2011 Volvo XC70: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2011 Volvo XC70 is the addition of a front-wheel-drive 3.2 model in the U.S. Both six-cylinder engines are also updated, but the XC70’s basic design carries over.
About the 2011 Volvo XC70
Second-generation XC70 (2008-2016), fourth model year.
Volvo positions the XC70 as a wagon for drivers who want cargo room, long-trip comfort, and bad-weather confidence without moving to a taller, bulkier SUV. Its identity is the blend of wagon practicality, extra ride height, protective body cladding, and a safety-first Volvo feel. For most shoppers, it is the car-based alternative to an SUV: easier to live with on the road, but still useful for winter weather, family hauling, and light dirt-road travel.
The 3.2 is the practical, comfort-focused version, with a flexible 40/20/40-split rear seat, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth, and aluminum roof rails. The T6 is the quicker, more upscale version, pairing standard AWD and a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with leather seating, a power moonroof, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
What changed, by category
2011 Volvo XC70 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.2 Liter / 6-Cyl, PZEV, 3.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 24–25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 230–240 hp |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3300 lb | 3300 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 72.1 cu-ft | 72.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.6 in | 34.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Integrated Child Seat | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2011 Volvo XC70?
The biggest change is the addition of a front-wheel-drive XC70 3.2 in the U.S. It broadens the lineup beyond the XC70’s traditional all-wheel-drive setup.
Does the 2011 Volvo XC70 have front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive?
The 2011 XC70 3.2 was sold in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive forms, while the more powerful T6 has standard all-wheel drive.
Did the 2011 XC70 T6 gain more power?
Yes. The 2011 XC70 T6 increases from 281 to 300 horsepower and from 295 to 325 lb-ft of torque as part of its engine update.
What equipment changed on the 2011 XC70?
The T6’s power glass moonroof becomes standard for 2011, while alloy wheels move from standard to optional on the 3.2.
Is the 2011 Volvo XC70 a full redesign?
No. The 2011 XC70 is the fourth model year of the second generation, so its raised-wagon design and overall layout carry over.