Volvo Xc60

Volvo XC60

Volvo cars have changed over the years. Once they had a reputation for being reliable and worthy but dull; now that’s all changed. Today cars like the Volvo XC60 are prestige vehicles rivalling the competition from the premium German brands. They are still just as reliable as they have always been and customers wishing to import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand and elsewhere can be sure that both new and used models will provide great service.

The Exterior

The XC60 is the Swedish brand’s best seller in the five-door, five-seat, mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) category. For reliability, this model is built on an advanced modular platform that underpins all Volvo cars in the 90 and 60 Series, sharing components. Most recently, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrids have been added to the range.

Quickly becoming the best-selling model in the Volvo range the XC60 carries the easily recognised and confident face of the company’s design language, with all the usual Volvo styling cues. Being a Scandinavian brand the iconic “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlight design has to be mentioned and there have been a number of subtle refinements to the exterior design, including a new grille, new front bumpers, and alloy wheel options.

The Interior

Minimalist Scandinavian design features strongly on the inside as well with natural materials or luxurious leather-free options as well as textiles. Most features are operated through the touchscreen or the multi-function steering wheel.

High-riding SUV’s are popular and the XC60 doesn’t disappoint in this regard, the driver looking down on other ordinary traffic. The driving position is superb, thanks to plenty of adjustment in the steering wheel and the extremely comfortable and supportive driver’s seat with electrical adjustment at all trim levels.

Volvo cars offer the latest technology with a connectivity and infotainment system called ‘Sensus’. It delivers an intuitive touch screen interface that combines car functions, navigation, connected services and in-car entertainment applications such as Spotify and others. The 9” portrait-oriented touch screen enables easy and fast access to a host of functions and features including navigation. Naturally there is smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A fine 10-speaker sound system is standard but optionally on new vehicles a 14-speaker Harman Kardon is also available.

Leg and head room is impressive all round even if the optional panoramic glass roof is fitted. Space is added thanks to the car being broader inside than many similar vehicles. Shoulder room for three adults sitting side by side in the back is great; it’s a spacious car with lots of storage space with nearly 500 litres of luggage capacity in the boot (trunk), more with the split rear seat folded to suit. Overall, the interior has a premium feel that won’t disappoint.

Driving The Volvo XC60

Thanks to big windows and door mirrors, the driver and passengers get an excellent view out. Slim windscreen pillars give a clear view of the road making it easy to navigate junctions. For once not optional extras at extra cost, every XC60 comes equipped with front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera, making it easier to fit into tight parking spaces. What is optional on new cars is a 360° bird’s eye view camera and a self-parking system that is genuinely useful.

New and used Volvo XC60’s have a choice of engines. Most recently mild-hybrid technology has been added to all models. Older models have a choice of 2.0 litre petrol or diesel units with marginally different power outputs. Whichever is chosen, drive is through an automatic gearbox. Some models are also VAT-qualifying vehicles, saving on tax.

It’s a Volvo so naturally the ride is going to be good and the standard suspension doing an excellent job of dealing with road imperfections and the like. R-Design variants have slightly lowered suspension but it doesn’t affect comfort unduly. Air suspension is fitted to flagship models and the XC designation indicates all-wheel drive.

Volvo has a safety reputation that is second to none and they make sure this is maintained, regularly scoring the full five stars in rigorous European safety tests. There’s seven airbags, electronic stability control and much more plus ‘Volvo City Safety’ technology on board, the latter being an autonomous emergency braking system which recognises other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and even animals.

Should You Buy One?

With their envious reputation for safety and long-term pledge for passenger security, Volvo’s XC60 is a practical, smart, efficient family sized SUV. Buyers would have to delve into the ranks of German prestige listings to match it. One of the best cars of its type available today. Check out our stock on the MHH International website for current availability and details.