2015.5 Volvo XC60
Normally I am a sports wagon guy, and the recently reviewed Audi Allroad or Volvo’s own V60 should have really hit my sweet spot. But surprisingly I ended up liking the updated XC60 crossover better.
A midcycle refresh has given this already great looking crossover a face more in line with where Volvo is heading stylistically. 20-inch wheels insure the stance is right and voluptuous hips don’t look too big either. Inside the XC60 has one of the best cockpits in the class, with consistently high material quality, superbly comfortable seating and gorgeous details like the high contrast double-stitching applied to most of the things one touches. Size-wise it is more accommodating that the BMW X3 yet smaller than the best selling—but anodyne—Lexus RX series.
The optional Harmon Kardon audio system is a great value, offering superb sound for much less than some competitors’ system upgrades. The infotainment system receives software updates (including a version of the new Sensus Connect) but still uses the same, outdated interface. Volvo’s revolutionary new touch screen interface, debuting in the all-new XC90, may or may not migrate to this older vehicle; in the meanwhile this remains one of the XC60’s least competitive aspects.
Another area that needs some fettling is the way in which the otherwise excellent 3-liter, turbocharged T6 engine serves up its 300 horsepower and 325lb-ft of torque. Some nonlinear surging, flat spots in the power curve and minor vibrations in the power delivery undermine what is otherwise a strong performance (0-60mph in under 7 seconds), especially at higher elevations. While the six-speed transmission is decent and it’s no match for the eight speeders in the Audi Q5 and BMW X3/4, at least its paddle shifters allow proper gear control on mountain passes.
TheXC60 chassis tuning has reached a very nice place; early versions seemed overly firm for rough American roads; this one, despite its low-profile tires, handled bumps well—much better than the V60 wagon, especially—and cut through icy snowpack on Vail Pass with amazing alacrity for all season footwear, inspiring great confidence.
This is a very compelling midsize luxury crossover and it deserves as wider audience. As Volvo now has the resources to advertise such great vehicles, it can be hoped more folk will give the XC60 the consideration it deserves.
EPA ratings: 17/24mpg; 20mpg combined
Price as tested: $52,225
Here is what Volvo says about it.
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