Like Tata did when it bought Land Rover, Geely Automotive has given Volvo the investment and the freedom to go and do what it does best, allowing it also to retain its homeland icon status.
The mid-sized XC60 SUV has for some time been Volvo's best selling model, and right up to its regeneration debut at the Geneva Motor Show last March, the nameplate was on a continuing annual sales uptick.
The new car has grown in most dimensions. In particular, a stretch in wheelbase will always offer a better drive and passenger experience. The platform is a scaled variant of the same one that has brought the larger XC90 and S90 qualitatively to the top of their space. Among other things, the company says it offers a significantly higher level of safety in any impact.
The style is a more crisp evolution from the first generation, with some stronger lines, and the details from the latest Volvos such as the distinctive rib through the headlights.
The central screen is again iPad-like, with the swipe feature to access more 'pages' of functions. I'd still prefer a knob to handle temperatures, but at least the screen version isn't fiddly.
All in all, the XC60 is a nice place to spend driving time in, a good blend of manageable size with roominess for occupants that's more than good.
My Inscription grade version was powered by the 190hp D4 diesel, with the standard AWD and automatic transmission. Set above the Momentum grade which already gives the car a very high level of specification, with the Inscription you get a bit more, including external detailing, and inside a powered passenger seat, nappa leather, multicoloured ambient lighting, and front LED foglights.
The review car extras included a winter pack, smartphone integration on both main platforms, and a €4,500 'Xenium' pack which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Park Assist Pilot, Parking Camera with 360deg Surround View, and a panoramic sunroof with curtain, as well as Volvo's blind spot warning and Cross Traffic Alert & Rear Collision Mitigation system.
Though there are many elements which carried over from its previous generation, the additional and improved parts of this model have combined to provide a car that drives, rides, handles and sounds a couple of levels up the premium ladder.
PRICE: From €53,950, review car €66,950. WHAT I LIKED BEST: The very high-definition parking camera system. STAR RATING: 4.6/5.
