Intro: Now in its second model year, Volvo's compact crossover, the XC60, continues to bring one word to mind...sculpted. While many of Volvo's design cues are present here, such as the corporate grille and pillared taillights, the silhouette and bodylines of this crossover represent a subtle departure from more traditional Volvo styling.
Depending on trim level, the XC60 comes standard with 17, 18 or 20 inch alloy wheels, wrapped in all season tires. Other notable exterior features include dual polished exhaust tips, XC roof rails, and available Xenon active headlights.
Performance: The base engine on the XC60 is a 3.2-liter inline-6, sending 235 horsepower through a 6-speed automatic to the front wheels or available all wheel drive. Up-rated models get a 3-liter turbocharged inline-6, sending 281 horsepower and 295 pound feet of torque through a 6-speed automatic to all wheel drive.
Fuel Economy: Here are the highest and lowest EPA estimates for fuel economy:
Features: Inside this nimble crossover, occupants are greeted with standard leather seating and interior styling unique to the Swedish automaker. Our test model was outfitted in a two-tone theme with wood grain accents. Above the 8-way power front seats is the panoramic 2-panel power sunroof with power sunshade. The second panel extends over the 40/20/40 split/fold second row bench with integrated child booster seats. With the back seats folded, there are over 67 cubic feet of cargo space.
While an 8-speaker stereo with 160-watt amp is standard, the available Multimedia package includes a Dynaudio premium sound system and DVD-Navigation system with real-time traffic updates.
Safety: Standard safety equipment includes 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, dynamic stability control, traction control, a full assortment of airbags, and Volvo's all-new city safe radar-based auto-braking system.
Pricing/Warranty: Base MSRP for the 2011 Volvo XC60 is $32,400. A range-topping all wheel drive, turbocharged R-Design model starts at $41,550. The XC60 is backed by a 4-year, 50,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Summary: With a versatile package and styling that moves Volvo design in a whole new direction, the 2011 XC60 is an exciting addition to Volvo's highly respected vehicle portfolio.