First of all I was surprised by how well appointed the vehicle is, you almost expect the usuals like climate control, electric everything these days but leather seats were a nice surprise as was the roomy cabin. Make no mistake this is a huge leap forward for Volvo, the cabin is wide and spacious and although shorter than the XC 90 there’s plenty of room.
This is a beautifully appointed vehicle, the styling on this Volvo has been upgraded significantly, and the shape is vast improvement over previous Volvo styles.
New Logo on the grill was the first thing I noticed. Then there’s the use of brushed aluminum and the wide aggressive stance the vehicle has, looking firmly planted on all fours.
My first drive was the Petrol 3ltr Horizontally opposed turbo charged six cylinder, with power output of 210kw and a healthy 400nm of torque. The quoted 0-100km’s is 7.5 secs and I don’t doubt it.
The diesel is a different beast, Turbo charged & 5 cylinders, 136 kw’s and 400nm of torque as per the petrol but a more sedate driving experience. The diesel will still do 0-100km’s in a respectable 9.9 secs.
We even managed to get some air in this car, we pushed it really hard and the XC60 handled it without a drama, and for a $57,000 vehicle (starting price diesel) I see this as terrific value in the category.
Next came the real world driving, Highways, Dirt etc. The vehicle was very well balanced on the slippery gravel surface. The petrol version in particular is very refined and quiet. The diesel however, is a carry over from previous Volvo vehicle and as a result engine noise is a little more intrusive although it has been reduced.
The diesel wins in the fuel economy stakes with 8.3l/100km quoted against 11.3l/100km for the petrol. I did prefer the Petrol for response and power output. Both the petrol and diesel use the Volvo 6 speed geartronic automatic transmit ion
The Canberra test ground did allow some more spirited driving, this thing goes like a bat out of hell, with great brakes. It’s easy to drive and is one of the best-balanced vehicles I have driven, the 4x4 system is terrific. This car steers, brakes and corners better than some performance sedans. The all wheel drive system is beautifully balanced, un obtrusive in high speed testing.
This is the safest Volvo ever. The new City Safe technology is something to behold, our testing involved us letting go of some basic driving instincts, the system takes over and brakes for you. Quite amazing and you may even get a discount on your insurance premiums. Another little touch is hit the breaks suddenly and the hazard lights start to flash. Tick the Lane Departure warning option and you have a very smart and very safe vehicle.
This car is the start of a new direction for Volvo, they have turned a corner as a company and if your in the market for a mid size SUV then you would be mad not to consider the XC60.
Wayne Gardner, AM
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