Volvo will go all-electric in Australia, but it will sell petrol cars for a little longer – and XC60 is an important part of that plan.
It’s been around for a long time, but Volvo has worked hard to keep it fresh in the face of increasing competition.
Along with a massaged look and some new trim levels, it has a new set of Automotive Android-based tech inside that helps it match the newer models in its range.
Unlike Mercedes-Benz, it has cut GLC Ranged for just one model, the XC60 lineup offers plenty of choice.
You could spend up to $100,000 before you move on for a plug-in hybrid flagship, but there’s a solid argument to be made that the entry-level model tested here is all you need the XC60.
How much does Volvo XC60 Plus B5 cost?
The Plus B5 tested here is the cheapest XC60 in Australia, with a list price of $72,990 in advance on road expenses — which equates to a driving price of about $81,000.
That puts it in line with then Audi Q5 35 TDI ($71,250), and Genesis GV70 2.5T 2WD ($68,500).
The BMW car X3 range starts at $84,700 before hitting the road, and the cheapest Mercedes-Benz GLC — the only GLC, in fact — will set you back $104,900 before hitting the road.
Price of Volvo XC60 2023:
- Volvo XC60 Plus B5: 72,990 USD
- Volvo XC60 Ultimate B5 Bright: $79,990
- Volvo XC60 Ultimate B6 Dark: $86,990
- Volvo XC60 Ultimate T8 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid: $101,990
Price does not include road costs
How is the interior of the Volvo XC60?
The XC60 is getting longer and longer but inside it still has a modern look and feel.
The vertical touchscreen still features a wider range and has recently been upgraded with new software, while the design and materials remain on par with newer rivals.
Volvo has some of the best seats in the business, and the XC60 is no exception. There’s plenty of support for tall drivers and it neatly balances long-distance support with soft cushioning.
The base model has soft leather effect trim that reminds me of the first-generation XC90 on the seats, silver trim on the dashboard, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Unlike the Audi Q5 35 TDI, you don’t feel like you’re missing out on much here.
Volvo’s transition from the Sensus infotainment system to Google’s latest Automotive Android-based system may seem small on the surface because many of the graphics/menus are similar. However, the new setup is much more responsive and has up-to-date Google Maps with live traffic.
You can download Spotify directly to your car instead of plugging in your phone to use it, and it’s compatible with over-the-air updates so the feature set is constantly evolving. Hopefully it will grow to include wireless Apple CarPlay at some point.
Opposite the driver is a fairly simple digital toolbox. You get the choice between dial-only or dial-in with Google Map in between – but the car lacks many of the options available elsewhere in the segment or in the Volkswagen Group’s cheaper cars.
Storage space could use some work compared to newer competitors.
Dual cup holders are fine, but the wireless phone charger is in an awkward position if you have a larger phone and have less space for coins, keys or a throttle switch than the BMW X3 or Mercedes-Benz GLC.
That’s something Volvo will need to address as the XC60 goes all-electric; The EX30 has a very clever interior that maximizes the limited space on offer, so it’s safe to assume the EX60 will follow in those footsteps.
Rear seat space is decent, but not top.
The rear door opens beautifully and is wide, making it easy to load a child (or child) seat, and the upright design means you have plenty of headroom. There’s enough rear space for adults to sit behind adults, and kids will appreciate the rear climate control and vents on hot summer days.
Volvo actually gives you air vents on both the center console and the pillars, which is second to none. Volvo’s built-in booster seat also remains a neat touch for parents, and dual USB-C points will keep the iPad charged on long road trips.
Cargo capacity in the B5 models is quoted as 483 liters with the rear seats in use, extended 1430L with them folded flat.
It’s a bit smaller than what you get in a BMW X3, but it’s not too different. In typical Volvo style, it has flat floors and mesh on the sides to keep smaller items safe. Under the floor is a spare wheel to save space.
What’s under the bonnet?
The power in B5 AWD comes from a 2.0 liter turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine do 183kW power and 350Nm of torque.
It’s powered by a 48V mild hybrid system designed for smoother start/stop than before. In more expensive models, it also drives an electric turbocharger.
XC60 B5 AWD uses a statement 7.6L/100km on the combined cycle, with emissions rated at 174 grams/km of CO2. We saw 9.0 liters per 100 km in a week of city driving.
All models are equipped with a 71 liters gas tank. Brake traction power is 2400kg for versions B5 and B6.
How does the Volvo XC60 Plus B5 drive?
The XC60 is a comfortable cruiser, refined and effortless to be sporty.
It’s perfectly suited for getting around town, with a light steering that makes it easy to maneuver into tight parking spots and a suspension tune focused on keeping city roads zigzagging outside.
Even though the engine is a 2.0-liter and the least powerful option offered in the range, it’s powerful enough to get the XC60 rolling without feeling strained.
Unlike a base BMW X3, the entry-level XC60 is still all-wheel drive. While it’s not a necessity, having an extra level of safety in wet conditions or if you’re venturing into the snow can just be a good thing.
Lean on the accelerator and it will squeeze you back into the seat well enough, and the eight-speed transmission shifts smoothly through the gears.
There’s a bit of noise from the engine inside compared to what you’d get in a BMW X3 or Mercedes-Benz GLC, especially when you’re in a hurry, but it’s still very well tuned.
Comfort pays off well on the highway, where the XC60 is a very comfortable cruiser. It rides quietly on rough roads, and the soft suspension tone means potholes and subtle expansion joints beneath the wheels.
While it may feel a bit bouncy when it comes to large peaks and steep falls at 100 km/h, this is a car you can happily drive from Melbourne to Sydney.
Less powerful engine tuning is most noticeable at highway speeds, where the XC60 doesn’t have as much performance reserve as its more powerful siblings.
It still has enough power to get through with a full load of people and their kits on board, but you’ll need a slightly longer ride than the more powerful alternatives.
Volvo’s driver assistance systems are intelligently calibrated, from confident lane-keeping to smooth, adaptive cruise.
What do you get?
Highlights of XC60 Plus B5:
- 19 inch diamond cut alloy
- LED headlights with active flex
- LED front fog lights
- Android Automotive 9.0-inch infotainment system
- Satellite navigation included. Google map
- Radio DAB
- Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
- Digital service, 4 year subscription
- Wireless smartphone charger
- 4-zone climate control
- electric tailgate
- Automatic anti-glare rearview mirror
- Electric front seats with memory
- Electric folding rear headrest
- Leather interior
Is Volvo XC60 Plus B5 safe?
The petrol version of the Volvo XC60 wears a Five-star safety rating ANCAP based on Euro NCAP tests in 2017. Plug-in hybrid models are yet to be rated.
The XC60 scored 98% for adult passenger protection, 87% for child passenger protection, 76% for pedestrian detection, and 95% for safety assistance.
Standard safety features include:
- Adjustable speed limiter
- Adaptive cruise control included. Pilot support
- Active lane centering
- Stop&Go function
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Forward and reverse
- Pedestrians, Cyclists, Animal Detection
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-section support
- 360 degree camera
- Parking sensors front, rear and side
- Assist to begin across hill
- Downhill control
How much does Volvo XC60 Plus B5 run?
Like the broader Volvo lineup, the XC60 is powered by 5 year unlimited km warrantywith eight years of additional roadside assistance 24/7.
Rechargeable models also come with an eight-year hybrid battery warranty.
Volvo offers three- and five-year service packages for the XC60 series, priced at $1750 And $3000 corresponding. Scheduled maintenance is required every 12 months or 15,000 km – whichever comes first.
CarExpert tests Volvo XC60 Plus B5
The XC60 isn’t as flashy as its newer rivals, but it still has a lot to offer.
It’s still well-equipped for the price, and has a practical interior that delivers on the promise of the Volvo badge. While the driving experience isn’t class-leading, it’s not far-fetched.
However, the real factor here is price. It’s $10,000 cheaper than a basic rear-wheel drive BMW X3 based on list price, but it’s a far cry from a cheap knockoff or replacement.
Instead, Volvo is doing what Volvo does best – building affordable, practical cars for buyers who don’t need the appeal of a German badge.
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THAN: Everything Volvo XC60
