Did you know that in 2023, the Tesla Model Y and the Tesla Model 3 were the two best-selling electric cars in Canada (Model Y: 29,582 units; Model 3: 29,122 units)? When it comes to electric vehicles, there's no denying that Tesla has made a name for itself in Quebec. However, not everyone who wants to drive an electric car wants to do so with the American brand. With this in mind, Volvo has...

Among the used Volvos available for sale, the Volvo XC70 stands out for its ability to maintain a higher market value than other vehicles in the range.
The reason is simple: it's the perfect combination of functionality, luxury and robustness, for which the Swedish brand has always been renowned.
As a result, this family SUV is extremely popular with Quebec drivers, even since it ceased production in 2016.
In this article, we explain what the Volvo XC70 is, its distinctive features and why it retains its value so well over time.
What is the Volvo XC70?
First launched in 1997, the Volvo XC70 is an upscale wagon that combines practicality and luxury.
In 2008, Volvo presented a 2nd generation that will remain in production in Canada until 2016.
But this vehicle wasn't created from scratch. The XC70 is a more robust and versatile version of the Volvo V70, thanks to the addition of a raised suspension and permanent four-wheel drive.
In fact, fire departments in Finland, Norway and Sweden have used the Volvo XC70 to access rough terrain during operations.
Finally, it was the XC70 that introduced the suffix XC, synonymous with off-road vehicles in the range and later to become Cross Country.
Why does the Volvo XC70 retain its resale value?
Now that we've presented the vehicle, let's take a look at what makes this car a must-have for Quebec drivers.
Torquey engines
Before introducing more economical 4-cylinder engines, Volvo offered two engines in its catalog:
- 3.0L and 3.2L in-line 6-cylinder engines
- 2.5L, 5-cylinder turbocharged engine
With power ranging from 200 to 300 hp, the Volvo XC70's noble engines can tow up to 2000 kg.
Permanent 4-wheel drive
Today, modern Volvos use a 4-wheel drive system called Haldex, designed to engage the rear wheels only when necessary to improve traction.
But the Volvo XC70 uses a permanent 4-wheel drive system. This means that power is permanently distributed to all four wheels for constant traction.
As a result, this transmission is preferable if you regularly use the vehicle in difficult driving conditions.
Livability
The Volvo XC70 is renowned for offering one of the most generous boot volumes in its class, even today.
With a trunk volume approaching 575 liters with the rear seats in place, and up to around 1,600 liters with the rear seats folded, families can transport children and luggage with ease.
Robustness (for winter conditions)
As you know, Quebec's winter conditions cause rust, sometimes severe, on vehicles that have not been treated against it.
But the Volvo XC70 was truly built for these outdoor conditions. As a result, it's rare to come across an XC70 in our service department with rust that could weaken it structurally.
Safety
Finally, the Volvo XC70 is a safe wagon, as the Swedish brand is wont to do.
What's more, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), an independent organization based in the USA, has awarded the XC70 the title of "IIHS Top Safety Pick+" in certain model years.
This award is given to vehicles that achieve the highest scores in crash tests, rollover tests and advanced safety system evaluations.
Where can I buy a Volvo XC70 in good condition?
No longer sold since 2016, all Volvo XC70s available for sale no longer benefit from a manufacturer's warranty.
We therefore advise you to check the vehicle's history, such as the condition of the automatic transmission and the all-wheel drive (AWD) system, which may show signs of weakness over time.
Despite this, Volvo XC70s are owner-pampered vehicles, and it's possible to find some with low mileage and a full Volvo service history.
But as this is a highly sought-after vehicle, we advise you to contact one of our sales consultants, who can carry out a personalized search.
Through the Volvo network, you can be sure you're buying a car that's been serviced at the dealership, while benefiting from a 72-point inspection.
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