New to me - 2012 XC70 T6 AWD [Canada]

[SignumGB]

Having reluctantly sold my 2015 XC70 D4 in July due to a move to Canada for my wife's work, I'm now back in the game! They are all petrol here and wasn't too fussed about what I got. Did fancy a P2, but most I came across weren't in that great a condition (harsher winters and more salt) so settled on a P3 2012 T6 AWD in Caspian Blue! 300BHP! 😎 This is my 3rd XC70 and 1st with an autobox (if someone can tell me what the + and - is for). My last two, 2012 D3 and 2015 D4 were manuals. Have to say, this thing can shift and really liking the automatic. Don't think I will go back to a manual if we move back to the UK after the 2-3 year stint here.


Has almost 243,000km on the clock and drives very well. Over here, sunroofs are standard so this one has one. Has a few extra bells and whistles which my last one didn't have (had a few) such as BLIS (blind spot indication system), rear heated seats (on top of the front ones), compass heading indication on the rear view mirror (not sure why that's needed). speed sign recognition, advanced sound and a walnut finish on the dash!


As I am in Quebec Province, winter tyres are already fitted (legal requirement prior to 1st December). First thing I'll be getting done is a cam belt change and a good check over. Here in Canada, a lot of the Provinces don't have the equivalent of a MOT as it's not a requirement. The locals are entrusted themselves to keep their vehicles in good order. I have seen a few howlers on the road and may explain why car insurance is super expensive here. Few photos attached at an appropriate place! 🇸🇪

[bracken78]

Very nice. How much is fuel in Canada?

[Tatsfield]

The * and - may be your solution to the slow transmission! It's all written up in the owners manual and if the car didn't come with one, this link takes you to one online: https://az685612.vo.msecnd.net/pdfs/...EN_tp14092.pdf

Briefly, if you push the selection lever over to the left into the "S" setting (Sport) the car will hold gears longer for acceleration. If, while the lever is in this position you move it either backwards or forwards to the + and - the transmission will change gear sequentially like a motorbike. In that way you can drive the box like a manual if it suits you.

Personally I have come to accept the box's shortcomings and concentrate on what it does well and work around what it doesn't do. My 2012 XC70 5D has a little less transmission capability than others who have posted here. It is loath to change down for engine braking when put in to S mode as others say it should but using the + and - solves that problem.

[SignumGB]

Originally Posted by bracken78

Very nice. How much is fuel in Canada?

Depending on where you are can fluctuate between 90p - £1.20 per litre. Seems to be in the Cities are more expensive and in rural areas, cheaper.