Market Position:
The 2009 Volvo C70 is positioned as a premium, compact executive convertible, emphasizing Scandinavian design, safety, and a refined driving experience. It competes with other European luxury convertibles in its class, offering a unique blend of style and practicality with its retractable hardtop.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with models such as the BMW 3 Series Convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (later models), and Infiniti G37 Convertible. The C70 distinguishes itself with its advanced three-piece retractable hardtop and Volvo's renowned safety features.
Key Features:
Power retractable hardtop, sleek Scandinavian design, advanced safety systems, comfortable interior, turbocharged performance, available premium audio and technology features.
Systems Covered:
Vehicle controls, dashboard and instruments, climate control system, audio system, navigation system (if equipped), power convertible roof operation, lighting system, mirrors and windows, seating and interior features, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), security system, driving and operation, engine, transmission, brakes, steering, wheels and tires, fuel system, exhaust system, electrical system overview, maintenance, troubleshooting.
Roof System Coverage:
Detailed operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting for the three-piece power retractable hardtop, including stowage and deployment procedures, and care of seals.
Procedures Included:
Starting and driving the vehicle, operating the power retractable hardtop, using the climate control and audio systems, adjusting seats and mirrors, understanding warning lights and messages, basic maintenance checks (fluid levels, tire pressure), tire changing procedure, jump starting, fuses and bulbs replacement, refuelling, locking and unlocking procedures, child seat installation guidelines.
Technical Depth:
Designed for the vehicle owner, providing essential information for operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a service manual.
File Format:
N/A (Printed)
Print Quality:
High-quality paper and printing, characteristic of Volvo's premium documentation.
Binding Type:
Stapled or perfect bound, designed for durability within the vehicle's glove compartment.
Paper Type:
Durable, semi-gloss paper stock suitable for frequent handling.
Engine Type:
Inline 5-cylinder, turbocharged
Engine Code Typical:
B5241T5 (2.4L Turbocharged)
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2435 cc)
Horsepower Peak:
227 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque Peak:
236 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm (with overboost function potentially offering more)
Engine Torque With Overboost:
236 lb-ft (320 Nm) normally, with an overboost function capable of momentarily providing up to 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) under certain acceleration conditions.
Fuel Induction:
Electronic fuel injection (MPI) with turbocharging
Fuel Type Recommended:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Emissions Standard:
Meets EPA and CARB standards (California variants might differ)
Transmission Type Standard:
6-Speed Geartronic Automatic Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
None offered for this model year in North America.
Transmission Features:
Geartronic manual shifting mode, adaptive shift logic.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Volvo's own synthetic automatic transmission fluid (e.g., JWS 3309 or equivalent, consult specific service data for exact Volvo part number).
Length:
177.9 inches (4519 mm)
Width:
71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Height:
55.2 inches (1402 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.2 inches (2646 mm)
Front Track:
60.9 inches (1547 mm)
Rear Track:
60.2 inches (1529 mm)
Seating Capacity:
4 passengers
Cargo Volume Top Down:
Approximately 5.1 cubic feet (145 liters)
Cargo Volume Top Up:
Approximately 13.1 cubic feet (370 liters)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3700 - 3800 lbs (1678 - 1724 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 4740 lbs (2150 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and passenger in frontal crash tests, based on similar Volvo models of the era)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for vehicles tested, likely similar rating for C70)
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good (a key focus for convertibles, Volvo generally excels here)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC).
Passive Safety Features:
Dual-stage front airbags, front side-impact airbags with head extensions, Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) in front seats, Inflatable Curtain (IC) side airbags (unique for a convertible, protecting occupants during side impacts and rollovers), three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, reinforced chassis and A-pillars, Roll Over Protection System (ROPS) - pop-up roll bars.
Infotainment System:
Volvo's Premium Sound System with CD player, MP3 capability, and auxiliary input. Optional SiriusXM satellite radio. Some models may have integrated Bluetooth for hands-free calling.
Display Type:
Central dashboard display for audio, climate, and vehicle settings. Color LCD screen for navigation and infotainment on equipped models.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror, parking assistance sensors (rear, optional front).
Navigation System:
Optional integrated Volvo Navigation System with DVD-based maps.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input, optional Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls.
Lighting Features:
Bi-Xenon headlights with Active Bending Lights (ABL) optional, LED taillights.
Oil Change Interval Typical:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Approximately 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately 60,000 miles for iridium-tipped plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Consult service manual, typically around 50,000 - 75,000 miles for a drain and fill, though a flush is often not recommended for these transmissions.
Timing Belt Chain:
This generation C70 uses a timing chain, which generally does not require periodic replacement but should be inspected as part of major services.
Engine Oil Type And Capacity:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic engine oil. Capacity approximately 6.1 US quarts (5.8 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Volvo's long-life coolant (blue color, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Refer to manual; often specific ATF or hydraulic fluid (e.g., CHF 11S or equivalent).
Known Issues Convertible Roof:
Potential issues with hydraulic pump, seals, and sensors related to the retractable hardtop. Keep mechanisms clean and lubricated. Water leaks can occur if seals degrade.
Known Issues Electrical:
Occasional issues with window regulators, central locking, and infotainment system glitches.
Known Issues Engine Turbo:
PCV system issues can lead to oil leaks or vacuum problems. Turbocharger hoses can crack.
Brand Heritage:
Volvo Cars, founded in 1927, has a long-standing reputation for safety, reliability, and innovative engineering, particularly in areas of passive and active safety features.
Model Evolution C70:
The C70 nameplate was first introduced in the late 1990s. The 2009 model represents the second generation of the C70, launched in 2006, which transitioned from a soft-top convertible to a sophisticated three-piece retractable hardtop coupe-cabriolet, built in collaboration with Pininfarina. It shares its platform (P1) with other Volvo models like the S40 and V50.
Production Location:
Uddevalla, Sweden (by Pininfarina Sverige AB, a subsidiary of Pininfarina S.p.A.)
Production Years Generation 2:
2006 - 2013
Recognitions Safety:
Volvo vehicles consistently receive high safety ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS. The C70's structure and safety features, including the unique side curtain airbags for a convertible, contributed to its strong safety profile.
Awards Design:
The C70's styling, particularly its retractable hardtop and Scandinavian design, often garnered praise for its aesthetic appeal and elegant lines.
Ratings Consumer Reports:
Consumer reports typically rated the C70 favorably for its comfort, handling, and safety, though sometimes noted average predicted reliability for the convertible mechanisms.
Certifications:
Compliant with all relevant US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for 2009 model year.