By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com
Volvo’s dynamic XC60 offers a full spectrum of performance possibilities for 2015 with the widest array of powertrain choices since its introduction. It’s the latest evolution of Volvo’s small premium utility following last year’s extensive styling changes, increased luxury, enhanced convenience and safety innovations.
The XC60 lineup continues to offer models fitted with Volvo’s signature All Wheel Drive with Instant Traction. The new XC60 T6 AWD results in an impressive blend of outstanding performance and value. Output for its 3.0 liter turbocharged six cylinder engine is 300 horsepower and 325 lb.ft. of torque. All Wheel Drive with Instant Traction and six speed automatic are also standard.
Last year’s design refresh graced XC60 with completely new styling from the windshield forward. Changes included a new hood, front fenders and fascia that emphasize a wider and more confident appearance. Redesigned headlights flank a bolder grille sporting a larger Volvo Iron mark. Other enhancements included a lower front spoiler with bright trim, vertically mounted LED daytime running lights, front and rear skid plate décor and integrated exhaust pipe design.
Among the XC60’s roster of interior features is a standard 3-spoke steering wheel, Off Black dash top, wood décor trim on front door panels, cloth covered B-pillars, metal trim around air vents, silver décor frame for the headlight module, Quartz headliner, front door sill plates and a metal threshold for the cargo area.
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, an Inscription Package is offered on the T6 model. This includes exclusive Sovereign Hide soft leather seating surfaces, Anthracite Black headliner, leather covered dashboard, Linear Walnut Wood inlays, leather front console cover and Inscription door sill plates.
A Technology Package, standard with the Platinum trim and optional on other XC60s, includes Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with Full Auto Brake. The package also features Active High Beam that automatically switches the headlights to low beam when opposite traffic is detected, Road Sign Information displays traffic speed signs for the driver on the instrument cluster based on the Forward Looking Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control, with Queue Assist, Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake, Distance Alert, Driver Alert Control and Lane Departure Warning.
Volvo On Call is a new standard sophisticated telematics system that includes a driver activated SOS button, automatic collision alert and GPS location tracking by emergency service operators. If an airbag or seatbelt pre-tensioner is deployed, emergency assistance is notified even if the driver is unable to press the button.
WiFi Hotspot uses the standard 3G-based Volvo On Call plus the car’s regular rooftop antenna giving the driver access to cloud based Volvo services without an onboard smartphone. The driver can create a WiFi hotspot inside the car so passengers can connect their smartphone, laptop or tablet to the Internet.
New Sensus Navigation, standard on Premier and Platinum trims and all T6 models, integrates all navigation functions into the car. The system is easy to use, without taking one’s attention from traffic. Unlike using a smart phone as a navigation device, the navigation screen is displayed on the standard in-dash 7-inch monitor. Sensus Navigation has improved graphics including 3D imaging, improved voice recognition, new routing options and built in apps.
The base manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $42,400.00 for the 2015 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD model, the one I drove included the Platinum and Blind Spot Information System Packages in addition to Metallic Paint, Heated Front Seats, Child Booster Seats and 20 Inch Titania Alloy Wheels, and it came in at $51,675.00, which includes a $925.00 destination charge.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
