2010 Volvo XC60
- 2009 Volvo XC60
Based on analysis of 17 XC60 reviews and test drives.
Volvo XC60 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Volvo XC60 ranks 3 out of 7 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 17 published reviews and test drives of the Volvo XC60, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
As Volvo's first entry into the luxury compact SUV segment, the XC60 combines stylish looks with powerful performance. A baby brother to the XC90, it competes against the BMW X3 and shares a platform with the Land Rover LR2.
One of the XC60's major strengths is its sheer number of advanced safety systems. In its higher trim, it comes with all-wheel drive and Volvo's new City Safety system, which reduces low-speed impacts by automatically braking when it senses an impending accident and the SUV is traveling at speeds under 18 mph. "[A]t around $40,000 for a well-equipped XC60, it does appear Volvo has an attractive, well-conceived product on its hands," says Motor Trend. "With the volatile state of the economy and our current trend away from SUVs -- only time will tell whether this will be enough." The XC60 is one of three nominees for Road & Travel Magazine's 2010 International Truck of the Year award.
Due to low sales numbers in 2008, Volvo's future is uncertain. French automaker Renault has reportedly talked with Ford about a purchase of Volvo cars, and some Chinese automakers have also reportedly expressed interest. Rest assured that even if Ford sells Volvo, owners likely won't notice much of a difference. Some dealerships could close, but all warranties will still be in effect.
The XC60 comes in two trims. The 3.2 comes with a six-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, while the T6 AWD comes with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive.
- "The new crossover offers every safety feature-some standard, some optional-you can think of, plus one you probably wouldn't. However, it's also good to look at, readily identifiable as a Volvo, handsome within, reasonably agile, and capable of holding its own in the 0-to-60 department." -- Car and Driver
- "To our eyes, the XC60 has the boldly athletic styling and lavish, spacious interior needed to compete in the so-called ‘Small Premium Utility' segment." -- MSN
- "Hoping to build on its ‘safety first' image, Volvo has added measure of performance and fun to its newest vehicle, emphasizing styling, high-tech content, and all-around capability." -- Automobile Magazine
- "Sleek styling and a solid set of hardware could make this Volvo's most popular SUV yet." -- Edmunds
- "Part wagon, part SUV, part super-safe machine, the XC60 offers drivers a powerful and spacious vehicle with a ride as quiet as a forest in the winter." - Detroit News
XC60 Performance - 8.7 (Very Good)
The XC60 provides surprisingly spirited performance for a heavy SUV. "The 3-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine provides 281 horsepower to help this big crossover fly on the road like a much smaller vehicle," says the Detroit News. "Volvo included a stiff suspension to handle all of the power, but not so stiff it shakes you around like a rattle on Detroit's pothole-strewn streets. The ride was smooth and quiet, with the focus on luxury instead of sporty." However, a few reviewers say the engine could stand to use more horsepower. Read More
XC60 Exterior - 8.8 (Very Good)
The XC60 stands out from most SUVs with its especially sleek looks. "For people who associate Volvo with its old-school days -- boxy and boring, and I mean that in a good way -- the real surprise is the XC60's style," says the New York Times. "Too many crossover S.U.V.'s in this overpopulated field come off as U.F.O.'s: Unidentified Family Objects. But instead of inflicting another two-ton blob on the suburbs, Volvo has delivered a handsome standout." Read More
XC60 Interior - 8.8 (Very Good)
The 2010 Volvo XC60's cabin is both luxurious and comfortable. "From Volvo's characteristic wafer-thin center stack to the contrasting materials throughout, this is the Swedish company's best interior design yet," writes Road and Track. "We especially enjoy the optional Nordic Light Oak inlay on the driver-canted center stack -- you can see (and feel) the grain of the wood. Rear-seat head- and legroom are excellent and the center seat is even manageable for trips." Read More
XC60 Safety - NA
The Volvo XC60 has not yet been crash-tested by the federal government, but wins a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the insurance industry. Carrying on Volvo's reputation, it comes with plenty of safety features, including the innovative City Safety system. "Indeed, it wouldn't be a Volvo without a ton of safety equipment -- this is being called the safest car yet," says AutoWeek. "Volvo even went so far as to christen it ‘probably the safest car in the world.'" Read More
XC60 Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2010 Volvo XC60 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The XC60 comes with a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. Read More
