Getting to the actual driving characteristics, the foremost aspect that makes itself clear is the vastly improved sound-deadening in the Volvo XC60 that keeps occupants cosseted in inner peace and the cabin in tranquillity. Wind and road noise are almost undetectable and even the noise from blaring traffic is kept to a minimum. The support from the multi-way, power-adjustable seats is fantastic and lets the occupant of the driver’s seat really appreciate being in the car. The steering feel is good and feedback is just right. The drive modes also alter the levels of steering feel, making for a more involving drive, and give a feeling of being in complete control.
Should you wish to disconnect for a bit, the adaptive cruise control is one of the easiest to use — and there are choices for both speed and distance. So long as there are lane-markings, the XC60 will even steer itself to stay within those white lines. The ride quality is sublime and a far cry from the rather stiff ride of its predecessor. The double-wishbone front and multi-link rear with air suspension all round make for exceptional stability and a plush ride. Even at speed, the Volvo XC60 feels reassuringly planted and completely unperturbed by any changes of direction. The blind-spot assist lights up in the wing mirrors to assist when an approaching vehicle is detected while overtaking or changing lanes.
Getting up to speed and staying there is a piece of cake as the XC60 D5 musters up 480 Nm of peak torque from 1,750 rpm. The eight-speed auto box isn’t the most urgent but does more than a decent job. Going from zero to 100 km/h takes nine seconds and, on the move, overtaking acceleration is good with 40 to 80 km/h dismissed in just four seconds. Not too bad at all for a 1.9-tonne luxury SUV. Then again, its handling completely belies its size. On the brakes, too, the XC60 sheds speed in a thoroughly undramatic manner. Again, “confidence” seems to be the irrefutable keyword when it comes to its handling under hard acceleration, cornering or braking.
The Volvo XC60, then, captures the essence of Scandinavian values in terms of design, comfort, technology, and a modern, contemporary style. It will take on the rough stuff and dust itself off. It will munch tarmac while pampering its occupants in Swedish luxury. It’s a brilliant all-rounder and it has been well-accepted the world over, significantly contributing to Volvo’s record sales of 2017 and 2018. Besides, that it was crowned the World Car of the Year 2018, beating some big names in the process, speaks volumes in itself. At Rs 59.90 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s well within the ball-park of the big names here, too. It’s a sensible car and the amount of thought that’s gone into its creation is evident indeed.
Need to Know – Volvo XC60 D5 AWD Inscription
Price: Rs 59.90 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine: 1,969 cc, in-line four, twin-turbo diesel
Max Power: 235 PS @ 4,000 rpm
Max Torque: 480 Nm @ 1,750-2,250 rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed, automatic, all-wheel drive
Suspension: Double-wishbone front, five-link rear, air springs
Weight: 1,900 kg
