XC60 – the A-student in class when it comes to looks, safety

Volvo is currently on a roll and its XC60 validates what’s great about the company’s latest variety of vehicles. The mid-size SUV crossover makes a strong visual statement with its dynamic and unique Scandinavian character. The XC60’s curves and sculpted bonnet create an impression of strength and refinement. Large wheels and distinct wheel-arches express the car’s athleticism and capability.

Volvo has always excelled in the safety department since it committed itself to protecting people in every car it produces. The ultra-high-strength boron steel – one of the strongest types of steel available – forms a rigid safety cell around the car, while crumple zones front and rear dissipate energy in the event of a collision.

The XC60 is available with a 360˚ camera that helps to make parking effortless by showing a bird’s-eye view of the car and its immediate surroundings on the large centre display screen. It’s especially useful when negotiating tight spaces, and can help you avoid costly car park scrapes.

I was impressed with the interior of the vehicle. It is beautifully designed and has an uncluttered layout that creates a calm and inspiring space, delivering a unique sense of Swedish luxury.

The minimalist considered design inside the XC60 allows you to focus on beautiful details such as the sleek centre display with touch screen and unique air vents with a slender, metal-finished control. The display combines smooth design with ease of use, reducing distraction with bold, clear graphics and a least of buttons. Its portrait format makes reading information and maps effortless.

Diamond-pattern finishes for the air vents’ control knobs, starter button, driving mode controller and steering wheel controls delight the senses, while carefully chosen materials are another example of an interior defined by contemporary craftsmanship.

I was very pleased with the space and versatility of the car. Thoughtfully designed seats maximise rear legroom, while the load compartment is well shaped, with a volume of 505 litres to the top of the backrest and up to 1444 litres when rear backrests are folded.

Loading and unloading is easier with the power-operated tailgate available for the XC60. It allows you to open or close the tailgate by pressing a button on the car’s remote control, tailgate or dashboard. When combined with the keyless entry option it also offers a hands-free function that means you can even open or shut the tailgate by simply moving your foot under the rear bumper.

Outside, the XC60 is defined by uncluttered lines and dynamic proportions. Large wheels and arches express its muscularity while integrated roof rails and tough side mouldings highlight its capable SUV character.

The XC60 has LED headlights for a strong identity and superior vision at night.

The XC60 has a choice of drive modes that allow you to adapt the driving experience to your needs. You can switch between three default settings for the engine, automatic gearbox, steering, brakes, stability control system and engine stop/start function. You can also create your own combination with Individual mode.

City Safety technology uses radar and camera to identify other vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and large animals ahead, day or night. It warns you if it detects an imminent collision and, if you don’t react in time, City Safety can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a collision.

The Run-off road Mitigation is a standard safety feature for the XC60 that makes it less likely for the car to be steered off the road accidentally. It detects if the car is about to leave the road unintentionally, at speeds between 65-140km/h, and then uses steering and – if necessary – brake support to guide the car back onto the right path.

Tech specs