Leiken Volvo-Cleveland) where car certified with no defects again and car returned.Customer Service informed me that if want out of lease to contact Volvo Finance but I can't sell the car to someone else who could be hurt in this vehicle. After over eleven weeks post accident,Volvo finally offered to trade for a "demo" at an additional cost($2700)!I declined as I had already purchased a different make car to transport to work safely while my Volvo XC remains parked-the only way to guarantee safety. By the way,Volvo does not participate in arbitration. "Volvo for Life"-almost cost me and my family ours!
  • bodydoublebodydouble Member Posts: 801
    But what are you going to do? You can't park it for the rest of your lease?!

    I guess you didn't think "Volvo for Life" was a trade offer! :)
  • marcoviomarcovio Member Posts: 2
    In response to KCARVER1, I'd take the W8 wagon over the XC for the same money. It has a better engineered AWD system (Torsen), far more powerful engine and fit/finish for Audi/VW are the benchmark for the auto industry. Handling the W8 in the curves is a lot better as well. On the otherhand, the Swedish ergonomics and design are unique and very stylish and you probably get better off-road clearance than the W8...but ya gotta ask yourself...are you REALLY going to go off-roading? Both wagons are great looking, with the VOLVO having the bolder style...the W8 is more subtle.
  • dcindcdcindc Member Posts: 3
    I've seen rumors that the 2003 XC70 will have the haldex AWD and a bigger engine. Can anyone confirm, deny, or provide more info? Thanks!
  • cjo87cjo87 Member Posts: 35
    Yes, I have just seen the 2003 info on the XC (currently overseas- big help). Yes, the Haldex AWD is on the 2003 XC.

    Engine has changed from B5244T3 to B5254T2. I have no idea what that means, but the HP rating has changed from 197 to 208.

    Anyone know the difference on the engines, or on the performance of the Haldex over the previous one?
  • dcindcdcindc Member Posts: 3
    Here's what I've been able to gather so far about the MY03 XC70. Most of it seems to come from Europe so I'm not sure if there will be any differences for US availability. Also, these are just rumors I've gathered off the web so I'm still waiting for some confirmation. Haven't seen anything yet on price.

    1. V70XC will be rebadged XC70.

    2. Haldex AWD: This is the electronic AWD that is on the S60AWD. My understanding is that the key difference is the coupling is electronically controlled rather than mechanically (viscous coupling). The advantages I've heard listed are: a) More responsive AWD; b) Can be used with electronic stability systems; c) somewhat lighter weight; d) can be disengaged so car can be towed conventionally (does not require a flat bed).

    3. New 2.5 T engine with 208 hp & 235 lb/ft torque. Sorry, other than the increased HP and torque, I don't know much about this. I'm sure someone who knows about the Volvo engine line could tell us more.

    4. New standard features include: leather steering wheel, wood dashboard trim, and a power passenger seat. I've also seen mention of other changes to the steering wheel and the HU613 Radio.

    5. New options include: rainsensor wipers, tinted windows, some kind of aluminum inlay (v70), and a new wooden steering wheel (v70).

    6. Colors: Ruby Red replaces Venetian Red (V70); Titantian GreyDark Grey Metallic (V70); and Crystal Green is a new color (XC70)

    That's all I've heard so far other than the new diesel model they have out in Europe already. Would appreciate any additional info, confirmation, pricing, or US release if anyone has heard more.

    Thanks!
  • jlfraschjlfrasch Member Posts: 2
    just read above messages, any word on two issues....will xenon headlights be available, and also will they ditch the plastic bumpers and make them color coordinated (like last model xc's and the xc90)?

    also, what web site can you get advanced info from?....thanks much!....JF
  • cjo87cjo87 Member Posts: 35
    Don't know about the headlights, but my understanding is the plastic cladding remains the same on the XC but is not on the XC90.

    Anyone know if the bigger 2.5T engine for 2003 will require premium fuel? I'm really torn between this vehicle and the Honda Pilot, which does not require premium fuel.
  • cjo87cjo87 Member Posts: 35
    I have never owned a car with a turbo, but am considering it now. I recently received advice that if I do this I should expect a very expensive repair at 100,000 miles because that is about as long as a turbo lasts. Since I tend to hold onto cars as long as possible, this is of concern. Does anyone have long term experience with Volvo turbos?
  • arbabcarbabc Member Posts: 36
    Own a loaded 2002 XC. Bought from Motorcars Volvo(Cleveland, Ohio). We have driven it 16K miles in @10 mos. Not a single problem yet. Both my wife and I just love this car. It has great pickup and handling. The ride can be a bit rough, but makes up in the way it corners. Headlight (non Xenon) are plenty bright specially when you turn on the fogs. Drove overnight to Connecticut from Ohio over July 4th, though torrential down pour, on a pitch black night, on hilly curvy I-80 though Pennsylvania. Could not begin to tell you how much new appreciation I have for this vehicle after this trip. Plan to do it again over Christmas break.

    The W8 is nice, but don't kid yourselves. VW has worse relibility rating than Volvo. Plus the ride height means that when a truck hits the car from the side, the bumper will probably be at the height of your head! If you care about safety, there is no other choice in this category, except the XC (and the Audi Allroad for 45K). The XC has as much ground clearance as SUVs such as the ML, and the XC won't roll in a crash as easily.

    Now, consumeralert, I am shocked and horrified by your story. I wanted to know if you have come to any resolution on this. Have you tried going to the local media with this story? I drive my son (now 14 month old) in my Volvo. If this had happened to me, Volvo would know they have been in a fight.

    As far as Leiken, when I bought my car in October '01, they would not budge from MSRP. I bought mine at near A plan price (1% under invoice) without being eligible for it. MSRP 40,800. Paid 35,000 plus taxes, etc. So needless to say, I don't like Leiken. My next door neighbour went and bought an identical vehicle(his is blue, ours is silver metallic) after hearing about this deal. I am sure 9/11 had something to do with this unheard of bargain.

    Good luck to all of you prospective XC buyers.
  • volvomaxvolvomax Member Posts: 5,238
    Bumper cladding unchanged for 2003.
    All Volvo Turbo engines specify 91 octane or better.
    You could run it on lesser gas but you wouldn't be saving a dime. The computers will dial back the engine and performance and fuel economy will not be as good as with the prem gas
  • volvomaxvolvomax Member Posts: 5,238
    With proper maintenance a Volvo Turbo impeller should last the life of the car @ 18yrs and 200000 miles.
    You must change the oil at the proper time and if you drive the car hard or over a long disatance at highway speed you MUST let the car sit and idle for at least 2 minutes prior to engine shutdown. This will allow the impeller housing to cool enough so the bearing won't be in danger of burning.
    I just traded a 95 T5R 275hp car w/ 85000 miles on it. Turbo never faltered once.
  • beerbuddybeerbuddy Member Posts: 2
    I have a 1999 xc I bought it as a Cert. PreOwned car. At 66,000 the Electronic Throtle control has gone out and the car surges and acts like it runs out of gas and stalls. Volvo's stance is that this is not covered under the warranty program. After several calls the dealership extended a Goodwill offer to repair the car and charge me 1/3 of the repair cost. I really like the car but their warranty program sucks.
  • bodydoublebodydouble Member Posts: 801
    Do Volvo turbos, and specifically the LPT on the XC, have a propensity for high engine oil consumption?
  • beerbuddybeerbuddy Member Posts: 2
    Hi B D,
    My XC dose not use alot of oil. I did have a leak in the oil return line that was fixed. But dose not burn above normal.
  • windywindy Member Posts: 7
    Hey everyone. Just bought a brand new 2002 xc w/ premium, cold weather, touring packages, and 3d row seat for $34,500. we had initially planned to buy baseline V70 for $29,500, but when we were offered this price on the XC, we jumped at it. (we hadn't even looked at the XC because we assumed it would be out of our price range, i.e., $38K). i have no idea why it is so cheap. we're picking it up monday and will keep you apprised. Kind of miffed by 5.9% financing. isn't this a ford?
  • revkarevka Member Posts: 1,750
    and congrats on your new 2002 V70! We look forward to hearing all about your delivery experience. Happy motoring!


    Revka

    Host

    Hatchbacks & Wagons Boards

  • windywindy Member Posts: 7
    here's a dumb question. on the 2002 xc the lights stay on as long as the engine is running. you can turn the light switch to either running lights or headlights. i can't tell the difference, in terms of brightness, between the two positions. am i missing something? is there ever a reason to keep the switch turned to full headlights?
  • volvomaxvolvomax Member Posts: 5,238
    There isn't any difference in brightness between the 2 switch positions however, if you don't turn the switch to the headlight position the hi-beams don't work. At least they don'twork in the States.
  • windywindy Member Posts: 7
    Vovlomax, thanks for the explanation. Makes complete sense. Incidentally, I'm not from Canada. I don't know why I have the Canadian flag next to my sign-in.
  • bodydoublebodydouble Member Posts: 801
    I read where windy says he bought the cold weather pack and I'm thinking: Isn't that standard in Canada?!
  • cjo87cjo87 Member Posts: 35
    Has anyone made any long trips in a XC with three kids and without the optional rear-facing seat? I am very close to buying a 2003 XC but have one kid in a booster, one in a car seat, and one in an infant seat. All this plastic fits in a XC, but barely. I am very interested in the experiences of anyone who has traveled like this because it is hard to simulate all the "interesting" situations that pop up with three kids and their assorted travel stuff in a back seat.
  • batstarbatstar Member Posts: 4
    Hi All,

    Here's another resourceful site for anyone wishing to know more about their XC and to discuss various topics with other owners.

    http://xc70.com/cgi-bin/ib3/ikonboard.cgi

    BTW, just curious...any resident XC members from Alberta, Canada?
  • orwoodyorwoody Member Posts: 269
    Hello,
    I'm new to this forum but came looking for some advice. My wife has a 98 V70XC which we bought new. Over the 4 years we've had it she has accumulated almost 90k miles. So far our only real problem has been with the head lamp electronics and cheap switches. She's started thinking about keeping this rig or trading it for a new 2003...her concern stems from the potential repairs that she might start facing once she gets nearer the 100k and above mark. She's also wondering if Volvo(Ford) has improved on the electronics reliability with the new generation.

    thanks
  • revkarevka Member Posts: 1,750
    Have you checked with Edmunds' Maintenance Guide to see what kind of TSBs (technical service bulletins) are listed for your 98 V70XC? Others here may have more to add. Good luck, and please keep us posted on your ownership experience.


    Revka

    Hatchbacks & Wagons Host

  • prodigalsunprodigalsun Member Posts: 213
    Hi,

    I'm looking to buy a used v70, and I'd like to get one with a 3rd seat. My question is, can I buy one without, and order from the dealer, or is it something that the Factory needs to do, and therefore I need to confine my search to wagons having that option?

    Any help would be greatly appreciated!

    Brad
  • mkrsw1mkrsw1 Member Posts: 12
    i want to hook my ipod directly into the
    stereo in my 99 v70 xc. i don't have the
    exact model number handy, but it's the single
    in dash cd/cassette/fm/am radio model, probably
    made by alpine. i'm currently using a cassette
    adapter, but i'd much rather go directly to the
    stereo. has anyone done this? is there a jack
    on the back of the unit that could be utilized
    in some way?

    mike
  • batstarbatstar Member Posts: 4
    Hi Brad,

    Check out ebay motors. There's a pretty good selection of used V70's with 3rd seats.

    I know for a fact that on later models (2001/2002)the 3rd seat can be purchased as an accessory through your dealer, although it's quite an expensive route. They come in gray, beige and oak colors. I believe in the U.S. the 3rd seat is included with the V70's versatility package
    Don't know for sure whether or not dealers would have 3rd seats in stock for older V70's though.
  • lulu2003lulu2003 Member Posts: 2
    Any thoughts on which is better for handling and reliability --the XC vs. the Passat AWD wagon
This discussion has been closed.