XC70 - v - XC90

[WABB]

Both XC70 & XC90 have limited off road capability in comparison with Discoveries etc. As a keen fisherman I venture off road on a limited basis /& have found tyres to be an important factor - either vehicle's capability will be significantly improved by the fitting of winter/all season tyres such as Nokian Weatherproof or Nokian WR3 SUVs (see multiple threads on this topic) without seriously compromising normal use. Hope this helps your decision making process!

[Driver09]

Thanks guys that is a wagonload of help! Agree about the tyres It seems no one is singing the praises of the XC90. That ride height adjustment sounds promising although may cut down on cornering ability methinks.Looks like the XC70 is probably where I'm headed but will thoroughly check out both models.Thanks again very much guys, further input always welcome.

[Bonefishblues]

Originally Posted by Driver09

Thanks guys that is a wagonload of help! Agree about the tyres It seems no one is singing the praises of the XC90. That ride height adjustment sounds promising although may cut down on cornering ability methinks.Looks like the XC70 is probably where I'm headed but will thoroughly check out both models.Thanks again very much guys, further input always welcome.

A quick Youtube search will tell you much about the XC70's capability off road, but agree tyres are a key factor.

[skippyfox]

I've had 2 xc90's and have just got a xc70. To be honest the 70 is the better bus, don't get me wrong the xc90 is a fantastic car, but the xc70 is a more agile motor especially if you get hold of the 220 bhp engine model.

[999gsi]

If you want to go off road , why not buy a nice volvo for daily use and a get a Suzuki jimny or whatever it’s called for ploughing through muddy tracks. They get a good write up, and are. Cheap to fix... The tyres on my xc 90 are deffo not made for off road and tbh I wouldn’t want to every take it off road in case I damage it.. ps my sister had a discovery 3... Nothing but trouble and expensive to fix...

[Driver09]

Thanks for the info guys. 999 I'm looking to reduce my fleet/insurance/tax bills but thanks anyway. I'm more inclined to go with the Fox
So, I'm pretty much sold on XC70 having viewed a couple including a very nice "Ocean" edition, not for sale. So its a 185 or 220 bhp engine but which is best manual or auto? I'm used to both so I have no real preference but have noted the options out there.
Thanks again guys...

[Bonefishblues]

This isn't a car for a manual box IMHO. T'auto's the way to go. Besides, manuals are like rocking horse, aren't they?

[Driver09]

GOT IT! After weeks of research and viewings I'm now the proud owner of a 2005 XC70 2.4 (55 plate), diesel with 6 speed manual box. Prefer manual for mud and grass work but although tyres are very good I'll be investing in some Nokian'. 155k miles with cambelt change at 129k. Just one niggle, the multi function key fob (flick-knife) "needed a new battery", once opened I could see the battery was starting to rust and was weeping acid/alkaline. Replaced battery after some mopping and drying out but still not working. Is it FUBAR'd or can it be salvaged and how please?
Many thanks guys for all of your input to date.