Overview
The Volvo C70 arrived in 2006 during the middle of a recent boom in the folding-hardtop convertible market, and has so far met with limited success. But a number of recent changes make the 2011 Volvo C70 genuinely worth a second-look. Why? Mainly because of a major overhaul of its exterior that brings it more in line with Volvo's latest thinking in design, represented by the new XC60 and S60. Up front, that means a new grille (with an enlarged Volvo badge -- a visual punctuation being applied across the line), elaborately-flared headlights, and even spanking-new front fenders. The back is stamped with freshly-minted LED taillights set into a new rear fascia, while inside, there's a sleeker new dash, better textures, and C70-unique gauges.
The C70 is new in other ways too, including making Volvo's 5-speed automatic transmission standard equipment, along with premium leather, and Sirius satellite radio. What stays the same is the excellent T5 engine, Volvo's turbocharged 5-cylinder engine which produces 227 horsepower and 236 lb-ft or torque. Oh, and that nifty top, too.
The Range
Bodystyle: Retractable hardtop convertible
Engine: 2.5L turbocharged I-5
Transmissions: 5-speed automatic
Model: T5
What's New
The C70 features substantially revised styling via a freshened nose, grille, front fenders, headlights, rear fascia and LED taillights. The C70 has been updated inside as well with a new dashboard, textures, premium leather and unique gauges. Now standard is the 5-speed automatic transmission (the manual has been dropped), 17-in alloy wheels, Sirius satellite radio, plus two new colors, Flamenco Red and Ember Black. Meanwhile, the Premium package has been deleted; a new Convenience package includes rear parking assist and keyless ignition.
Exterior
The C70 enjoys a significant visual update for 2011, including a redesigned grille, headlight assemblies, front fenders, rear fascia and LED taillights. Being a folding hardtop convertible, the C70's appearance is sleek whether its lid is up or down.
Interior
The C70's major update includes a redesigned interior that features an all-new instrument panel, improved textures for the molded surfaces, a premium grade of leather, and unique gauges. A notable shortcoming, predictably, is rear seat space, although the
Performance & Handling
The C70 provides you with exactly one powertrain -- the 227 horsepower 5-cylinder turbo coupled to a 5-speed automatic. Fortunately, this is an agreeable pairing, capable of launching the C70 to 60 mph in a respectable 7.4 seconds. While the C70 is a pleasing car to drive overall, the extra weight of a folding hardtop is difficult to disguise, and others in its segment are more nimble overall performers.
Safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rates the C70 as ‘good' for both frontal offset and side impact tests. Significantly, the C70 offers unique side curtain airbags constructed to provide some protection even with the windows down, plus, remain inflated long enough to remain useful in a roll-over.
