2005 Volvo V70 New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Volvo V70?
An exterior freshening includes new lights front and rear, as well as additional chrome trim on the front bumper. Inside, a redesigned center console includes improved cupholders and updated stereo controls. The sporty V70 T5 receives a boost of 10 horsepower to 257, and an additional 15 lb.-ft. of torque, for improved responsiveness. But the most interesting news comes later in the model year, when Volvo's new Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is offered as an option on the V70. BLIS monitors the V70's blind spots and, if the driver signals a lane change while another vehicle occupies the adjoining lane, sounds a warning to prevent an accident.

Advantages of the 2005 Volvo V70:

• Comfortable front seats
• Long list of standard safety equipment
• Available all-wheel-drive
• Optional Blind Spot Information System

Objections to the 2005 Volvo V70:

• Limited rear seat room
• Slightly downmarket interior materials
• Lacks ability to match German rivals in terms of luxury and performance
• Easy to bonk head when leaning into cargo area to unload

Editor's Advice:
To our eyes, the 2005 Volvo V70 is one of the most attractive luxury-sport wagons on the road. However, it lacks the dynamic refinement and performance of true luxury vehicles, continuing to rely instead on its extensive safety engineering and supremely comfortable seats as its primary selling points. Better than ever, and equipped later this year with a new technology that monitors blind spots on the sides of the car, the 2005 Volvo V70 is worth consideration if you value safety and comfort over refinement and performance.