Volvo's Best-Selling Model

The Volvo XC60 is the marque's entry into the currently popular "crossover" market. As seen in existing models like the Nissan Skyline Crossover and BMW X6, these vehicles combine the tough, all-wheel-drive SUV feel with a compact cabin reminiscent of a coupe. They are gaining popularity as sporty urban passenger cars. Indeed, the XC60 is reportedly Volvo's best-selling model in Europe and North America.

The XC60 features a 3-liter inline-six engine producing 285 horsepower, paired with a turbocharger and an electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. Visually, in addition to its overall flowing silhouette, it asserts its individuality with a front grille emphasized by chrome trim and a boldly chamfered front bumper.

We understand Volvo Car Japan's description of it as a "sporty model that overturns previous perceptions." However, the design team at Volvo's Swedish headquarters states, "While previous Volvos were recognizable from 100 meters away, the XC60 possesses an overwhelming presence that makes it identifiable as a Volvo even from 200 meters."

From a design perspective, a key characteristic of the XC60 is how the body's waistline divides the overall image into two. The lower half conveys a robust impression, reminiscent of the cross-country (so-called SUV) capability of the XC90, which was released earlier. The upper half, symbolized by the gently curved side window graphic, exudes elegance. By narrowing the vertical width at the rear, it achieves a sporty image akin to a coupe that prioritizes the front seats. This is the essence of a "crossover," combining features of two vehicle types.

Volvo's Signature Safety Features

With a total length of 4625mm, the XC60 is relatively compact for an SUV. Compared to the XC70, which has carved out its own market since its earlier release, the XC60 is 40mm shorter in wheelbase and 215mm shorter in overall length. However, the front and rear tracks have been widened (with the same overall width), and the vehicle height is naturally 110mm greater. The efficient use of space, a hallmark of Volvo models, is evident here; it can reportedly accommodate four golf bags.

The interior design concept centers around the driver, as the design team describes it as "inspired by the cockpit of a private jet." A notable innovation is the asymmetrical design of the floating center stack, a recent Volvo characteristic, now oriented towards the driver. This enhances the usability of controls such as the air conditioning.

Another highlight is the seating. The deep bucket seats, with their sculpted cushions, are sure to pique the interest of car enthusiasts. Opting for a two-tone color scheme offers a uniquely appealing aesthetic. The driver's seat in a car is not merely a place of work but also a relaxing space akin to a living room, and the benefits of Volvo's design philosophy are fully realized in the XC60. This soft ambiance is something not found in German cars, perhaps explaining its popularity among women.

A major feature of the XC60 is its innovative safety system, "City Safety." Defined as a low-speed collision avoidance and mitigation system, this technology uses laser sensors to allow the computer to automatically prevent rear-end collisions with the vehicle ahead. Volvo explains the system's development background by stating, "75 percent of collisions occur at speeds up to 30 km/h, and the driver does not apply the brakes at all until the moment of impact."

City Safety operates at speeds below 30 km/h. At speeds below 15 km/h, it completely avoids a collision. Between 15 and 30 km/h, it reduces the damage of a rear-end collision. This world-first safety technology is standard on all XC60 models. At the test drive event, we experienced its operation at 15 km/h: just before impact, the vehicle automatically applied the brakes and came to a complete stop. The brakes were then released a few seconds later.

Volvo Car Japan Customer Relations
0120-922-662
http://www.volvocars.com/jp/