V70 T6 - should I?

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Discussion

Babw

Original Poster:

915 posts

152 months

Tuesday 21st January 2014
quotequote all
So I need to change my 550i saloon for an estate.

My options initially were 550i estate, W211 E63 AMG or B8 S4. I discounted the 550i as there're far too few available, discounted the E63 after a test drive as the traction is pants and the looks are a little too hurse like.

I've pretty much been looking at B8 S4's but I stumbled across the 2007 onwards V70 T6 and I can't believe how cheap they are! Having another 2 cars to run it's very tempting to get a cheaper daily.

I've spotted this car

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2014...

The concerns I have are

1. I have no idea about Volvo's
2. It's going to feel a bit slow?
3. Being a turbo can I extract more power?
4. Any major reliability problems

I'm not concerned about the driving dynamics but I would like for it to have some real grunt to overtake safely and make some good progress.

Appreciate any input.



Edited by Babw on Wednesday 22 January 00:12

norchi

355 posts

228 months

Wednesday 22nd January 2014
quotequote all
For a lesser known manufacturer there is much of interest amongst Volvo's recent output, particularly with their XC90 and estates.

The engine in this car is made at Ford's Bridgend plant having originally also been destined for Jaguar, Range Rover and other Ford owned brands.

With regard to increasing outputs you can safely gain at least a further 30-35bhp by changing the software, but Volvo presently prevents this being done through the OBD port by a PINCODE system, so the ECU has to be opened to address it.

Volvo dealers vary greatly in their expertise and reputation, there are many non franchise specialists also of varying repute. It does help to know where you are located to give good advice in those matters.

Your best bet is to join (for free) and post up at www.volvoforums.org.uk and www.t5d5.org to get some broader feedback from current owners of these vehicles.

Regards, Don.





Edited by norchi on Wednesday 22 January 09:41

martinrpeachey

749 posts

151 months

Wednesday 22nd January 2014
quotequote all
Pretty much as Don has said.

They are a fast car, easily keeping up with the earlier T5 models but unlike the earlier cars, you don't feel the turbo "surge" as it's designed to have a smooth, progressive power delivery.

They are heavy - nearly 2tonnes but you won't feel it as the suspension brakes and AWD system makes it feel quite nimble.

The only issue I'm aware of is the auto box can be a bit troublesome when it reaches 100k if not looked after.

Babw

Original Poster:

915 posts

152 months

Wednesday 22nd January 2014
quotequote all
Thanks both, I should really arrange to drive one but they're pretty rare.

Will have a look around the above forums to try and gauge if it's right for me.

martinrpeachey

749 posts

151 months

Wednesday 22nd January 2014
quotequote all
www.expolicecar.co.uk usually have a stock if you don't mind silver or white smile

Babw

Original Poster:

915 posts

152 months

Thursday 23rd January 2014
quotequote all
pmjg66 said:
hanged a few at only 30-40k a few years ago....

Very temperamental and expensive !
Well I drove one today and it did feel rather slow compared to the 550i. I thought the turbo motor would make some palpable torque but wasn't really to be.

Back to the German commoners I think. The 335i looks tempting.