We recently replaced our 1996 850T Wagon with a 2001 Volvo XC70. We'd always used studded snows on the 850 and with it's traction control, and front-wheel drive, it was like a tank in the winter. We could take it anywhere and everywhere and in any conditions. When I asked about putting studded snows on the XC70, my mechanic told me that "you never put studded snows on an XC70" since it's got AWD.

I'm inclined to put studded snows on anyway. I've only driven in snow a few times with the XC70 and I haven't been overly impressed, even with winter mode on. Our XC70 did not come with STC or DSTC.. The 850T with studded snows handled considerably better than the XC70 does with its almost-new M+S tires and winter mode enabled.

I'm looking for your collective thoughts on this issue. Have any of you put studded snows on your XC70s?

Thanks and Happy New Year,

Kazzlo

 

I have a 1999 V70XC. Best traction I have ever had. It has traction control. I have standard tires. However, I place a 250 pound tractor weight behind the back seat. Just don't roll the car!