Test Drive: Volvo's New SUV, the XC60 | Volvo

Volvo XC60 | The Volvo XC60

Test Drive: Volvo's New SUV, the XC60

Announced at this year's Geneva Motor Show in March, the Volvo XC60 is Volvo's latest SUV model. Hirohisa Kaneko test-drove the second-generation XC60, which adopts Volvo's new design language from the XC90, in Barcelona, Spain.

Text by KANEKO Hirohisa

An Addictive, Gentle Ride

I drove Volvo's newly redesigned SUV,XC60in the vicinity of Barcelona, Spain.

The XC60 differs in side profile from its elder sibling, theXC90"XC90," announced last year. While the XC90 offers three rows of seating for seven passengers, the XC60 has a conventional two-row layout for five passengers and is slightly smaller in size.

However, the front and rear profiles share common design elements with recent Volvo models, including the XC90. It successfully cultivates a unique identity distinct from German or Japanese cars.

Upon starting, the first thing that struck me was the quiet and smooth ride. On highways and other straight stretches, it maintained a flat posture for effortless cruising. When venturing onto local roads or mountain passes, it navigated curves with a gentle lean, significantly enhancing the sense of luxury.

The sensation of cornering with a soft, yielding motion is also unique and addictive. For long-term ownership, this gentle touch would likely be welcoming, offering comfort to both driver and passengers.

The test car was equipped with the optional air suspension, which likely contributed significantly to this experience. It's certainly worth serious consideration when purchasing.

Volvo XC60 | The Volvo XC60

Test Drive: Volvo's New SUV, the XC60 (Part 2)

Effortless Power Performance

This doesn't mean it's slow. In Barcelona, I drove both the "T6" gasoline and "D5" diesel variants, each powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine. Both offered ample power to lead the flow of traffic, leaving no room for dissatisfaction. Notably, the "D5" features a new "Air Pulse" system to improve low-end response, and its effectiveness was clearly evident.

The 8-speed automatic transmission paired with both engines is intelligent, shifting smoothly according to the situation. If needed, manual shifting via the paddles behind the steering wheel is also an option. Combined, these factors ensured no lack of acceleration.

Rear seat space, quietness, and overall comfort are also excellent. The trunk capacity is generous, and thoughtful storage solutions are integrated throughout the cabin.

The primary focus of this full model change for the XC60 seems to be less on its power performance and more on enhanced intelligence, particularly evident in its advanced driver-assistance systems.

The new XC60 updates the driver-assistance technology found in the previous XC60 and XC90 by one level, primarily by integrating steering assistance with existing driver-assistance features.

For example, "BLIS with Steering Assist." Previously, BLIS, indicated by a light in the side mirror, warned the driver of approaching vehicles or motorcycles. Now, combined with steering assist, the car actively helps to avoid collisions. While the visual warning of BLIS was already effective in alerting the driver, the XC60 further evolves this capability.

Similarly, to prevent collisions with oncoming vehicles drifting out of their lane, the system now goes beyond auditory and visual warnings by actively assisting with steering input to mitigate potential accidents and their severity.

Volvo's long-standing commitment to pioneering and actively bringing such advanced safety technologies and devices to users is something I deeply resonate with.

Volvo XC60 | The Volvo XC60

Test Drive: Volvo's New SUV, the XC60 (Part 3)

Enhanced Connectivity

The advanced connectivity is another strength and appeal of recent Volvo models. The benefits for users of internet connectivity in a car have been carefully considered and implemented for ease of use.

With its own SIM card and account, the XC60 can access the internet directly. Alternatively, it can connect via tethering from a smartphone using apps like CarPlay or Android Auto.

This eliminates the need to forgo constant internet access, which is integral to daily life with smartphones and tablets. Furthermore, the accuracy of the voice control, crucial for Japanese language interaction, has also improved, enhancing usability.

The XC60 has been crafted into a highly appealing SUV. I eagerly await its Japanese market launch.

Indeed, whether it's the XC90, the XC60, or the V90 and S90 recently launched in Japan, all of Volvo's latest models offer content and refinement that confidently lead their respective categories.

This impression stems from Volvo's deep understanding of the importance of intelligence, a key factor in the future development of automobiles, and its continuous introduction of driver-assistance and connectivity features into its products. Beyond the inherent quality of the products themselves, I find their forward-thinking product planning and philosophy truly commendable.