2012 Volvo XC70: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Volvo XC70 is a light mid-cycle update, led by standard City Safety low-speed automatic braking across the lineup. It also receives a redesigned dashboard, updated cabin technology, and a simpler equipment structure.
About the 2012 Volvo XC70
2008-2016 XC70 generation, fifth model year; not a redesign year.
Volvo positioned the XC70 as a premium wagon for people who wanted more cargo room and family usefulness than a sedan, but without giving up comfort, safety, or a slightly rugged feel. Its identity was a long-roof Volvo with raised ground clearance, protective lower body trim, flexible cargo management, and strong safety engineering. Against rivals, the XC70 stood out by blending wagon practicality with crossover-style stance and Volvo’s safety-first reputation.
The 2012 XC70 is a roomy, raised wagon with flexible cargo space and a strong focus on safety. The 3.2 is the straightforward version, with a six-cylinder engine and a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat. The quicker T6 adds a turbocharged six-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, leather seating, and a power moonroof.
What changed, by category
2012 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 / FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 18–19 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 24–25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 230–240 hp |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft | 221–236 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 | ||
| Privacy Glass | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Volvo XC70?
The biggest change is that City Safety became standard across the 2012 XC70 lineup. This system can automatically brake at low speeds to help avoid or lessen a collision.
Did the 2012 Volvo XC70 get a redesigned interior?
Yes, the 2012 XC70 received a redesigned upper dashboard. It also gained a standard 7-inch Sensus color screen and Bluetooth audio streaming.
Is the 2012 Volvo XC70 a full redesign?
No, the 2012 XC70 is not a full redesign. It remains part of the generation introduced for 2008, with updates focused on safety, dashboard design, technology, and equipment organization.
How does the 2012 XC70 T6 differ from the 3.2?
The T6 is the quicker and more richly equipped version. It has a turbocharged six-cylinder engine, standard all-wheel drive, leather seating, a power front passenger seat, and a power moonroof; the 3.2 is the simpler core model.
Is the 2012 Volvo XC70 meaningfully different from the 2011 model?
Yes, especially for shoppers who value safety and cabin technology. The 2012 model makes City Safety standard, adds the redesigned dashboard and 7-inch Sensus screen, brings Bluetooth audio streaming, and reorganizes the equipment levels.