Brewer’s tough decision

When I first started to sell cars, the business seemed simple. If you had a family, you bought a big saloon or a big estate.

But motorists have much more choice these days. It all began with the arrival of the humble hatchback in the Eighties. In the Nineties, off-roaders boomed, and now so-called crossover models are taking off.

Until recently, these cars were only for buyers with deep pockets. But now, the original Audi Allroad and Volvo XC70 are reaching used forecourts in greater numbers, so you don’t need such a big budget.

These two were the first models in the class to combine the practicality and ruggedness of a crossover with the strong economy of a diesel engine, too – and that makes them fine options for drivers who regularly cover long distances.

What you get
BOTH the Allroad and XC70 are fitted with four-wheel drive, which is great for tackling muddy tracks. It’s also a real benefit on the tarmac, where the added safety the system provides in wet and slippery road conditions is always welcome. Plus, the 4WD makes the cars excellent towing choices.

While beefy plastic trim and extended wheelarches are the order of the day here, don’t be fooled into thinking either model is a proper off-roader. With their raised suspension, they’re both reasonable over the rough stuff, but their long overhangs make them suited to mild mud-plugging only.

Prices
THE Audi Allroad starts from £5,000 – although I wouldn’t recommend buying one for that sort of money, as you’ll only get a model with more miles on the clock than Neil Armstrong’s Apollo rocket! Decent examples with 75,000 miles or so typically start from £7,500, and this is the least you should aim to spend. If you’re looking at splashing out more, I’d point you towards an 05-reg 2.5 TDI diesel version – this will set you back at least £14,000.

The Volvo is even cheaper, with prices starting at around £3,000. However, you really want the D5 diesel engine, and with reasonable mileage these models start at £8,500. Go for a three-year-old 05-reg example with around 50,000 miles on the clock, and you’ll have to spend nearer £12,500 – so the XC70 looks like a bit of a bargain in comparison.

Daily driving
THESE cars are incredibly reliable. I asked around in the trade, and nobody had a bad word to say about either estate. Then again, as they both come from prestige brands, you’d want them to be good.

Prices for servicing and parts from main dealers won’t be cheap for either model, so that’s something to bear in mind if you’re considering taking the plunge. Also, petrol versions will be thirstier than an England footballer, so be wary of expensive fuel bills.

There’s a common issue on the Audi – and it’s easy to spot as it’s to do with those pretty alloys. The intricate rims usually begin to corrode after a few years, and because the design is so complicated, getting them refurbished is a pain.

Many owners will have swapped to different wheels, but make sure they’re still Audi items because aftermarket rims will ruin that image you’ve paid so much to project! The interior colour trims on the Allroad can also be quite lively, so watch out for garish combinations.

The biggest problem you’re likely to face on the Volvo is actually keeping hold of the keys once you’ve bought it. The huge boot makes the V70-based estate a brilliant load-lugger, so friends and family will be queuing up to borrow it for trips to the local council tip or if a big piece of furniture needs moving.

Verdict

You can’t go wrong with either of these 4x4 estates. The Volvo is practical, capable and comfortable, and as it’s slightly cheaper, it looks the more tempting proposition.

The Allroad is the better-looking model of the two, and will also be more appealing for drivers. Its badge carries more weight at the golf club, too.

But the thing is, I don’t play golf – so I’d plump for the Volvo! In my line of work, I’ve always had an eye for a bargain, and that’s exactly what the XC70 is.

Extra Info

SPACE
The Allroad is the less practical choice here. With the seats in place, the boot has a capacity of 455 litres. Still, that isn’t far behind the Volvo, and is enough for most families.

INTERIOR TRIM
Audi is famed for its great cabin quality, and the big estate won’t disappoint. Neat switchgear and expensive materials really set it apart from its Swedish opponent.

BOOT
Even though the XC70’s suspension is 40mm higher than that of the V70 it’s based on, the boot makes all the headlines. It offers 485 litres, and extends to 1,641 litres with the seats down.

CABIN QUALITY
Interior trim is smart and robust, but the Volvo can’t match the Audi for sheer quality. A comfortable driving position is guaranteed, though, as the seats are simply superb.