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2018 Volvo XC60 Review, Pricing, and Specs

Overview

Volvo’s model-line overhaul continues with an all-new and fully modernized compact crossover for 2018: the XC60. More stylish, more efficient, more luxurious, roomier, and better equipped than the model it replaces, the XC60 is now far more competitive. A focus on safety is a given with the Volvo name attached, and features such as automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist are standard; more advanced tech, including a semi-autonomous driving mode, is optional. Few buyers will have complaints about the XC60’s driving dynamics, as long as they aren’t expecting outright sportiness, and the environmentally conscious among them will be pleased with its fuel efficiency and available plug-in hybrid powertrain.

What’s New for 2018?

Volvo’s compact crossover is all new for 2018 and borrows heavily from the larger XC90 for its mechanicals, technology, and Scandinavian-modern design. The new XC60 is much improved and wholly contemporized in comparison with the 2017 model it replaces, and it finds its place in the lineup above the smaller and similarly new XC40.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

  • T5 Momentum: $42,495
  • T5 R-Design: $45,795
  • T6 Momentum: $45,895
  • T5 Inscription: $46,295
  • T6 R-Design: $49,195
  • T6 Inscription: $49,695
  • T8 Momentum: $53,895
  • T8 R-Design: $57,195
  • T8 Inscription: $57,695

    Engine, Transmission, and Performance

    Volvo offers three different powertrains in the XC60, all mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with standard all-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid model—a rarity in this segment—provides up to 18 miles of electric-only driving range. Under the hood of base T5-badged XC60s is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four pumping out 250 horsepower. Most drivers will be satisfied with this engine’s performance, but for the rest of us, two other powertrains are offered that boost the performance quotient. The T6 model is powered by the same turbocharged inline-four as the T5, but a supercharger is added for more oomph; with 316 ponies in its stable, it feels peppier, and its performance on our test track was measurably quicker. Neither of these engines are all that refined, however, and both sound coarse, even when driven with restraint. The plug-in hybrid T8 version borrows the T6’s engine and pairs it with a set of electric motors for a total of 400 horsepower. It kept pace with the Porsche Macan S in our acceleration testing, but our test car exhibited an unbecoming lack of refinement while transitioning from electric drive to engine-on hybrid motoring. The XC60 can charge at either a 120-volt or a 240-volt outlet. A full charge requires at most 15 hours on standard 120-volt house current or seven hours on 240 volts. Acceleration and handling are both appropriate, considering the XC60’s vocation as a luxury crossover, but its unrefined powertrains and the hybrid model’s finicky braking system may be reasons to test-drive rivals from Lexus and Audi before doing the deal for the Volvo. The XC60 sticks well in corners, feels tied to the road while cruising, and changes directions with confidence, but it in no way inspires hooliganism in the way that the Porsche does. The ride can feel a touch harsh when driving over rougher stretches of road, but on smooth sections it’s agreeable and calm.

    Fuel Economy

    EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

    Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

    With interior styling and rich materials that mirror more expensive Volvos, the XC60 is like having your kladdkaka and eating it too. The quiet, comfortable cabin also provides adult-size accommodations in both rows. Clean lines and high-quality materials add a distinctly Scandinavian flavor to the XC60’s cabin—and we’d expect nothing less from a modern Volvo. Our Inscription test vehicle featured the Luxury Seat package ($3000) which provides nappa leather seats with power thigh and side-bolster supports in the front as well as heat, ventilation, and massage functions. Some among us found these seats lumpy, while others were pleased with their comfort and support. We also had the chance to sample the base Momentum trim without all the adjustments and massage, and the cushioning on those chairs was forgiving but lacked the supreme adjustability of the upgraded buckets. Decent cargo-hauling capability puts the XC60 midpack among its rivals both in our testing and in its measured interior volume. Interior cubby storage is limited, and the sole cargo-area bin is among the smallest we’ve measured.

    Infotainment and Connectivity

    A lovely iPad-like appearance is a good start, but Volvo’s Sensus Connect infotainment system lags behind rivals in usability and response time. Giving the XC60 a leg up over its big brother, the XC90, is a standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot feature. A 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system—which Volvo calls Sensus Connect—is standard on the XC60 and comes with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Bluetooth connectivity and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot powered by a 4G LTE data connection are also offered across the range. Navigation with real-time traffic and weather updates is available on the base Momentum trim for $1400 and is bundled with a larger 12.3-inch gauge display. Buyers of the R-Design or Inscription trims get the larger display and navigation system as standard. A Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system is available for $3200 and features 15 speakers, a 10-channel amp, and a 1400-watt output.

    Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

    For more information about the Volvo XC60’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

    Warranty

    Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer’s CPO program.


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