The Volvo XC70 II 3.2 (243 Hp) Geartronic is a station wagon (estate) and crossover vehicle produced by the Swedish manufacturer Volvo between 2010 and 2013. Representing the second generation of the XC70, this model built upon the success of its predecessor by offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and all-weather capability. Positioned as a premium alternative to traditional SUVs, the XC70 II catered to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle with a focus on safety and Scandinavian design. While not officially sold in high volumes in the United States during its production run, the XC70, in general, gained a following among those desiring a robust and refined wagon.
Volvo XC70 II: An Overview
The XC70 II occupied a unique niche in the automotive market. It wasn’t a dedicated off-roader, but its standard all-wheel-drive system and increased ground clearance provided confidence in challenging conditions. It wasn’t a sports car, but its 3.2-liter inline-six engine delivered respectable performance. Instead, the XC70 II aimed to be a jack-of-all-trades, excelling in everyday usability and long-distance comfort. The “Geartronic” designation refers to Volvo’s automatic transmission with manual shift capability, offering drivers a degree of control over gear selection.
Engine & Performance
Powering the XC70 II 3.2 was a 3.2-liter inline-six cylinder engine, designated the B6324S5. This naturally aspirated engine produced 243 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3,200 rpm. The engine featured direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration contributed to a relatively high power output per liter of 76.1 hp/l. The engine’s transverse front-engine layout and the six-speed automatic transmission allowed for a 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h (130.49 mph). Fuel economy was rated at 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg) combined, with 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg) in urban driving and 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. CO2 emissions were recorded at 234 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The XC70 II maintained Volvo’s signature Scandinavian design aesthetic, characterized by clean lines, a focus on functionality, and a premium interior. The body style is a five-door station wagon (estate) with crossover influences, offering a spacious cabin and a generous cargo area of 575 liters (20.31 cu. ft.) minimum. The vehicle’s increased ride height (215 mm / 8.46 in) and robust suspension provided improved ground clearance and a more comfortable ride on uneven surfaces. Safety was a paramount concern for Volvo, and the XC70 II was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The interior focused on comfort and practicality, with seating for five passengers. Standard features included a comfortable driving position, quality materials, and a user-friendly infotainment system for the time. The XC70 II also offered a respectable towing capacity, with a maximum braked trailer load of 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | XC70 |
| Generation | XC70 II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 (243 Hp) Geartronic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate), Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 234 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Power | 243 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 3200 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B6324S5 |
| Engine displacement | 3192 cm3 (194.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1956 kg (4312.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2410 kg (5313.14 lbs.) |
| Max load | 454 kg (1000.9 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 575 l (20.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4838 mm (190.47 in.) |
| Width | 1870 mm (73.62 in.) |
| Height | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2815 mm (110.83 in.) |
| Front track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 215 mm (8.46 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Volvo XC70 II 3.2 Geartronic represented a compelling option for buyers seeking a versatile, safe, and comfortable wagon with all-wheel-drive capability. While production ended in 2013, the XC70 II remains a popular choice among enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of Scandinavian design and practical functionality.
