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Volvo XC60 review

The XC60 is Volvo’s mid-sized SUV, and it’s a smart choice for a premium family SUV that’s safe and stylish. If the XC90 is too large but you want a cleaner look than what BMW can offer, an XC60 may be the car for you. Read our full Volvo XC60 review below.

Sam Sheehan from cinch

By Sam SheehanUpdated on 15 August 2024

Pros

  • Luxurious interior
  • Competent on all road conditions
  • Roomy

Cons

  • Quite pricey
  • Rivals have bigger boots
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Interior

Our rating: 9/10

Driving position

The XC60 is hands-down one of the most comfortable premium SUVs on sale, especially as it’s not the most expensive in the class.

The seats are large and very plush – think sitting room armchair – and the multi-way adjustment keeps passengers of all shapes and sizes happy.

If you’re a fan of Volvo interiors, then you won’t be disappointed with the XC60.

Tech and features

It’s hard to find any issues – it features a neat and organised layout and a large infotainment system that keeps the whole interior modern and tech-focused without being too minimalistic.

The materials are high-quality, featuring leathers, vegan options, and top-line plastics, wood or aluminium depending on the trim.

More expensive cars come with a few fancy flourishes like a crystal gear level knob, to rival the likes of BMW.

Of course, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on post-2021 models, as are USB ports and Harman Kardon sound systems. Wireless charging also comes with some trims.

Performance

Our rating: 8/10

Handling and ride comfort

Volvo knows how to make a comfortable SUV, and the XC60 delivers a refined drive.

It drives like a luxury saloon, with light and easy steering that’s well-suited to town.

The XC60 has an impressive turning circle, working a 360-degree manoeuvre in 11.4 meters, so you can flick out a quick U-turn when needed.

This is some dexterity for an SUV that very easily carries five people.

If you’re heading out of town for a country jaunt or a motorway stint then the larger alloys help smooth over any road surface, while the Polestar-created suspension makes easy work of any potholes.

The raised driving position also gives you confidence behind the wheel and great visibility – especially on country roads.

The XC60 has all-wheel drive, so you know you’re in safe hands when it comes to uneven road surfaces, wet weather or harsh winters.

While it’s not a 4x4, the XC60 is going to hold its own during those UK cold spells.

Practicality

Our rating: 7/10

Buy the XC60 and you’re guaranteed headroom and legroom for six-footers and below.

Rear seats

There’s plenty of space in the back for two adult passengers, three kids or three teenagers.

Storage solutions

Storage space is also very good, with large door bins, drink holders, and a large driver’s compartment.

Boot space

Boot space comes in at 505 litres, which isn’t as much as the Land Rover Discovery Sport’s 689 litres or the Audi Q5’s 550 litres, but there’s plenty of space for weekend bags and a medium suitcase or two.

The standard powered tailgate makes access very easy and makes parental life juggling bags, kids and dogs much easier!

For extra practicality, you can hitch up a trailer because the XC60 can tow up to 2,400kg.

Whether you ride horses and need a family SUV that can tow a horsebox, or you’re an avid caravaner, the XC60 can handle it all.

Running costs

Our rating: 8/10

The XC60 has multiple engine variations, including a PHEV option.

There isn’t a fully electric version yet, so if you’re after that, you’ll need to consider the XC40 recharge, the C40 or the E90.

Older versions come with two-litre, four-cylinder petrol and diesel options. All are paired with all-wheel drive and eight-speed automatic gearboxes.

Since 2021 you can choose between two-litre petrol engines that come with mild-hybrid technology to help with fuel consumption, or a diesel mild-hybrid two-litre B4 engine.

If you want to tow or do a lot of motorway driving, this will give you the best figures.

The T8 engine option is the fastest, managing an impressive 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds!

The verdict

Interior

9/10

Performance

8/10

Practicality

7/10

Running costs

8/10

The XC60 has been Volvo’s best-selling SUV since its launch, and it’s very clear to see why.

It’s hard to find anything to actively dislike about this car because Volvo just knows how to combine style, comfort, and easy driving in a practical mid-sized package.

This is a family SUV that’s an all-round people-pleaser.

It's a smart buy and suits the understated driver – whether a townie or a country-dweller.

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