2007 Volvo C70 T5
By: Juan G. Robbin
Volvo’s new C70 hardtop convertible is a winner !
Volvo C70 T5 (2007)
Want the comfort, security and rigidity of a hard top but lust for a convertible? Why not have both! With the Volvo C70 T5 coupe you can have your cake and eat it too.
Hardtop convertibles are no longer new. Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, BMW, VW and Cadillac each have hardtop models on the market. Volvo though, has upped one by having a four place coupe with usable and comfortable rear seats in their new C70 T5.
The folding hardtop system is a work of art. We found ourselves enthusiastically visiting friends and doing a show and tell with this car. It’s simply mesmerizing to see the three panels do their slick choreography and align themselves perfectly for their dance inward into the trunk. Do it again ! Everyone asked…Keep in mind; pack carefully if you want to let the sun shine in, as the top takes up most of the available trunk space. There is room for overnight and gym sized bags under the stowed top though.
Driving the new C70 T5 coupe is a pleasure. The seats are comfortable and the car is smooth and quiet. The suspension gives a soft, plush ride, more like a luxury car than a coupe. The instrument panel and center console is typical Volvo; simple, sleek and easy to manage. Steering is smooth, but can sometimes isolate the driver from the road. The acceleration is typical from a 5 cylinder turbocharged engine, brisk but not overwhelming. Full throttle acceleration gives you a hint of turbo lag and steering wheel torque steer, typical from front wheel drive cars.
The fit, finish, trim and layout are all excellent, although we would have liked larger cubby holes and places to put things. The 5 speed automatic with manual, geartronic shift is smooth and easy to use.
Volvo is serious about playing in the luxury field, and the New C70 hard top convertible is a bona fide alternative to the Mercedes CLK and BMW 3 series convertibles with the important benefit of having a hard top.
The Volvo C70 T5 hardtop convertible; it’s like having two cars in one.
Likes:
- Style and design
- Comfort and ride
- Top operation
Dislikes:
- Needs more power
- Limited trunk space with the top down
The Essentials
MSRP: $38,710.00 MSRP (as tested): $44,075.00
Fuel Economy: (observed) 23.2 MPG
Engine: Turbocharged 5 cylinder 2.5 liter, 218 HP
Automatic transmission with geartronic (optional)
Dynaudio package sound system with 2X130 watt amp (optional)
Visit: www.volvocars.com