Volvo XC60

Our verdict

Another identikit Volvo in a slightly different size than before. You can tell it apart because it has even more safety kit then the others, and is slightly more annoying for it.

Comfort

Rides well, even though it struggles with the bigger potholes and there is undoubtedly a bit of wind noise. The isolation is probably thanks to great Volvo seats and a dash that feels really very well made. It’s a good size for SUV-sightlines without the usual attendant floppiness; the XC60 copes averagely well in almost all situations. Slopes around handily enough.

Performance

The XC60 patently hasn’t been conceived to be fast, so don’t expect fireworks. There are three engines on offer; a pair of 2.4 diesels with 161bhp (2.4D) and 181bhp (the D5) and a 3.0 T6 petrol with 281. The petrol is the fastest at 7.1 seconds to 62mph and 130mph. The 2.4D the slowest (10.5/121mph max). The D5 is the best compromise at 9.0 seconds to 62ph and 127mph top end. Go for the Geartronic auto – it seems to suit the car.

Cool

Is Boden cool? Is Next cool? Is Volvo cool? Well, no.

Quality

Nicely built, great Swedish design, looks a bit crap if you don’t spec it correctly. But you can’t argue with the fact that Volvo makes you feel safe.

Handling

It’s all very nice, but nothing very special. Absolutely insane amounts of safety kit make it a bit of a hassle to drive; anti-collision warning lights, BLIS, lane departure warning, City Safety. Can nip about handily enough when its wet, but the XC60 constantly feels a bit sane. Doesn’t make much of an impression, frankly.

Practicality

Great for families (the built-in booster cushion always makes you smile), and the easy-fold seats are ace. The boot is pretty big seats up (655 litres) and massive seats down (1,455 litres). What can we say? It works.

Running costs

Insurance is low (there’s talk of some insurance companies offering discounts because of the City Safety system) at 13/14/15 for the different engines. The big petrol is pretty useless at 23.7mpg (combined), which makes the diesels even more attractive at 37.7mpg each – they also clip in at under 200g/km.