The facelifted Volvo C70 is a modern convertible with classic proportions, four comfortable seats and a three-piece retractable hardtop. The C70 can be transformed from a coupe into a convertible with the touch of a button as the retractable hardtop folds away into the trunk.
In addition to increased flexibility, the retractable hardtop also makes for a quieter, more comfortable coupe. The large rear window glass offers outstanding outward visibility and improves body rigidity.
Changes for the current model include a re-designed front fascia, revised option packages and stand-alone options. A new Dynamic Package features new 18-inch "Midir" diamond-cut alloy wheels, dual xenon active bending headlights (ABL) and a 3-spoke sport steering wheel with aluminum inlays.
The Multimedia Package includes the outstanding Dynaudio Premium Sound system while adding the convenience of Volvo's HDD navigation system with real time traffic, remote control and map care.
The Volvo C70 is propelled either by its standard turbocharged 5-cylinder, T5 engine, or a specially tuned version of that engine with a bump in power.
In base form the output for the 2.5-liter light-pressure turbo powerplant is 227 horsepower at 5,000 rpm with torque at 236 lb.-ft. from 1,500 to 4,800 rpm. The flat torque curve helps puts the power to the front wheels evenly and makes the car feel responsive.
Opt for the C70 Inscription trim level and power jumps to 250 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 to 3,000 rpm.
A performance-oriented six-speed manual gearbox, once standard, was recently discontinued. A five-speed "Geartronic" microprocessor controlled automatic with "Auto-stick" function is now the only transmission option.
This turbo convertible is good for 19 city and 28 highway miles per gallon, while zero-to-60 takes 7.4 seconds.
Inside, the C70 is designed to accommodate four adults. The two rear seats have comfortably angled backrests and generous width. With a push of a button on the backrest, the front seats move forward to facilitate entry to the rear seat.
To more easily accept cargo when the roof is in the stowed position, the Volvo C70 comes standard with Load Assist. At the touch of a trunk-mounted button, the entire roof assembly is lifted several inches, increasing the size of the opening to allow for small tote bags to be dropped into the trunk.
The C70 is fitted with an impressive list of safety features. An important part of side impact and rollover protection is the Inflatable Curtain (IC). The curtain inflates upward from the door and has an extra stiff construction with double rows of slats that are slightly offset from each other. This allows them to remain upright and offer effective head protection even with the window open. The curtain also deflates slowly to provide protection should the car roll over.
Audio systems for the C70 have been developed to offer high-class sound reproduction with the top up or down. The standard high performance system features a 4x40 watt amplifier and eight speakers. Those seeking the ultimate audio experience will find it in the available Dynaudio Premium Sound system. It features an impressive total output of 910 watts of power, plus Dolby Pro Logic II Surround Sound and 14 speakers, including dual eight-inch subwoofers.
Two options packages are available with the C70. Premier Plus includes a rearview parking camera, a Keyless Drive system that lets the driver unlock and start the car without touching the key, a universal garage door opener and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a digital compass. The Platinum package includes all Premier Plus features and adds a navigation system along with the upgraded Dynaudio stereo.
Key competitors
The Volvo C70 is a unique proposition for the Swedish brand, focusing largely on style and fun, rather than safety and all-weather functionality. As such, it competes with sport-minded drop-top cars such as the Audi A5 Cabriolet, Lexus IS 250 Convertible and the Infiniti G37 Convertible.