Volvo XC60

Overview

Volvo XC60 is a compact luxury crossover produced by the elite Swedish automakers Volvo Car Corporation which was first introduced in 2008. The car is based on Volvo Y20 platform and has been Volvo's best selling automobile since 2009. Currently in its second generation, the car has come up with a revamped grille and headlights and minor changes to exhaust tips and tail lights as compared to its predecessor. After tasting a sweet success in Europe, the car made its debut in Malaysia in 2014 and ever since then has garnered an overwhelming public response throughout the country, much credit for which goes to its high power and performance, sleek design and advanced safety and infotainment features.

Interior & Features

With the elegant ergonomics and a large wheelbase, the cabin of Volvo XC60 will definitely impress you. The sophisticated electrically heated seats have been provided with side cushions and paddings which enhances the comfort level. The leather wrapped steering wheel, the wooden gear level knob and the exquisite décor inlays adds to the elegance inside. The car has been equipped with several entertainment and infotainment features, the most notable of them being the advanced 7 inch display system which serves as an interface for audio, communication and navigation controls. Several of storage compartments have been ideally positioned and the boot space of the cars measures 523 litres which can further be enhanced with the 40/20/40 rear seat split arrangement.

Exterior

Volvo XC60 has kept alive the basic tradition of the Swedish company and has provided the car with aristocratic exterior body. The dynamic headlights, the futuristic front and the round chrome finished tail pipes are alluring. The aerodynamic side profile in harmonics with the sporty rear gives the car a touch of sophistication. The broad front grille accompanied by the elegant LED headlights is a masterstroke. The car comes equipped with alloy wheels measuring 17 inch, 18 inch, 19 inch and 20 inch. The dimensions of the car are 4644 mm x 1891 mm x 1713 mm(L x W x H) and the wheelbase of the car measures 2774 mm which makes the car quite spacious inside.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

Volvo XC60 is powered by 4 cylinder 2.0 litre T5 and T6 petrol engines. The T5 engine can churn out a maximum power of 245 bhp at 5500 rpm alongwith a peak torque of 350 Nm at 1500-4800 rpm. Move up to the advanced T6 engine and you will get a maximum power of 306 hp at 5700 rpm alongwith a peak torque of 400 Nm at 2100-4500 rpm and you can attain 0-100 km/hr in mere 6.9 seconds. The advanced direct fuel injection system works in harmonics with the trademark Volvo turbocharger to deliver high power as well as superior fuel economy. The T5 engine offers a mileage of 14.9 kmpl as opposed to 13.7 kmpl offered by T6 engine.

Braking & Safety

The car has been equipped with the Start & Stop technology automatically shuts the engine off during small stops and can restart in microseconds which automatically results in a superior fuel economy. The car has been equipped with the advanced Haldex all wheel drive system that constantly monitors the speed of the car, engine torque, throttle and brakes. The Swedish automakers have been very vigilant about the safety of the passengers and have equipped the car with various safety features like dual stage airbags for driver and passengers, Anti-submarining protection, Side Impact Protection System and Whiplash Protection System which ensure maximum safety of the riders. The advanced Intelligent Driver Infotainment system has been embedded which immediately alarms the driver in case of intense steering, braking or acceleration.

Verdict:

The car is a perfect example of a machine incorporated with advanced handling and safety features, lavish interiors and a powerful engine. However its rivals, BMW X3 and Audi Q5 are worth comparing.