Model Strengths:

Snug-fitting retractable hardtop; quick, smooth convertible operation; practicality relative to other convertibles; comfortable ride; sharpened appearance inside and out

Model Overview

The C70 has been simplified down to a single trim with only one engine and transmission combination, though there are still plenty of option choices. All C70s come with a 227-horsepower, 2.5L turbocharged 5-cylinder engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. The C70 can accelerate plenty quick--to 60 mph around eight seconds--and the turbocharged engine works well with the transmission. EPA ratings stand at 19 mpg city, 29 highway. The C70 doesn't have the super-firm ride of a sports car--rather it's quite absorbent and comfortable--with a typical front MacPherson strut, rear independent suspension layout--yet the electric power steering gives the C70 a responsive, maneuverable feel. The C70 has a 3-section, retractable hardtop roof that includes a glass rear window and permits open-air convertible thrills in fair weather while also allowing comfortable all-season driving the rest of the year. The steel roof can be opened or closed with a smooth, well-coordinated electro-hydraulic mechanism in around 30 seconds, and it's unique among retractable hardtop designs in that it doesn't need extra space behind the vehicle and a mere six feet of free space above when the top is raised or lowered. For safety, there are roll bars that will deploy in an accident to help support the vehicle in case of a rollover; inflatable curtain-type airbags along with chest-and-hip-protecting side airbags are standard on the C70, along with all the safety features you'd expect, such as electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes. Standard features are plentiful on the C70, and also it comes equipped more as a luxury coupe than a sporty car. Front seats are excellent and there's just enough space to wedge two occupants in back, if they're small, but the trunk is quite spacious compared to other convertibles. A new Sovereign Hide upholstery is softer and standard; other features included on all C70 are keyless entry, power heated mirrors, fog lamps, dual-zone climate control, 8-way-adjustable power front seats, a Bluetooth hands-free interface and a 160-watt, 8-speaker sound system that includes HD Radio, Sirius satellite radio and auxiliary and USB inputs. The options list is where it gets really interesting. There are four major packages available: Premier Plus, Platinum, Dynamic Trim and Climate. The Premier Plus package adds rear park assist, keyless drive and a HomeLink garage-door opener. The Platinum Package adds a navigation system with live traffic updates and a 520-watt Dynaudio surround-sound system with 12 speakers. The Climate Package includes heated front seats, headlamp washers, a rain sensor and headlamp washers. For a sportier character there's the Dynamic Trim Package which brings special diamond-cut alloy wheels with Pirelli V-rated tires, plus bi-xenon headlamps and a specially trimmed steering wheel. Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is the only standalone option on the C70.

Model Changes

For 2012, Volvo's C70 convertible gets Bluetooth standard across the line, and two new trim levels have been added: Premier Plus and Platinum. Premier Plus consists of a passive entry system, HomeLink connectivity, rear parking assist and an integrated compass. Platinum includes all those features, as well as an upgraded stereo with satellite radio and navigation.

Model Value

Simply put, a lot of the C70's value lies in its excellent retractable hardtop roof which allows quiet highway cruising for long-distance trips as well as tight, 4-season insulation. The C70 has just enough of a luxury-car personality to be enjoyable year round, no matter the task, yet with the top down, it feels just sporty enough to make the most of fair-weather cruising. With all the C70's protective measures and on-board technology which includes a blind-spot detection system, safety isn't at all the worry that it might be in some convertible designs. Those who want to load their vehicle with the latest features and gadgets will love the C70's lengthy options list. On the other hand, the C70's moderate price can be rapidly driven up by opting for even a few pricy upgrades.