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2006 Volvo XC70 Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.59
Based on 17 Owner Reviews β–Ά
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2006 Volvo XC70 is a rugged wagon, blending the practicality of an SUV with the comfort of a sedan. Part of the second generation (2001-2007), it boasts all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance. Key trims included the base XC70 and the XC70 Ocean Race edition. Pricing ranged from approximately $33,000 new. Its appeal lies in its safety, durability, cargo space, and ability to handle various road conditions. Its distinctive Scandinavian design also contributes to its popularity.
The Good

The 2006 Volvo XC70 provides a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, appealing to those valuing practicality. Its turbocharged engine offers decent performance. Renowned for reliability and safety, it provides peace of mind, attracting emotionally driven buyers. The distinct Scandinavian design is also an appealing factor. It's a solid value proposition for a used car, offering a blend of utility and comfort.

The Bad

Common weaknesses of the 2006 Volvo XC70 include potential issues with the automatic transmission, especially at higher mileage. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, may require replacement. Electrical glitches can occur, and some owners report problems with the climate control system. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these issues.

2006 Volvo XC70: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-5

  • Horsepower: 208 hp @ 5000 rpm

  • Fuel Economy:
    • City: 18 mpg

    • Highway: 24 mpg

  • 0-60 Times: Approximately 8.5 seconds

  • Towing Capacity: 3,300 lbs (when properly equipped)

  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base XC70:
      • Standard all-wheel drive

      • Leather upholstery

      • Power driver's seat

      • Dual-zone automatic climate control

      • Premium sound system

      • Alloy wheels

    • XC70 Ocean Race Edition:
      • Unique blue exterior paint

      • Special interior trim with Ocean Race badging

      • Upgraded wheels

      • Additional features may include navigation system

  • Common Options:
    • Navigation system

    • Heated front seats

    • Sunroof

    • Premium audio system upgrade

    • Rear parking sensors
The 2006 Volvo XC70 primarily featured a 2.5L turbocharged inline-5 engine, delivering adequate power for everyday driving and light towing. Fuel economy was reasonable for its class. The base trim offered a comfortable and well-equipped interior, while the Ocean Race edition added unique styling cues. A variety of options allowed buyers to customize the vehicle to their preferences.

2006 Volvo XC70 Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2006
Make Volvo
Model XC70
Trim -
Style All-Wheel Drive 2.5-T
Type Sedan
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In Sweden
Manufacturing City TORSLANDA
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 1677.84 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating 7
Engine & Performance
Engine 2.5-L 5cyl
Engine Size 2.5L
Engine Cylinders 5
Transmission 5-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $40,735 USD
Invoice Price $38,326 USD
Delivery Charges $695 USD

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What Problems Does the 2006 Volvo XC70 Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2006 Volvo XC70 often revolve around the automatic transmission, with some owners experiencing rough shifting or outright failure, particularly at higher mileage. The Electronic Throttle Module (ETM) was a known issue in earlier Volvo models, and although improvements were made, it's still worth checking. Suspension components, especially struts, springs and bushings, tend to wear out over time, leading to a less comfortable ride and potential handling issues.

Electrical issues, such as malfunctioning sensors or problems with the climate control system, have also been reported. Oil leaks, particularly from the rear main seal, can occur. Recalls have been issued for various Volvo models around this timeframe, so checking the vehicle's VIN with Volvo is advisable to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.

Long-term reliability concerns mainly stem from the age of the vehicle. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections of critical components, is essential to mitigate potential problems. Addressing issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into more costly repairs. Pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.

How long will the 2006 Volvo XC70 last?

A well-maintained 2006 Volvo XC70 can easily exceed 200,000 miles and provide 15+ years of service. However, longevity is heavily dependent on consistent maintenance. Neglecting regular fluid changes (especially transmission fluid), addressing minor repairs promptly, and ignoring suspension wear will significantly shorten its lifespan.

Long-term durability hinges on addressing known weaknesses. The automatic transmission and suspension are common failure points. Rust can also become a concern in regions with harsh winters. Preventive maintenance and careful driving habits are key to maximizing the vehicle's lifespan.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2006 Volvo XC70 featured a solid array of safety features for its time. Standard safety equipment included anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), front and side airbags, and whiplash protection system (WHIPS) in the front seats. Optional safety features included rear parking sensors.

In terms of tech and entertainment, the XC70 offered a premium sound system with a CD player. Some models were equipped with an optional navigation system, which was relatively basic by modern standards. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to newer vehicles, mainly consisting of ABS and ESC.

Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally favorable for the 2006 XC70. It typically received high marks for occupant protection in frontal and side-impact crashes. Remember to check specific ratings for that model year on the official IIHS and NHTSA websites, as ratings can vary.

While lacking advanced features like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning, the XC70 prioritized fundamental safety with its robust construction and standard safety systems.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Stone
Silver Metallic
Titanium Gray Pearl
Willow Green Metallic
Mistral Green Pearl
Ruby Red Pearl
Barents Blue Pearl
White
Graphite Gray Metallic
Interior Colors
Beige
Dark Grey
Oak
Black

2006 Volvo XC70 Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2006 Volvo XC70 had an MSRP starting around $33,000. Current used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The XC70 has experienced significant depreciation due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include its maintenance history, overall condition (interior, exterior, mechanical), mileage, and whether it has any desirable options (e.g., navigation, heated seats). Vehicles with a well-documented maintenance record and lower mileage command higher prices. Rust-free examples are also more valuable, especially in regions with harsh winters.

2006 Volvo XC70 Cost of Ownership

The 2006 Volvo XC70 is moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are average for its class. Fuel economy is decent but not exceptional. Maintenance can be expensive, as Volvo parts and labor are typically pricier than domestic brands. Repairs, especially for the transmission or electrical systems, can significantly increase ownership costs. While reliable when well-maintained, neglecting maintenance can lead to a cascade of expensive problems. Budgeting for potential repairs is crucial.

2006 Volvo XC70 Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 39.75 liters
City Mileage 5.23 km/l
Highway Mileage 3.57 km/l

2006 Volvo XC70 Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2006 Volvo XC70 Recalls & Defects

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date 2007-03-29
Recall no. 07e023000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Cardone Master Cylinders With Part Numbers 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987mza, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, and 11-3156, and With Date Codes Lower Than Dca7078 Sold AS Replacement Equipment FOR USE ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Seal ON Master Cylinder CAN Fail and Leak Brake Fluid.
Consequence Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Result IN Poor Braking Performance, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Cardone Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase ANY Defective Master Cylinders. THE Recall Began During April 2007. Owners CAN Contact Cardone AT 1-800-777-4780.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Cardone Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:electrical:navigational System(Global Positioning System)
Recall date 2010-11-08
Recall no. 10v566000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo IS Recalling Certain Vehicles Equipped With Garmin 760 Portable Global Positioning System (Gps) Units Because THE Batteries ON Those Units MAY Overheat.
Consequence AN Overheated Battery Could Lead TO A Fire.
Remedy Volvo Advises Owners TO Please Stop Using THE Garmin Portable GPS Device Immediately, and Visit THE Garmin Website TO Determine IF Their Unit IS Affected. THE Unit's Battery Will BE Replaced With A NEW Battery and A Spacer Will BE Inserted ON Top OF THE Battery Next TO THE Pcb. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON November 18, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Garmin AT 866-957-1981 or Visit Garmin's Website AT Www.garmin.com/Nuvibatterypcbrecall.
Notes Volvo Safety Recall NO. R231.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date 2021-10-14
Recall no. 21v800000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo Cars Usa, LLC (Volvo Car) IS Recalling Certain 2001-2007 V70 and Xc70 Vehicles. THE Driver's AIR BAG Inflator MAY Explode During Deployment, DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-Term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's AIR Bag, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed December 14, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Volvo Car Customer Service AT 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's Number FOR This Recall IS R10136.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-10-14
Recall no. 21v800000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo Cars Usa, LLC (Volvo Car) IS Recalling Certain 2001-2007 V70 and Xc70 Vehicles. THE Driver's AIR BAG Inflator MAY Explode During Deployment, DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-Term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's AIR Bag, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed December 14, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Volvo Car Customer Service AT 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's Number FOR This Recall IS R10136.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2006 Volvo XC70 Insurance

Insurance for a 2006 Volvo XC70 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2006 Volvo XC70 Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2006 Volvo XC70 competed with wagons and SUVs like the Subaru Outback, Audi A4 Avant, and BMW 3 Series Wagon. Compared to the Subaru Outback, the XC70 offered a more refined interior and a slightly more powerful engine, but the Outback was typically more affordable and boasted a strong reputation for reliability. Against the Audi A4 Avant and BMW 3 Series Wagon, the XC70 provided similar levels of comfort and practicality, but its performance and handling were not as sporty.

In terms of reliability, the XC70 is generally considered reliable, but some owners have reported transmission issues. The Audi and BMW alternatives can be more expensive to maintain and repair. Price-wise, the XC70 falls in the middle of the pack on the used market.

Alternatives to consider include a newer Subaru Outback (for better reliability and value) or a used Acura TSX wagon (for similar reliability and potentially lower maintenance costs). If performance is a priority, the Audi A4 Avant or BMW 3 Series Wagon might be better choices, but be prepared for potentially higher ownership costs. The Volvo V70 (non-XC) offers similar features without the increased ride height.

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70 2006 Volvo XC70 (5.0β˜…)

Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Volvo XC70 a Good Sedan?

The 2006 Volvo XC70 is ideal for individuals or small families seeking a comfortable, practical, and safe vehicle with all-weather capability. It's worth buying as a used car, especially if you find one with a well-documented maintenance history and relatively low mileage. A pre-purchase inspection is essential. Prioritize examples without major rust or signs of transmission problems. The base trim offers excellent value, while the Ocean Race edition adds unique styling. It's a good choice if you appreciate Volvo's design and safety reputation but are comfortable with potentially higher maintenance costs. Don't buy without a thorough check!

2006 Volvo XC70 Owner Reviews

4.59
Consumer Rating, Based on 17 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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HangeryD on June 29, 2020

Make sure service history is complete

Bought this model used for $3500 with 227k km on it. Ended up spending $5500 getting it into inspection condition (would be even more at a dealership), as xenon lights, steering angle sensor, and AWD Differential pump were all failing. Also had never had transmission fluid changed. Nearly every fix beyond an oil change requires Volvo's proprietary VIDA-DICE interface to reset or calibrate something. During repairs, the climate control module failed as well. To top it all off I'm left with a Four-C suspension error that cannot be reset or turned off because a previous owner replaced the struts with base ones. $2500 more if I wanted to get the Four-C struts back, before installation. Really all it has going for it is comfortable seats, numerous cupholders, plowing up hills, and a hope that all repairs are done for the next 100k km.

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Ferris Bueller on November 16, 2019

A forever Volvo

I have owned lots of suvs and own a BMW 328i sedan as well. I have owned a Volvo s40 sedan when I was younger. I needed something with AWD, so I considered another boring suv but liking a more sporty car like appearance I got the xc70. I have a 2006 model with 43,000 miles. I have a roof rack on it and a cage. I can put my bikes on top or in the back. It’s awesome in the snow. Good for pets in the back with an optional net or cage you can buy from Volvo. Love this wagon. It’s utilitarian and gets most stuff done. I plan on keeping this Volvo as a Ò€œliferÒ€ while owning another sedan. Plus this generation was the last to be truly Swedish as in built there I believe. Great vehicle.

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Pharkel on August 24, 2019

Most Reliable Car I’ve Ever Owned.

Great Vehicle. Not so wonderful if you are REAL tall. Great in all weather conditions. This is a vehicle worth servicing and repairing if it needs it. Last one had over 250,000 miles and still going strong.

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Buckeye Tailgater on April 25, 2019

Thought I would try a Volvo

I have only had it a few weeks, but it fits my needs, runs good. I like the performance with the turbo, the styling and the fact that it was a one -owner 52K mile vehicle with good reviews from owners.

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NCJustce on January 30, 2019

Great on road in ice and snow

This Car is dependable in all weather. Easy handling and comfortable. Angling of front windshield makes visibility to left and right when turning marginal at best.

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olddogg on December 15, 2018

Best AWD Wagon I ever owned

Great Performance for this Turbo AWD Wagon. MPG city 20, hwy 25-30 mpg. Driven on snow and iced roads never an issue. Lived and driven in the mountains of Colorado for 7 years.

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Jackie on November 30, 2018

3rd Volvo I?ve owned.

Love it! It handles very well & is totally reliable. The luxury features are amazing, heated seats, leather interior, excellent stereo system. The seats fold down easily to add plenty of space to the wagon.

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jack on May 29, 2018

very reliable

exceeded my expectations and fulfils my needs with acceptable efficiency ratings , safety ratings and reliability both the car and the dealer made buying a pleasure

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LAlovesVolvo on March 12, 2018

My XC70 is the most comfortable car I've ever owne

Volvo is a well-engineered, well-appointed vehicle with excellent maneuverability, gas mileage, and performance. The high performance engine can get you out of jam in a heartbeat, which is sometimes all you have. The engine pick-up lives us to its turbo status. I will definitely be a lifetime Volvo owner.

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JasonM on October 5, 2017

When it goes it all goes at once.

The vehicle is probably one of the most comfortable I've been in at the price range, but I think the previous owner beat in the car quite a bit. I put less than 10,000 miles on the car when the motor blew out (at around 188,000 miles). The turbocharger had not been replaced since the car was bought new, which is pretty astounding that there were nearly 200k miles logged on a single turbo. I replaced the motor with one that had just over 100k miles on it, and a brand new turbocharger and thought that was it, and that I'd be on my way. Unfortunately almost exactly 200 miles later the transmission gave out on me, and I'm just not able to justify dropping another 2,000$ US on this car to have something else go out on me. If you are looking at buying one of these cars I would definitely recommend it, they are both very safe and comfortable cars, but please do not make the foolish mistake I made of buying one with the mileage my one has seen.

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.