Volvo XC60 SUV review

Few brands have enjoyed such a renaissance as Volvo. Its cars retain an enviable reputation for safety, but have adopted an upmarket edge that puts the company alongside the likes of Audi, Jaguar and Land Rover. The Volvo XC60 is an excellent example of this transformation, featuring a stunning design, a premium interior and class-leading technology.

The XC60 competes with mid-size SUV rivals including the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLC. Volvo has managed to distil the best elements of the larger XC90 into its smaller model too, in a (slightly) more affordable package and it has gone on to become the brand's most popular model.

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Both models have plenty in common, from the distinctive ‘Thor’s Hammer’ LED headlight strip to those huge rear lights. A refresh for 2021 tweaked the design of the XC60's nose, making it slightly sharper and more aggressive but the main change was the introduction of Android Automotive software for the infotainment system, ushering in features powered by Google apps. This makes Volvo's setup one of the best to use.

Volvo’s strategy of using the same engines across all its models means the XC60 shares more than just its big brother’s good looks. It boasts a range of petrol, diesel and electrified engines, all 2.0-litres in size, powering all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

All versions of the XC60 are four-wheel drive, and the only diesel option remaining is the four-wheel-drive B4, which features mild-hybrid assistance that helps it to return a great blend of performance and economy. Thanks to its 195bhp, it’ll accelerate from 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds but it also manages fuel economy of up to 44.8mpg.

The only regular petrol engine in the line-up is the B5 mild-hybrid, which boasts 247bhp and offers 38.1mpg and 0-62mph in 7.0 seconds. As part of a range update in 2021, the range-topping B6 petrol was discontinued. This engine was the fastest of the XC60 range, managing 0-62mph in 6.2 seconds.

If low running costs are a high priority, Volvo offers two XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid models which we've reviewed separately.

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On the road, the Volvo XC60 is comfortable, smooth and quiet. Even in Plus trim with 19-inch wheels, it still feels softer than German rivals and is even more relaxed with optional adaptive suspension fitted. Even then, it’s not quite as comfortable as the Mercedes GLC or as sporty as the Jaguar F-Pace, but it occupies a desirable middle ground.

Inside, despite the XC60’s sleek outline, Volvo hasn’t sacrificed practicality and there’s enough room for five people. Knee, shoulder and headroom are all plentiful in the front and back, but as in most rivals, the middle rear seat is too firm for long trips, so is best used only in a pinch. The boot will take 505 litres of luggage – more than the Lexus NX and Porsche Macan, but 145 litres fewer than the F-Pace.

Trim levels are Core, Plus, and Ultimate, and the latter two are available with additional theme styling packs called Dark and Bright. With the former adding gloss black detailing to the exterior, which is replaced by chrome trim pieces in the latter.

Even the Core trim XC60 is very well equipped, with highlights including the nine-inch portrait infotainment, now running Android-based software, DAB radio, Bluetooth, sat-nav, 18-inch alloy wheels, a powered tailgate and keyless entry. The mid-range Plus model gets a bolstered list of standard equipment including 19-inch alloys, four-zone climate control, a 360-degree surround camera, a heated steering wheel and Volvo’s Driver Assistance safety suite.

Ultimate trim is the most luxurious of the range, with exterior and interior styling upgrades such as larger wheels, dual exhaust pipes and Nappa leather upholstery, sports seats and a black interior headlining. It offers a far more upmarket atmosphere inside than the old XC60, while its crystal gear lever helps set it apart from rivals.

The Volvo XC60 finished 30th out of the 75 cars ranked in our 2020 Driver Power owner satisfaction survey, ahead of rivals including the Lexus NX and Audi Q5. The model wasn’t ranked in 2021 but the smaller XC40 did even better with an eighth place overall.

As has come to be expected of a Volvo, a long list of safety equipment is fitted as standard and a convincing five-star Euro NCAP crash-test score is the result. In fact, the car’s 98% score for adult occupant protection is class-leading. The facelift ushered in new tech to help prevent collisions while reversing.

All in all, the XC60 stacks up very well as a capable and safe family SUV of the highest quality. It’s not a ‘driver’s car’, but it’s very comfortable to travel in and reasonably affordable to run.

How about a used or nearly new Volvo XC60 Mk2?

An extremely stylish mid-size SUV with a plush, comfortable, well-appointed and solidly constructed cabin, the Volvo XC60 Mk2 is a relaxing and pleasant car to drive. It has a good range of petrol and diesel engines, as well as several mild hybrid petrol and diesel options, and a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid: the diesels offer excellent real-world fuel economy and are the versions you are most likely to find on secondhand car forecourts.

What’s its history?

The XC60 Mk2 was launched in the middle of 2017 and was available in both front- and four-wheel-drive forms. It started life with a selection of turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines, a petrol engine with a turbocharger and supercharger, and a range-topping petrol-electric plug-in hybrid. In 2018 the conventional petrol and diesels were superseded by mild hybrid petrols and diesels, before the range underwent a substantial overhaul in June 2021.

Read our full Volvo XC60 Mk2 used review...

Used XC60 Mk1 (2008-2017)

Volvo’s first attempt at a mid-sized premium SUV was an instant success and proved to be a confident rival to the established players from BMW, Audi and Mercedes. Its popularity and long life means that there are plenty to choose from on the secondhand market, where you’ll find some very keen prices.

Read our full Volvo XC60 Mk1 used review...