Test Drive: The New Volvo XC60 SUV | Volvo

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November 27, 2017

Test Drive: The New Volvo XC60 SUV | Volvo

Volvo XC60 | The Volvo XC60

Test Drive: The New Volvo XC60 SUV

Evolved into its second generation at the Geneva Motor Show in March, Volvo's mid-size SUV, the " XC60XC60" arrived in Japan as early as October. This new XC60, which accounts for a remarkable 30 percent of domestic sales, was test-driven by Fumio Ogawa to ascertain its level of evolution.

Photographs by ARAKAWA MasayukiText by OGAWA Fumio

A Fusion of Evolved Styling and Latest Technology

The Volvo XC60, which was the first to introduce autonomous braking with full automatic stopping, has undergone a full model change. Sales began in Japan in October 2017. It possesses a distinct character when driven. That is its most important attribute.

Volvo Cars continues to launch new models one after another. In 2017,"S90" and "V90"saw the launch of new large sedans and station wagons in Japan.

After launching the "XC40" to penetrate the compact SUV market in Milan in September, the new "XC60," announced at the Geneva Motor Show in March, was introduced to the Japanese market in October.

Sales of SUVs remain strong. "XC90While positioned below the XC90, the XC60, with its abundant features and sense of a rich lifestyle, has enjoyed strong sales since its launch.

"Sales in the Japanese market have been on a steady upward trend, making it a crucial model that accounts for 30 percent of Volvo's sales," stated a spokesperson for the importer, Volvo Cars Japan.

Expectations are therefore high for the new model. The usual approach to a model change is to retain the good aspects and boldly alter the less satisfactory ones. By that standard, the new model has succeeded.

The new XC60 retains the profile with its raked rear window. At first glance, it's unmistakably a Volvo.

Volvo succinctly describes the essence of this model change as "evolution, not revolution."

The chassis, unseen, is entirely new rather than an evolution. It is designed with electrification in mind and shares its basic platform with the XC90.

The new chassis improves packaging (making the interior more spacious) and, concurrently, enhances handling through improved front-rear weight balance and weight reduction.

Visually, the front fascia is new. The T-shaped headlights, known as "Thor's Hammer," are common to Volvo's new lineup.

A distinctive feature of the new XC60 is how the tips of these Thor's Hammer lights extend inward more than in previous models, creating a striking design that appears to pierce the grille.

The side view also gains dynamism from sculpted character lines along the lower body (likely the latest design theme, shared with models like the XC40).

The lineup includes "T8," "T6," "T5," and "D4." Initially, the "T5 AWD" (from ¥5,990,000) with a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine and the "T8 Twin Engine AWD" (¥8,840,000) hybrid, also with a 2-liter 4-cylinder, were introduced.

The powerful "T6" (¥7,240,000) with a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine and the "D4 AWD" (from ¥5,990,000) with a 2-liter 4-cylinder diesel are scheduled to be added around March 2018.

There is a rich variety of interior and exterior options. Depending on the model, the base "Momentum" is offered alongside the luxurious "Inscription" and the sporty "R-Design" trims.

Volvo XC60 | The Volvo XC60

Test Drive: The New Volvo XC60 SUV (2)

Choose a Comfortable Ride to Suit the Situation

The model I test-drove this time was the "T5 AWD Inscription." The side character lines make the body appear slimmer, and the presence of the four wheels is strikingly emphasized.

The T5 is more of a basic model. Its 2-liter gasoline engine produces a maximum output of 187 kW (254 ps) and a maximum torque of 350 Nm, paired with a full-time 4WD system.

Although it has the lowest output in the lineup, with a maximum torque of 350 Nm, it offers ample power from low RPMs.

Compared to the previous model, power is up by 7 kW, while torque remains unchanged. Even so, 350 Nm is more than sufficient. In fact, acceleration from a standstill is good.

A small turbocharger enhances practical usability. If you desire more punchy mid-range acceleration, simply press the accelerator pedal firmly.

From 4,000 rpm upwards, the power increases significantly, and the straight-line acceleration is quite exhilarating. Despite its dimensions of 4,690 mm in length and 1,660 mm in height, the vehicle doesn't feel heavy.

In fact, driving it more assertively suits this car. The suspension responds capably. It's not a car that can only be driven sedately.

The T5 can be equipped with optional electronically controlled air suspension. It becomes soft in Comfort mode and firm in Dynamic mode.

Models like the V90 exhibit more distinct character settings, whereas the XC60's character transitions are more subtle.

In Off-road mode, the steering response becomes slightly vague, while the vehicle height increases by 40 mm (compared to Comfort mode).

In Dynamic mode, steering response is heightened, and the vehicle height is lowered by 20 mm. There are five modes in total.

Another aspect of the XC60 T5 AWD that impressed me was its flat ride. It feels solid, with no shaking of the scuttle, and occupants are not tossed about.

This setup is excellent. It provides stability and successfully conveys a sense of luxury befitting the car's price.

Even the basic metal spring suspension is by no means inadequate. The soft-feeling setup would be particularly appealing to those prioritizing comfort.

Volvo XC60 | The Volvo XC60

Test Drive: The New Volvo XC60 SUV (3)

Rich Interior and Safety Features

Another attraction is the interior. Volvo truly excels here. What immediately catches the eye is the tablet-style center stack display, first introduced in the XC90 and now a hallmark of Volvo vehicles.

It's touch-operated (usable even with gloves on, a nod to its Scandinavian origins) and controls infotainment and vehicle settings.

The design, which supports this 9-inch display with a curved dashboard, is unique to the XC60 among Volvo cars.

The slim seats have a three-dimensional design and look appealing. Furthermore, I felt no fatigue even after driving for over 300 kilometers.

The front seats incorporate a "run-off road protection" system designed to prevent spinal injuries in the event of leaving the road. This is an unseen feature.

The previous model, introduced in 2009, was the first to feature autonomous braking with full automatic stopping capability, predating Subaru's EyeSight technology.

The new XC60 is also equipped with a wealth of features, including collision avoidance and mitigation full auto braking, intersection support with oncoming vehicle detection for right and left turns, and pedestrian and oncoming vehicle detection (even at night).

The new model also includes steering support. This system activates when the vehicle determines that braking alone is insufficient to avoid a collision with other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, or animals.

It provides collision avoidance support when unintentionally drifting into the oncoming lane while there is an oncoming vehicle. It also activates during lane changes when a vehicle is in the blind spot.

As mentioned earlier, the XC60 offers a rich variety of engine options and numerous optional equipment. The ability to carefully consider which model best suits one's preferences is also a key attraction.