2018 Volvo XC60 Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

byJonathan ElfalanDirector, Vehicle Testing

　　Jonathan Elfalan has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. As a director of vehicle testing at zzdcar, Jonathan has tested and reviewed thousands of cars and written thousands of car-related articles over the course of his career. Jonathan got his start testing cars for Road & Track magazine as a newly minted mechanical engineer grad from University of California, Irvine, and has also contributed to Motor Trend and the Associated Press. He likes to say he learned to drive a manual transmission in a rear-wheel-drive mid-engine vehicle but often omits it was his family's 1991 Toyota Previa minivan.

　　

What's new

The 2018 Volvo XC60 is fully redesignedRepresents the second XC60 generation introduced this year

　　Volvo debuted its small luxury crossover, the XC60, back for the 2010 model year. Over the years, we've given it high marks for its powerful engines, roomy cargo area and strong safety scores. For 2018, Volvo's got a fully redesigned XC60 on offer. Much of the model's core appeal remains, but this year's model is more stylish, has a bit more room for rear passengers and has new engine options.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$191/mo  for XC60 T5 Momentum

　　XC60 T5 Momentum

　　T5 Momentum 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (Most Popular) - $41,500 MSRPT5 R-Design 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $44,800 MSRPT6 Momentum 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger 8A) - $44,900 MSRPT5 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $45,300 MSRPT6 R-Design 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger 8A) - $48,200 MSRPT6 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger 8A) - $48,700 MSRPT8 Momentum Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) - $52,900 MSRPT8 R-Design Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) - $56,200 MSRPT8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) - $56,700 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　The 2018 Volvo XC60 is essentially a scaled-down version of the larger three-row XC90. And because of the similarities between both structures, the smaller, lighter XC60 can actually use all of the same powertrains from the XC90 model line. The XC60 T5 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, but we like the 316-horsepower output of the midlevel T6. It's the best match for the XC60, and it gives up only 1 mpg on average to the T5.

　　All-new for 2018 is the T8 plug-in hybrid. It uses the T6's engine to drive the front wheels and an electric motor to drive the rears. It delivers a big jump in power (400 hp) with only a small benefit in fuel economy. It's also considerably more expensive. Since the XC60's best strengths are in areas other than soul-stirring performance, we don't see much appeal in the T8.

　　No matter which powertrain you pick, though, you'll appreciate that Volvo has upped the luxury factor in the XC60, especially when it comes to interiors and amenities. It matches what you'll find inside an Audi or Mercedes-Benz, but with a distinctly Swedish style. We are most impressed by the top Inscription trim, which benefits from exquisitely formed wood inlays and a leather-wrapped dashboard. The sport-focused R-Design comes exclusively with paddle shifters and sport seats, and it sits in between the Inscription and base trim, which Volvo now calls Momentum in lieu of Dynamic.

　　Although the XC60 hasn't quite developed the dynamic chops to run toe to toe with the sportier variants in segment, there's no doubt Volvo will attract new fans with this XC60 generation.

　　Notably, we picked the Volvo XC60 T8 as one of zzdcar' Best Hybrid Cars and as one of the Best Hybrid Cars for 2018.

　　

zzdcar' Expert Rating

8.0 / 10

　　The XC60 is a compact luxury SUV and Volvo's most popular model. For 2018, it steps everything up a few notches with an elegant new design, more power, less weight, a plug-in hybrid option and highly attractive amenities. We'd consider the XC60 a top pick in the segment for the luxury-conscious buyer.

　　

Trim tested

　　Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our First Drive of the 2018 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD (turbo- and supercharged 2.0L inline-4 | 8-speed automatic | AWD).

　　

Scorecard

Overall	8.0 / 10
Driving	7.5
Comfort	8.0
Interior	8.0
Utility	8.5
Technology	8.5

　　

Driving

7.5

　　The T6 trim achieves the best balance of power and dynamics of all the available XC60 models. No one should be disappointed with the amount of power on tap, and the brakes deliver smooth yet responsive stopping performance. It's not the sportiest in the segment, but it's a solid midpack contender.

　　

Acceleration

7.5

　　The twin-charged four-cylinder provides sufficient thrust, even if it isn't quite as fast as Volvo claims. We reached 60 mph in just 6.1 seconds, which is comparable to times from the competition's turbo four-cylinders. Nobody is going to have issues with the power on tap to get up to speed.

　　

Braking

8.0

　　The brakes are nice and easy to modulate with linear pedal feel and the perfect amount of initial bite. Under heavy braking, they are stable and consistent and are able to stop the XC60 in 114 feet, which matches results from the segment leaders equipped with all-season tires.

　　

Steering

6.5

　　The steering feels a little sensitive at highway speeds, which requires micro-corrections from the driver. But it's also more lively at lower speeds and as precise as you'll ever need. With today's technology, Volvo should be able to tune the steering for all instances, and it falls a bit short.

　　

Handling

7.0

　　In Comfort mode, the XC60 returns a lot of body movement over bumpy pavement and through turns. In Dynamic, the car feels more buttoned-down, though the large panoramic sunroof makes it feel a little top-heavy. The optional air suspension is far from clumsy, but some competitors are superior.

　　

Drivability

7.5

　　The engine can surge a little at times while at partial throttle, likely when there's engine boost being generated two ways. The transmission for the most part is very responsive, and only on a couple of occasions it took more time than expected to downshift and accelerate.

　　

Off-road

7.5

　　The XC60 has an off-road mode, which raises the suspension almost 2 inches when equipped with the optional air suspension. Still, with the extra ground clearance, the XC60 isn't meant for hardcore off-road duty but should handle inclement weather without issue.

　　

Comfort

8.0

　　Seating comfort is a strong point of the XC60 thanks largely to highly adjustable and massaging seats and soft-padded surfaces. The four-zone climate control is also a rather luxurious feature on this Inscription model, though Volvo hasn't quite optimized the air suspension for ride comfort.

　　

Seat comfort

9.0

　　The XC60 has excellent seats, and it is currently the only one in its class to offer an optional massage function. The cushions have the right amount of firmness and front heat and ventilation, and functions work well. Adjustments are wide-ranging so it helps to have a touchscreen menu for guidance.

　　

Ride comfort

6.5

　　Even in its softest suspension setting, the optional air suspension isn't very effective at filtering out high-frequency road vibrations. The ride isn't harsh, but we'd call it a little busy for a luxury crossover. The large 20-inch wheels that come with the Inscription trim could be partly to blame.

　　

Noise & vibration

7.5

　　Some road and wind noise permeates the cabin, but not to a distracting degree. At low speeds the supercharger whine becomes audible. Not exactly a refined luxury sound, but it isn't off-putting either. There are quieter cabins, such as the Mercedes GLC's, but overall the XC60 is quieter than many.

　　

Climate control

8.0

　　The climate control is very effective at keeping cabin temps pleasant. Adjusting temps and fan speed for front and rear zones is straightforward and elegant. Our one gripe is the system is slow to load on startup, and you have to cycle through all seat heating/cooling settings to turn them off.

　　

Interior

8.0

　　With rotary dial controls the new norm, we're surprised Volvo was able to make the touchscreen work as well as it does. The cabin is pretty spacious, with the exception of a panoramic sunroof eating up a little headroom. Still, Volvo went above expectations with regard to visibility.

　　

Ease of use

8.0

　　The infotainment is intuitive and user-friendly, responding to swipe and pinch gestures like those for a smartphone, with response times that are good. The gauge cluster controls are a little less straightforward but ultimately easy to use. Function follows form.

　　

Getting in/getting out

6.0

　　The doors open fairly wide, but the step-over could prove a little high for short or elderly individuals. The front windshield is raked back a fair amount, so head clearance is somewhat sacrificed and taller folks might have issues. The rear door openings are squared-off and don't pose these issues.

　　

Driving position

8.0

　　With a ton of seat adjustability and a good amount of range in the adjustable steering column, there are few drivers who won't be able to find a good driving position. We could use a little more tilt functionality for the bottom cushion, but that's nearly a nonissue.

　　

Roominess

7.5

　　The front seats have a fair amount of legroom and seat width, but the panoramic sunroof that's standard on all models eats up some headroom. Backseat accommodations are quite good across the board, and even middle seat comfort isn't too compromised, so it should work for three average-size adults.

　　

Visibility

9.0

　　Volvo did its homework. The front pillars are narrow in the right plane, with a space between the sideview mirror so that critical 45-degree view isn't obstructed. The generous window space in the back, the power-folding rear headrests and the optional 360-degree cameras make life easy.

　　

Quality

8.5

　　Volvo really elevated its build quality with this XC60 generation. It's not quite up to Mercedes level, but it's definitely a step above BMW and Jaguar. The interior materials feel of quality, and there's real craftsmanship to some pieces, specifically the wood trim in this Inscription model.

　　

Utility

8.5

　　Utility is another strong area for the XC60, thanks to a generous cargo area and smart configuration options. If you have the optional air suspension, you can impress your friends by lowering the car from the tailgate area.

　　

Small-item storage

8.0

　　In-cabin stowage is decent for a luxury vehicle. The felt, rubber-lined door pockets keep loose items from causing noise and will hold a larger water bottle. A modest center armrest bin with two USB ports is good for phones. Rear storage is limited to a small door pocket and a shallow armrest bin.

　　

Cargo space

8.5

　　At 29.7 cubic feet with the rear seats up, volume is generous for the segment, and an innovative cargo cover can either slide up or retract completely. The air suspension allows you to lower the rear-end height for easier loading; there's both a ski pass-through and 60/40-split folding seatbacks.

　　

Child safety seat accommodation

8.5

　　The LATCH anchors are located under easy-access flip covers and in the usual places on the outboard seats with two top tethers on the back. You can mount only two child seats, but there should be enough space for rear-facing child seats.

　　

Technology

8.5

　　Volvo backs up its new modern styling with a ton of well-executed technology. It may not be innovating as boldly as the German manufacturers, but the features and driving aids available in the XC60 are, for the most part, very useful.

　　

Audio & navigation

9.0

　　The Bowers & Wilkins audio system is one of the most advanced and configurable offerings we've come across. Sleek yellow speaker cones peeking out behind decorative metal grilles is a nice aesthetic pairing with the rich sound and deep bass. The nav system's modern graphics are almost as nice.

　　

Smartphone integration

9.0

　　Device integration is excellent. You can pair your phone while on the move and choose between Apple CarPlay and Android Auto or use Volvo's native Bluetooth interface, which also works well. We appreciate the fact that CarPlay and Auto don't occupy the entire infotainment screen, too.

　　

Driver aids

8.0

　　Of note, Pilot Assist's firm hold on lane position feels more autonomous than most systems. The forward collision warning returned a few false positives from parked cars. Otherwise, all driving aids work well and are easy to access and switch on/off at will through the touchscreen.

　　

Voice control

8.5

　　Voice control functionality is quite extensive, with all the usual functions related to phone calls and navigation. But you can also control the climate control, seat heaters and ventilation, and steering wheel heat. Holding down the button summons Google Voice or Siri if your phone is connected.

　　

Which XC60 does zzdcar recommend?

　　Volvo offers a nice range of engines and trim levels for the XC60 to suit a variety of buyers. However, we believe the T6 Inscription model strikes the best balance of power versus cost and provides access to the XC60's more distinctive luxury amenities, such as four-zone climate control and massaging front seats. The Inscription model's interior also oozes elegance with its beautifully shaped wood inlays, a leather-wrapped dash and vertical bar front grille.

　　

2018 Volvo XC60 models

　　The 2018 Volvo XC60 is available in three trims, which offer varied levels of luxury and sport-focused amenities: Momentum, R-Design and Inscription. All trims can be paired with any of the available powertrains designated by T5, T6 and T8. The T5 features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (250 horsepower, 258 pound-feet of torque), and the T6 has a similar engine but with turbo- and supercharging (316 hp, 295 lb-ft). The range-topping T8 is a plug-in hybrid that combines the T6 engine with a rear electric motor (400 hp, 472 lb-ft). All models are equipped solely with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.

　　The base Momentum trim is pretty nicely equipped, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels (T6 models come standard with 19-inch wheels), LED headlights and taillights, automatic high beams, automatic wipers, integrated roof rails, and a power liftgate with programmable height.

　　Inside, there's leather upholstery, aluminum interior trim, a panoramic sunroof, automatic dual-zone climate control, an auto-dimming mirror, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, driver-seat memory settings, 60/40-split folding rear seats (with rear underseat storage), a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10-speaker audio system, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, and Bluetooth connectivity.

　　On the safety front, all XC60s are equipped with lane keeping assist, road departure mitigation and protection, oncoming collision avoidance/mitigation with bike/pedestrian/animal detection, driver attention alert, road sign recognition, and a four-year complimentary subscription to Volvo On Call with remote engine start.

　　The R-Design trim includes everything above and adds 19-inch wheels, special exterior trim, LED front foglights and cornering lights, keyless entry, a hands-free liftgate, illuminated door handles, front sport seats with manual seat bottom extensions, navigation, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, steering wheel paddles and selectable drive modes.

　　The Inscription trim includes most of the R-Design features but has different exterior and interior trim and lacks the sport seats and steering wheel paddles. Instead, you get 20-inch wheels, four-zone climate control, a leather-wrapped dash, ambient interior lighting and a cooled glovebox.

　　A number of small packages and stand-alone options are available on the base Momentum trim if you don't need or want everything offered in R-Design or Inscription trims. Features such as the digital gauge cluster, navigation system, interior ambient lighting, and keyless entry are all available.

　　The Vision package is available to all models and includes auto-dimming and folding side mirrors, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors with semiautonomous parking assist. The Convenience package adds adaptive cruise control, power-folding rear seat and headrests, heated wiper blades, power child locks for the rear doors, HomeLink, an additional 12-volt power outlet, and for Momentum models includes selectable drive mode settings, keyless entry and a hands-free tailgate. Adding the Advance package equips all models with turn-adapting LED headlights, a 360-degree parking camera system, headlight washers and a head-up display.

　　The Luxury Seat package is offered exclusively on Inscription models, and it helps elevate the XC60's amenities above the competition. Included is premium leather upholstery, upgraded front seats (heated, ventilated and massaging with power lower cushion extenders and adjustable lateral support), heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel.

　　The most significant stand-alone options include an adaptive air suspension that provides adjustments in body height and damping and a 15-speaker Bowers and Wilkins premium sound system.

　　

2018 XC60 Highlights

Type: SUVPlug-in HybridSUV

　　Trim: T5 MomentumT5 R-DesignT6 MomentumT5 InscriptionT6 R-DesignT6 InscriptionT8 Momentum Twin Engine Plug-In HybridT8 R-Design Twin Engine Plug-In HybridT8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In HybridT5 Momentum

　　

Base MSRP	$41,500
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	24 MPG
Cost to Drive	$191/month
Seating	5 seats
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles