A Fierce Face and Comprehensive Safety Features

The key points of this minor model change for the Volvo C70 are listed below.

Consolidation to T5
Refreshed front face
Revised rear design
Completely new interior design
Seatbelt pretensioners equipped on all seats
High-performance audio system as standard
New adaptive brake lights

The front mask, now in line with the XC60 and the recently updated C30, presents a striking, fierce appearance. While the proportions and roofline remain similar to the previous model, subtle details have been refined to achieve a modern aesthetic.

Safety features have also been enhanced. A notable innovation is the world's first door-integrated inflatable curtain (side airbag), which protects occupants from side-impact collisions even when the roof is open. In the event of a rollover, the retractable rollover protection system (ROPS) bar instantly deploys, rising through the rear window to protect occupants' heads. Seatbelt pretensioners are standard on all seats. Additionally, adaptive brake lights are employed, which flash during emergency braking at speeds over 50 km/h, and may also activate hazard lights depending on the situation.

The car I drove was equipped with the Luxury Package, an optional 400,000 yen upgrade that includes semi-aniline leather seats, a premium sound system, Blind Spot Information Service (BLIS) to detect vehicles in blind spots, Keyless Drive, the Volvo Guard system, and 18-inch tires. The semi-aniline leather seats, increasingly favored in luxury cars, offer a wonderfully supple feel. The emphasis on interior refinement is clearly aimed at enhancing the experience when the electric folding metal roof is opened – a crucial aspect for a car of this type.

Power That Belies its 1,730kg Weight

The 2521cc five-cylinder engine, equipped with an intercooled turbocharger, produces a maximum output of 230 ps. Its characteristics include entering the turbo band around 2,000 rpm, delivering strong, progressive acceleration. The transition into the turbo range is smooth, providing a natural and powerful acceleration feel. The power delivery seems continuous, making the car's 1,730kg weight feel surprisingly light.

The ride quality, perhaps due to the 18-inch tires, was slightly firmer than one might expect from this car. Consequently, the vehicle's responsiveness when turning the steering wheel is sporty, appealing to those who enjoy spirited driving. However, the steering's fundamental feel is rather relaxed, suggesting it's not primarily designed for aggressive cornering. It seems better suited for relaxed cruising. Personally, I appreciate this characteristic, and I believe its distinctiveness from the ultra-sharp handling of German rivals like Audi and BMW could be considered a strength.

Open-top driving is a pleasure. Even on the highway with the side windows down, wind buffeting in the front seats is minimal. With the top up, both engine and intake noise are well suppressed, and wind noise from the roof is low, contributing to a quiet cabin. This truly reinforces the feeling that the car was developed for elegant journeys. With options like a 910-watt, 14-speaker audio system available, the C70 is sure to satisfy those seeking a car that offers a refined driving experience. I would likely recommend the 17-inch tires.

Volvo emphasizes its price advantage over imported rivals such as the Audi A5 Cabriolet (7.84 million yen) and BMW 335i Convertible (8.02 million yen). Indeed, with a base price of 5.49 million yen, and even with the 400,000 yen Luxury Package, the total of 5.89 million yen offers considerable value compared to the German models. However, it's worth noting that cars like the Audi are equipped with quattro all-wheel drive, fundamentally altering their character.

VOLVO C70 T5 GT
Body: Length 4,615 x Width 1,835 x Height 1,405mm
Wheelbase: 2,640mm
Curb Weight: 1,730kg
Engine: 2.5L Inline 5-cylinder DOHC + Intercooled Turbocharger
Max Output: 169kW [230ps] / 5000rpm
Max Torque: 320Nm [32.6kgm] / 1500-5000rpm
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Transmission: 5-speed AT
Price: 5.49 million yen