2012 Volvo XC60 Review  

Overview

The new 2012 Volvo XC60 is Volvo's bold, sporty and muscular challenger in the Small Premium Utility segment. It is a real crossover and a blend of the traditional city vehicle and a cross country vehicle aimed at young, professional urban people with an active lifestyle. The Volvo XC60 is a sporty and dynamic car with tasteful exterior and interior design and versatile functionality. In its segment, it is in the ring with Acura RDX and the Land Rover LR2.

Power and performance

The XC60 is powered by a 3.2-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder in the T6. Mechanical features include a 3.2-liter inline-six cylinder engine good for 240 hp and 236 pounds-feet of torque (XC60 3.2); low-emissions version sold in some states makes 230 hp and 221 pounds-feet. The turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder churns out 300 hp and 325 pounds-feet of torque (XC60 T6). A six-speed automatic transmission is standard on both engines. The 3.2 offers front- or all-wheel drive while the T6 comes with all-wheel drive only.

Body and styling

Silver side decor, silver roof rails and aluminum decor steering wheel added to Premium Package, cargo cover, compass in rear view mirror and power folding rear head restraints added to Convenience Package and the new Flamenco Red and Seashell Metallic colors are the key features of the XC60 3.2. The new XC60 3.2 R-Design models include 20-inch "Cratus" alloy wheels, front aluminum trim accents, embossed R-Design sport seats, full body color coordination, R-Design aluminum inlays, R-Design grille, R-Design split upholstery, side scuff plates and rear skid plate and smooth leather seating surfaces with contrasting inlay. The XC60 T6 AWD is equipped with 18-inch "Zephyrus" alloy wheels, standard aluminum decor steering wheel, standard silver side decor, standard laminated panoramic roof with two laminated glass panels and power sunshade and standard silver roof rails. The XC60 T6 R-Design adds cargo cover and power folding rear head restraints to Convenience Package.

Safety Features

The 2011 Volvo XC60 has class-leading safety features. City Safety, by which it can stop itself; DSTC anti-skid system; rear fog light with auto-off; front fog lights; roll stability control; side marker lights; anti-locking brake system with hydraulic brake assist and ready alert brakes; intelligent driver information system; daytime running lights; roll-over protection system; seatbelts with pre-tensioners; anti-submarining protection; energy-absorbing interior; dual-stage airbags for driver and front passenger; side impact protection system; energy-absorbing frontal structure; child safety equipment; centrally operated child safety lock; and ISOFIX/Latch Attachment System are some of its active and passive safety features.

*Based on 2012 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008 .Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.