More Comfortable Than Its Exterior Suggests

The Volvo XC60 was test-driven within Bandai-Asahi National Park. Driving from Koriyama City into the mountainous region via expressways like the Tohoku and Joban, a lush green landscape unfolded. On the winding mountain roads with alternating gentle inclines and declines, the XC60 proved to be more comfortable than its exterior suggested. The engine was powerful, the ride was flat, and the noise level was remarkably low. With a seating position elevated thanks to its 1715mm height, gripping the steering wheel revealed it to be an excellent tourer, promising little fatigue even on long drives. Mechanical noise from the drivetrain, common in all-wheel-drive vehicles, was barely noticeable.

The engine, equipped with an intercooled turbocharger, produces 285 horsepower at 5800 rpm. The turbo begins to engage and provide strong acceleration around 2000 rpm, after which the car delivers power seamlessly. The steering is not overly sensitive, achieving a suitably stable feel. For drivers who frequently cover longer distances, such as weekend trips to a vacation home, this level of comfort seems just right.

The transmission is a 6-speed automatic, with 5th and 6th gears set as overdrive for fuel efficiency. Shifts are smooth, skillfully utilizing the engine's torque band to propel the 1.9-ton vehicle with surprising agility. It also features Geartronic, allowing for manual upshifts and downshifts. The all-wheel-drive system, known as AWD at Volvo, is pre-charge type, where a computer quickly distributes torque to all four tires based on road conditions. While the off-road capability could not be confirmed during this test drive, it is equipped with Hill Descent Control, which is effective when descending steep slopes.

Its Advantage Over Rivals

The driver's seat offers a sense of comfortable enclosure, yet the interior feels spacious. The rear seats also provide ample legroom and headroom. An optional 'Integrated Child Cushion' for the rear seat, which can be raised in two stages for children weighing approximately 15-30kg, is available as part of a family package. Without it, the seat base is softer and more comfortable. For stylish owners who prefer not to have child seats permanently installed, the 'Integrated Child Cushion' might present a dilemma.

The XC60 is priced at 5.99 million yen. Rivals include the Lexus RX (from 4.6 million yen), which offers an all-wheel-drive system combined with a hybrid system; the Skyline Crossover (from 4.2 million yen), featuring a 3.7-liter V6 and available AWD; the Audi Q5 (5.69 million yen), a new model from Audi whose brand power is rapidly growing with its aggressive image; and the BMW X3 (5.7 million yen), a pioneer in crossover models that emphasizes a sporty image with its compact body and AWD system. "We believe we have strategically kept the price low. When you compare the performance and equipment with rival vehicles, you'll see the XC60's superiority, including the standard City Safety feature," stated Volvo Car Japan.

Stylish and comfortable – this is the new appeal of the XC60. It serves as proof that Volvo has entered a new era, one that extends beyond safety.

Volvo XC60 SE AWD
Body | Length 4625 x Width 1890 x Height 1715mm
Engine | 3.0L Inline-6 Turbocharger
Max Output | 210kW [285ps] / 5600rpm
Max Torque | 400Nm [40.8kgm] / 1500-4800rpm
Drivetrain | 4WD
Transmission | 6-speed AT
Price | 5.99 million yen