The Volvo XC60 has been a workhorse for the Swedish brand since it was first launched in 2008 as part of the S60 range of cars which had revitalised Volvo. It rapidly became Volvo's best selling car globally.
Because this was a time when Volvo and Land Rover were both owned by Ford, the technology used by the car is similar to that of the original Freelander. And there was never anything wrong with that.
The review car is based on a refresh that took place in 2014, and which got a new engine in 2016.
Although classified as a compact crossover SUV, the style of the XC60 always made it seem a larger car than its direct competition, which would include Ford's Kuga, Toyota's RAV 4, Audi's Q5 and similar. There's a typical Volvo handsomeness about it, and the brand's products are always distinctive, especially from the rear where the XC60's version of the full-height rear lights housings are unmistakable. The style is also evolutionary, and the new generation on the way shows that too.
Volvo has been solidly targeting the premium space for a long time, and is fitted out to compete against particularly the Audi range, so it isn't any surprise that comfort and refinement are major themes to help it gain traction there. There is a palpable sense of solidity when you get in and pull the door closed. The interior style and fittings are restrained but are clearly quality. Maybe because of where the car is in its life cycle, the screen that manages infotainment and the rear view camera seems a bit small compared to what has been coming out in more recent cars. It's one change that customers of the new one will find.
The XC60 is a roomy car, and its design means that there's really good headroom in the rear as well as for those up front. And lots of boot space — this is one for the long tour with a group of family or friends.
The review car was the Classic version, with R-Design, which latter means some special exterior trim and, more important, a somewhat firmer suspension setting that quite suits the vehicle.
The D4 2.0 turbodiesel first appeared in 2014, and last year got a boost in power to 190hp. The maximum pulling power characteristic promises very smooth operation with a wide band from 1740-3250rpm. That means the car will work without stress in any kind of driving conditions, motorway or mountain passes. My version had the 8-speed automatic transmission, and that worked quite seamlessly with the torquey engine.
The overall drive was very good, and I was happy that it had the R-Design pack, as the firmer suspension seemed just right for my style of driving.
The XC60 runout model is currently priced from €39,995 with a free Style Pack worth €2,000. The Style pack includes Front & Rear Park Assist, Rear Parking Camera, Active TFT Crystal Driver's Information Display, and Interior Lighting enhancement.
The new XC60 pricing starts at €53,950. Order books are now open and first customer cars will be arriving in October.
