The Volvo XC60 is a midsize luxury crossover SUV that offers a refined ride, plush cabin, ample safety technologies, and robust engine options. Since its launch in 2017, the XC60 has earned praise as one of the best premium midsize SUVs on the market and continues to hold its own against rivals like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. This in-depth Volvo XC60 review will cover everything potential buyers need to know.
The Swedish brand has always emphasized safety and family-friendly utility in its vehicles. The 2023 Volvo XC60 carries this focus while wrapping it up in genuinely upscale trimmings and athletic handling. While its powertrains could offer more firepower, the overall package strikes an appealing balance for shoppers wanting comfort with four-season security.
Stylish and Functional Exterior Design
Unsurprisingly for a Volvo, form follows function in the XC60’s handsome styling inside and out…
The exterior conveys rugged capability through squared-off wheel arches, side sills, and rear fascia matched with a sleek, tapered roofline. Full LED lighting plus options like 21-inch alloy wheels give it a flashier attitude over its boxier predecessors.
Accenting the refined Scandinavian minimalism within the 5-seater cabin are high-end finishes like walnut wood décor, Nappa leather, and metal mesh. Passenger space beats key rivals, while the rear seats slide and recline for versatile cargo room.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Technologies
As expected from Volvo, safety innovations headline the XC60’s tech roster – including sophisticated standard driver assistance features other brands charge extra for.
These encompass lane-keeping aid, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, road sign information display, etc. Upgrading to the $3,200 Advanced package bundles handy extras like a 360-degree parking camera, head-up display, adaptive cruise control with steering support, and more.
There’s also handy connectivity via Google’s Android OS embedded in the 9-inch Sensus touchscreen interface. This enables native apps, navigation with Google Maps, voice commands through Google Assistant and over-the-air software updates.
Refined Powertrains Deliver Smooth and Comfortable Driving
The XC60 handles winding roads with precision while avoiding ride harshness thanks to its rigid structure and double wishbone front / integral-link rear suspension. All models feature all-wheel drive and 8-speed automatic transmission tuned for responsive acceleration.
Trim levels are:
- B5 Mild Hybrid – 247hp turbo/supercharged 2.0-liter inline-4
- B6 Mild Hybrid – 295hp turbo/supercharged 2.0-liter inline-4
- T8 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid – 455hp turbo/supercharged 2.0-liter inline-4 + rear electric motor; 18-mile EV range
Going from naught to 60mph takes 6.4 seconds in the B5, 5.6 seconds in the B6, and 4.9 seconds for the T8 – which rivals V6 performance. Gas-only variants earn 20/27/23 mpg city/highway/combined. The zippy T8 returns 27 MPGe.
Solid Value Starting Under $52,000
The 2023 Volvo XC60 range starts at $41,950 MSRP for the B5 Momentum trim, excluding $1,095 destination charge. The best value combination of features and price is the B6 Inscription model at $51,850. Fully-loaded T8 Inscription Expression tops out just under $70,000.
Competitors like the Audi Q5, Acura RDX, BMW X3, Mercedes GLC, and Lexus RX cost similar amounts. But none match Volvo’s emphasis on safety, leading-edge tech, and Scandinavian design elegance offered in the XC60.
Conclusion – Ideal Blend of Comfort, Safety, and Practicality
The Volvo XC60 earns its place amongst the top tier of luxury compact SUVs by artfully blending comfort, safety, premium features, and all-weather capability. It masterfully builds upon the brand’s reputation through thoughtful evolution inside and out.
Few rivals can compete with the XC60’s standard safety equipment, beautifully crafted cabin, potent powertrains, and value-packed pricing. This winning combination cements its status as an Editors’ Choice pick for discerning families or professionals needing a refined daily driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fuel economy of the Volvo XC60?
Fuel economy ranges from 20 mpg city / 27 highway for gas-only versions, up to 27 MPGe for the T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid model.
How much cargo space does the XC60 have?
With the rear seats up, the cargo volume is 29.7 cubic feet. Folding the 60/40 rear seatbacks down expands space to 68.7 cubic feet for bulkier hauling needs.
What warranty coverage does Volvo offer?
XC60 purchases include a 4-year / 50,000-mile limited warranty along with complimentary scheduled maintenance for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles.
Does the XC60 have 3rd-row seating?
No, the Volvo XC60 is exclusively a two-row, 5-passenger SUV. Shoppers needing a 3rd row should check out the larger Volvo XC90.
What safety rating does the Volvo XC60 have?
The XC60 earns top 5-star Overall Safety ratings from NHTSA. It’s also an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ thanks to good scores in all crash tests.
