• 2013 Volvo XC60

• 2012 Volvo XC60
• Used Volvo XC60
• Repairs Volvo XC60

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Volvo XC60 U.S. News Best Cars 8.4
Critics' Rating:	8.9
Performance:	8.4
Interior:	8.3
Safety:	9.8
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Notable for 2013

• Sport mode added to T6 models

Pros & Cons

• Comfortable, high-quality cabin
• Lots of cargo space
• Many available safety features

• Underpowered base engine
• Confusing interior controls

Research Other Years

• 2012 Volvo XC60
• 2011 Volvo XC60
• 2010 Volvo XC60

The 2013 Volvo XC60 ranks 3 out of 10 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 36 published reviews and test drives of the Volvo XC60, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Reviewers agree that the 2013 Volvo XC60 is a stylish, spacious family hauler, but some are disappointed that its performance isn’t sportier.

All Volvo XC60 models have a six-speed automatic transmission, and there are two engines available. According to test drivers, the base six-cylinder engine’s power is adequate, but most like the more powerful turbocharged six-cylinder engine that comes with T6 models. Base models with front-wheel drive have the highest fuel economy ratings of 19/25 mpg city/highway, and T6 models, which have standard all-wheel drive, average 17/23 mpg. T6 models are designed to be sportier than the base model, but several reviewers think these models have a harsh ride. Though it isn’t as powerful, auto reviewers say the base XC60’s engine is strong and accelerates well and that all models suffer from body roll and understeer.

Test drivers are very pleased with the five-seat 2013 Volvo XC60’s high-quality interior. The base model also has a lot of standard equipment, which includes tech items like HD Radio and Bluetooth, as well as standard safety features like class-exclusive City Safety, which helps prevent low-speed crashes. The XC60 can also be equipped with a navigation system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and many safety features such as a lane departure warning system. While the XC60 isn’t short on standard features, many reviewers are frustrated that the cabin has so many confusing buttons and knobs. The XC60 has a lot of cargo space, and test drivers think both the front and rear seats are comfortable for adults.

• "The 2013 Volvo XC60 is a well-rounded small luxury SUV that's also one of the top choices for families." -- Edmunds
• "Refined and loaded to the brim with expected and innovative safety features, Volvo's compact SUV is a good one." -- Consumer Guide (2012)
• "It looks good, drives well, has a warm, inviting interior and comes with Volvo's reputation for cutting-edge safety." -- Autoblog (2010)
• "From its stylish design and upscale cabin to its sporty performance and numerous safety features, the XC60 impresses in all the right areas. Its gas mileage, however, may be a sticking point for some." -- Cars.com (2009)

Other Luxury SUVs to Consider

If you want a powerful, fuel-efficient luxury compact SUV and are willing to spend to get it, the Audi Q5 is a good choice. Unlike the XC60, the Q5 comes standard with all-wheel drive, but still earns some of highest fuel economy ratings in the class. The Q5 also has a high-quality interior, and reviewers say its base turbocharged engine is powerful.

The Acura RDX costs about as much as the Volvo XC60, and it comes with a lot of standard features such as a rearview camera and Bluetooth, but it doesn’t offer as much standard and optional safety equipment as the XC60. The RDX’s powertrain is new for the 2013 model year, and while reviewers like the available power from the V6 engine, they don’t think the RDX is sporty. If you’re searching for a family SUV rather than a sporty one, reviewers say the RDX’s cabin is comfortable and it offers good cargo space.

Compare the XC60, Q5 and RDX »

Details: 2013 Volvo XC60

The 2013 Volvo XC60 comes in three trims: 3.2, T6 AWD and T6 AWD R-Design. The base model is well-equipped with features like Bluetooth and satellite radio, and has a standard six-cylinder engine. T6 models have more powerful turbocharged six-cylinder engines. All models can be equipped with a variety of features packages and optional features that add technology, performance and safety upgrades. The XC60 was last redesigned in 2009, so this overview uses research and reviews from the 2009 to 2013 model years.

See the full 2013 Volvo XC60 specs »