Volvo
V40
Volvo
V70
Volvo V40 vs Volvo V70: 2018 Comparison
The short answer
The Volvo V40 offers fuel economy, while the Volvo V70 excels at power instead. Choose the Volvo V40 if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the Volvo V70 if power matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
V40
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and powertrain. For the first-generation V40 (1996-2004), owner feedback is overwhelmingly positive, describing these older models as "hell of a car," "solid," and reliable high-mileage vehicles that offer excellent value when well-maintained. For the second-generation V40 (2012-2019), sentiment is mixed to negative.
Best version to buy
For the second-generation (2012-2019), the consensus favors models equipped with the 5-cylinder diesel (D4) or petrol engines, noted for their superior sound and reliability compared to the 4-cylinder units. The 2.0L diesel engines are preferred over the 1.6L diesel.
Known issues
- ⚠**Second Generation (2012-2019):** * **Engine Reliability & Oil Consumption:** Piston ring issues in early VEA 4-cylinder engines (petrol and diesel) causing excessive oil consumption.
- ⚠**First Generation (1996-2004):** * **Timing Belt Interval:** Critical service item requiring replacement at specified mileage/age (e.g., 80,000 miles/8 years for petrol). Failure to do so is a major risk. Frequency: very frequent.
V70
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment among long-term owners, characterized by deep affection and loyalty. The V70 is consistently praised as a "tank" for its legendary durability, with numerous reports of high-mileage examples (250,000+ miles/400,000+ km) continuing to provide reliable service with basic maintenance. Owners express strong emotional attachment to the car's practicality, cavernous cargo space with fold-flat seats, comfortable "Swedish cow" upholstery, distinctive 5-cylinder engine note, and overall driving comfort, especially on long highway journeys.
Best version to buy
For the P2 generation (2000-2007), a facelifted model (2003+) is frequently recommended to avoid early teething issues. The turbocharged 2.4T or T5 engines are strongly preferred over the naturally aspirated 2.4 for their superior power, with the 2.4T noted as more reliable for modifications.
Known issues
- ⚠PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system failure: causes crankcase pressure, leading to oil leaks and blown seals if clogged. Requires replacement of oil trap and associated hoses. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Automatic transmission issues (P2 Geartronic 5-speed): hard shifts, shift flare, clunking into gear, especially when warm. Linked to valve body solenoids and fluid degradation. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠ABS module failure: causes intermittent ABS warning light. The module can be removed and rebuilt. Frequency: very frequent.
The verdict
The Volvo V70 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Volvo V40, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Volvo V70 are a dealbreaker, the Volvo V40 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Volvo V40 or the Volvo V70?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Volvo V70 than the Volvo V40. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Volvo V40 or the Volvo V70?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Volvo V40 is classed as a Crossover, the Volvo V70 as a Station wagon, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Volvo V40 or the Volvo V70?
The Volvo V40 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 8.3 L/100km combined versus 10.2 L/100km for the Volvo V70, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Volvo V40 or the Volvo V70?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Volvo V40 than the Volvo V70. See the known issues comparison above.