Volvo XC60 (08 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 01 August 2011
Combining off-road toughness and practicality with coupe styling and driving characteristics doesn't sound like an obvious mix, but that's exactly what Volvo has aimed to do with the XC60 - an alternative to cars like the Land Rover Freelander and BMW X3. It's certainly very stylish with a less boxy and bulky look than the larger XC90, but it's designed to also be spacious and family-friendly. Volvo also offers a low-emission, front-wheel drive version badged DRIVe. On the road it doesn't handle like an off-roader, with good body control, while the ride quality is excellent, making it a superb long distance machine. There are three engines available, including the punchy D5 diesel, although this is fairly noisy and not as refined as newer diesels. The XC60 is also the safest car Volvo has ever made and all models get City Safety - a system designed to prevent low speed impacts.
4 out of 5

Other Volvo reviews

2.5 out of 5

Buying new

You'll struggle to get any sort of discount on an XC60 (although it's more likely if you decide to go for the thirsty and expensive T6) and Volvo dealers won't be in any hurry to offer incentives to sell. That's not to say it isn't worth aiming to get some optional extras thrown in. The SE trim is the one to go for and represents good value compared to similarly priced alternatives.

Buy a new Volvo XC60 and save 11% on selected models

3 out of 5

Buying used

The XC60 is unlikely to be a car that's taken seriously off road often (if at all) but it's still worth a quick check underneath to make sure there's no hidden damage or scrapes. Avoid the T6 (which is incredibly rare anyway) and go for the D5 for a good blend of performance and economy. The entry-level S model is rare and most cars will be SE trim.

  • Boot/Load Space Volvo XC60 (08 on)
  • Interior Volvo XC60 (08 on)

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See 87 used Volvo XC60s for sale, starting at £13,988

4 out of 5

Selling

Like its larger counterpart the XC90, the smaller Volvo will always be sought after on the second hand market. You'll struggle to sell a T6 model but the diesels will shift in no time, especially the SE Lux versions. Buyers will prefer cars fitted with sat nav but won't pay much extra for one.