Volvo XC60 SUV 2018 review | Mat Watson Reviews

TL;DR

The Volvo XC60 is a stylish, practical SUV with advanced safety features.

Transcript

this is the new Volvo xc60 and anyone know just how good it is well said why that's why I've come to this cause international launch here in sunny Barcelona and then test the car out on a variety of roads I'm going to play around with its technology see our practical it is and purposefully not tried any of its safety systems I'll explain more about... Read More

Key Insights

• The Volvo XC60 is a smaller sibling of the XC90, featuring a design that includes Thor hammer headlamps extending to the grill, and a more tapered rear end for a sleeker look.
• It offers unique features such as doors extending over the sills to prevent dirt on clothes, Swedish flag engravings, and upgraded safety systems including auto emergency braking with steering assistance.
• The XC60's semi-autonomous driving system requires driver engagement, ensuring two hands on the wheel, with no option for rear seat control.
• The interior of the XC60 is luxurious, featuring digital displays, fine nappa leather, and driftwood inserts, making it more stylish compared to German rivals.
• The XC60 offers a sophisticated driving experience, with a focus on comfort and grip rather than sportiness, and includes air suspension for a smooth ride.
• While the infotainment system is user-friendly, its touchscreen-only interface poses challenges while driving, compared to German competitors' swivel systems.
• Engine options for the XC60 include a D5 diesel and a T6 petrol, with the latter not available in the UK. The T6 offers impressive performance but is limited in availability.
• The XC60 is priced competitively with German SUVs, starting at around £37,000, with higher trims like the D5 inscription costing over £44,000.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the unique design features of the Volvo XC60?

The Volvo XC60 features a design that continues the family resemblance with the XC90, including Thor hammer headlamps that extend to the grill. It has a more tapered rear end compared to the XC90, giving it a sleeker appearance. The car also includes unique elements like doors that extend over the sills to prevent dirt on clothes and Swedish flag engravings on the dash.

Q: How does the XC60's safety system work?

The XC60's safety system includes auto emergency braking and steering assistance to help avoid accidents. While the system provides steering assistance, it does not initiate steering; the driver must do that. The system assists the driver in swerving faster and more stably around obstacles, and it ensures the driver's hands remain on the wheel, disengaging if not.

Q: What are the interior features of the XC60?

The XC60's interior is luxurious, featuring digital driver's displays, fine nappa leather, and driftwood inserts, enhancing its style compared to German SUVs. The inscription trim adds further luxury. The car offers practical features like electrically folding rear seats, a carpet with bumper protection, and optional air suspension for improved ride quality.

Q: How does the XC60's infotainment system compare to competitors?

The XC60's infotainment system is generally user-friendly, featuring a touchscreen interface. However, it poses challenges while driving as touchscreens are harder to operate than the swivel systems found in German competitors. To assist, the system includes larger graphics, although this doesn't completely solve the issue of ease of use while driving.

Q: What engine options are available for the XC60?

The XC60 offers several engine options, including the D5 diesel and T6 petrol. The T6 petrol engine, which is not available in the UK, features both a supercharger and a turbocharger, delivering 320 horsepower. Despite its performance, all XC60 engines are limited to two liters and four cylinders.

Q: What is the driving experience like in the XC60?

The XC60 offers a sophisticated driving experience focused on comfort and grip rather than sportiness. It features air suspension for a smooth ride and includes a switch for different driving modes, such as dynamic mode, which lowers the suspension and enhances steering and drivetrain response. While not as sporty as some competitors, it prioritizes a comfortable, confident drive.

Q: How does the XC60 compare to German SUVs in terms of pricing?

The XC60 is priced competitively with German SUVs like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLC. The entry-level model starts around £37,000, while higher trims, such as the D5 inscription, cost over £44,000. This pricing strategy positions the XC60 as a viable option for buyers considering luxury SUVs from German manufacturers.

Q: What are the practical features of the XC60?

The XC60 is designed with practicality in mind, offering features like electrically folding rear seats and a special carpet with bumper protection to prevent paintwork scratches. While the boot capacity is slightly less than some competitors, the car's optional air suspension can be lowered to aid loading, enhancing its practicality for everyday use.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Volvo XC60 is a stylish, compact SUV with a design inspired by the XC90, featuring unique elements like extended Thor hammer headlamps and tapered rear for a sleek appearance. It offers advanced safety features, luxurious interiors, and a sophisticated driving experience, making it a strong competitor against German SUVs.

• The XC60 provides practical features such as electrically folding rear seats and a carpet with bumper protection. It has a user-friendly infotainment system, though the touchscreen-only interface can be challenging. The interior boasts luxury materials and design, enhancing its appeal over German competitors.

• Driving the XC60 is comfortable and confident, with air suspension improving ride quality. Engine options include the D5 diesel and T6 petrol, though the latter is unavailable in the UK. Pricing is competitive, aligning with German rivals, making the XC60 a viable choice for luxury SUV buyers.