It does not matter which engine you go with in the 2013 Volvo XC60 Crossover SUV, you will likely be pretty pleased. The standard 3.2-liter inline-6 offers 240 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and although front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available. Fuel economy is average, returning 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The T6 model boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 that delivers 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Zero to 60 mph is achieved in 7 seconds, with average fuel economy being around 20 mpg. For even more power, the T6 R-Design model gets the same engine, but it is tweaked a little to produce 325 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Acceleration speed drops to 6.2 seconds, and towing capacity is 3,300 pounds. Volvo XC60 offers one of the most comfortable rides in its class. It is a little soft around corners, but it is unbelievably composed on the highway. Also, the turning circle is only 38.4 feet, so parking and maneuvering in tight spaces will be easier than you think.
• Navigation - The optional voice-controlled navigation system gives you maps and turn-by-turn directions. This system also detects traffic disruptions and will make adjustments accordingly.
• Audio - The standard audio eight-speaker audio system is pretty impressive. It includes a CD player, amplifier, USB port, steering wheel integrated controls and Bluetooth hands-free technology. There is also a premium sound system available with 650 watts, 12 speakers, subwoofer and tweeters.
• Volvo Sensus Driver Control Interface - This intuitive interface displays all essential driver information on a 5-inch high-resolution screen. Just a few things it offers includes lane departure warning, collision warning, pedestrian detection, driver alert control and road sign information.
The XC60 was definitely built with safety in mind. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it a “Good” rating in front, side and roof-strength crash tests. Also, when braking was tested, it was able to stop from 60 mph in only 119 feet. City Safety is standard on every XC60, which helps to avoid low-impact collisions by applying the brakes when the system senses they are needed. There are plenty of optional safety features you may want to add on too, including lane departure, driver attention monitor, blind spot warning, integrated child booster seats and a heartbeat monitor, capable of detecting if an invader is in the vehicle. Standard safety features include:
• Whiplash protection system
• Stability control
• Rear door safety locks
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Engine immobilizer
• Self-leveling headlights
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Emergency braking preparation
• Traction control
• Turn signal mirrors
Volvo has never really been known to create flashy vehicles, but the XC60 is certainly attractive in a more subtle way. Its aerodynamic styling, handsome five-spoke wheels and body colored bumpers, handles and mirrors do just fine without a lot of added chrome that you find on other vehicles.
The five-passenger cabin of the XC60 is by far one of the most attractive ones designed by Volvo to date. Two-tone upholstery gives it a modern flair, which is complemented nicely by metallic trim on the center stack. Controls are all simple and intuitive, but the navigation system is a bit of a disappointment. As for seat quality, there is more than enough legroom in both rows for taller passengers to get comfortable. Plus, the 40/20/40 split rear seat is able to be folded a few different ways for hauling long cargo and passengers simultaneously.
With 67.4 cubic feet behind the rear seat, XC60 offers more than others in its class. Even with the rear seat in place, you enjoy 30.8 cubes, which is generous.