Tough Yet Compact

The new "V60 Cross Country" is based on the mid-size station wagon,V60which was redesigned last September, and has been adapted into a crossover model.

While largely retaining the V60's styling, it features exclusive items such as a matte black front grille with chrome trim, fender extensions to accommodate larger tires, and gloss black side window trim. It inherits the elegant and sporty impression of the V60 while adding a ruggedness that hints at its enhanced off-road capability.

To achieve the superior off-road performance expected of a crossover, the minimum ground clearance has been increased by 65mm compared to the V60, to 210mm. Although slightly larger than the V60 due to its exclusive trim, its dimensions of 4,785mm (length) x 1,895mm (width) x 1,505mm (height) maintain a height that fits within typical Japanese multi-story parking garages. Furthermore, all models come standard with AWD and Hill Descent Control, which allows for safe descent on slippery steep slopes with minimal driver input.



The model lineup consists of two grades: the base "T5 AWD" and the higher-spec "T5 AWD Pro." As with the V60, standard equipment includes the advanced driver-assistance system "IntelliSafe" with over 16 functions, an infotainment system "Sensus" comprising a 9-inch vertical touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital driver display, an HDD navigation system, a 12-segment terrestrial digital TV tuner, an ETC 2.0 onboard unit, and LED headlights.

Let's briefly touch on the differences between the grades. The "T5 AWD" features seats upholstered in T-Tec/textile combination fabric, a 10-speaker, 170W high-performance audio system, and 18-inch alloy wheels. In contrast, the "T5 AWD Pro" is upgraded with perforated Nappa leather seats, a 14-speaker, 600W Harman Kardon premium sound audio system, and 19-inch alloy wheels. It also boasts enhanced features such as a 360-degree view camera, front seat heaters, a powered tailgate, and a head-up display.

Volvo's Strong Sales Driven by SUVs

In contrast to the rugged exterior, the interior is not exclusive but rather elegant, mirroring the V60. Depending on the grade, it is either fabric or leather upholstery. However, the "T5 AWD" can be optioned with leather, though it differs from the leather used in the "Pro" model. The interior and luggage space are equivalent to the V60.

The powertrain features a Drive-E 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, producing a maximum output of 187 kW (254 ps) at 5,500 rpm and a peak torque of 350 Nm (35.7 kgm) between 1,500 and 4,800 rpm. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The fuel consumption is rated at 11.6 km/L under the JC08 mode.

At the press conference, President and Representative Director Takayuki Kimura stated, "The Cross Country has a 22-year history since the first model, the V70XC. It is the perfect vehicle for people living in the city who spend their weekends in the nature-rich suburbs and enjoy winter sports. I believe it is the most Swedish model we offer."



He also commented on Volvo's sales performance. Reviewing global and domestic sales figures over the past five years, he highlighted Volvo's strong sales both internationally and in Japan. In Japan, the "XC40" and "XC60" SUVs have been particularly successful, leading to long delivery times for customers. Consequently, he is negotiating with headquarters to increase production for the Japanese market.

If these negotiations proceed smoothly, it is possible to exceed this year's sales target of 18,500 units, an increase of about 1,000 units from last year's 17,389 units, reaching 20,000 units. He expressed strong confidence in the appeal of Volvo's new generation products. Supporting this, first-quarter sales results showed a steady increase of 9.4 percent globally and 12.1 percent in Japan compared to the same period last year.

He also mentioned that the subscription service "SMAVO" contributes to strong sales, in addition to the appeal of the new generation Volvos. SMAVO, in simple terms, is a lease service that allows customers to drive their desired Volvo for a fixed monthly fee with no down payment. Last year, SMAVO accounted for 16 percent of all new car sales.

The introduction of the mid-size sedan "S60" is also anticipated in the near future, which will complete the lineup of announced new generation products. However, the "V40" series, Volvo's entry-level model and a significant contributor to sales volume, is nearing the end of its lifecycle. The "V40 T5 R-Design Final Edition," believed to be a final limited edition, was released in early April. Attention will be on whether this strong performance can be maintained beyond the current fiscal year.