• 2013

• 2012 Volvo XC60

• Used Volvo XC60
• Repairs Volvo XC60

Scorecard

Overall:	2012 Volvo XC60 U.S. News Best Cars 8.6
Critics' Rating:	9.1
Performance:	8.5
Interior:	8.2
Safety:	9.8
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Pros & Cons

• Comfortable, high-quality cabin
• Lots of cargo space
• Cutting-edge safety features

• Base engine is underpowered
• Confusing navigation system
• Turbocharged engine has poor fuel economy for the class

Research Other Years

• 2013 Volvo XC60
• 2011 Volvo XC60
• 2010 Volvo XC60

Test drivers say the 2012 Volvo XC60 is a stylish family hauler that doesn’t sacrifice function for fashion. 

When selecting a family vehicle, safety is a priority. In that case, the 2012 Volvo XC60 is a safety-conscience person's dream car. It comes standard with a host of safety features like Volvo City Safety, which can prevent about 25 percent of low-speed crashes according to the IIHS. It also receives a five-star overall rating, the highest possible, from the federal government. The XC60 even has an optional integrated child booster seat, which is a great feature for parents with small children or car pool duty.

In exchange for one of the safest luxury compact SUVs on the market, drivers will make a few compromises. Reviewers say the base engine is good for most situations, but they prefer the optional turbocharged engine, even though it doesn’t compare with the BMW X3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLK. Another downside is the 2012 XC60’s confusing interior controls on models with the optional navigation system. However, if you decide not to select navigation, test drivers predict shoppers will be pleased with the fit and finish of this compact SUV, and say it’s stylish both inside and out.

Other Luxury SUVs to Consider

If you need a powerful, fuel-efficient compact SUV, and are willing to spend to get it, the Audi Q5 is a good choice. Unlike the 2012 XC60, the Q5 comes standard with all-wheel drive, but still manages to earn the highest fuel economy ratings in the class. It also has a higher-quality interior, a navigation system that’s easier to use and a base four-cylinder engine that reviewers prefer over the X60’s standard inline six-cylinder engine.

The Cadillac SRX is another eye-catching SUV, and this year, reviewers say it has the performance to match thanks to its standard V6 engine. Inside, reviewers also say the SRX is one of the most luxurious models in the class, but unlike the 2012 XC60, you must upgrade to higher trims to get things like navigation and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system. The XC60 has more features on the base model, which means you’ll spend less to customize it compared with the SRX.

Details: Volvo XC60

The Volvo XC60 comes in three trims: 3.2, T6 AWD and T6 R-Design. The base model is well-equipped with features like Bluetooth and satellite radio.

Because XC60 hasn’t changed much, this review uses test drives from earlier models.

• "While we'd likely take the BMW for its more sorted suspension, there's no denying how right the Volvo design team got the XC60 R-Design inside and out. Give us a little more power, a set of adjusted dampers and a reworked starting sequence and we'd be whistling Du Gamla, Du Fria all the way home." -- Autoblog
• "This model may have sacrificed a little - just a little - of its all-season capability in the name of on-road performance, but it is a compromise that's worth it." -- Motor Trend