For quite sometime now, there has been this controversy that the 2014 Volvo XC60 matches, and often exceeds, luxury SUV rivals from the likes of BMW, Lexus, Audi, Acura and Infiniti. But while the controversy rages on, the question is; is Volvo in danger of losing its unique identity by meeting these other capable sport-utilities head-on in a hugely competitive market?
A Volvo was an intelligent choice, not a me-too luxury purchase by the designer bag-toting masses for a spec that is being positioned to provide a breath of fresh air in the luxury market. The XC60, for all its fine attributes, can feel lost amongst many other hugely competent and attractive SUVs
The Volvo XC60 is loaded with safety features, has a punchy optional turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, and comes wrapped in one of the more handsome luxury SUV bodies out there. In all trappings, many people is still inquisitive about knowing what’s missing from this stylish 5-passenger Swedish sport-ute?
Many years ago, the Swedish brand Volvo used to be a household name in many family garages and they were easily recognizable among associated with the high-end enterprising decision makers. But presently, things have changed following the sudden disappearance of the brand’s passenger cars and sport utility vehicles from the Nigerian market.
As a result of this, the buying public has shifted their loyalty to other brands, yet this switch of patronage have not removed sweet memories of Volvo from the minds of consumers the Volvo XC60 from the minds of car freaks. The Volvo XC60 is a classy and practical 4×4 available with very efficient engines.
To many, it is hard to believe that little more than a decade ago, Volvo had never produced a 4×4. These practical yet desirable cars just seem to fit perfectly with its image. It is a fantastic family car, with a spacious, versatile and appealing cabin, smooth motorway manners and loads of safety kit. However, the dashboard has some awkward buttons and the five-cylinder diesel engines are not as refined or economical as the engines in some rivals.
In terms of ride and handling, the standard model comes with a smooth ride and plenty of grip, although their steering is a little slow. The XC60 keeps everything well controlled in corners, but most rival SUVs suffer from less body lean, although the R-Design models sacrifice some comfort for tighter body control and sharper steering, but we reckon the standard car provides the better compromise for family buyers.
Volvo XC60 ranks 5 out of 10 luxury compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives as well as reliability and safety data. Test drivers say this is a great family car with a roomy cabin, a bunch of hi-tech safety features and a comfortable and classy interior, but they wish its base engine offered more power.
The base six-cylinder engine provides sufficient power, automotive writers say, but they recommend upgrading to the more powerful turbocharged six-cylinder engines in higher trims for their added power and brisk acceleration.
All models are equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission that reviewers say is generally smooth, but can occasionally hunt for gears while climbing hills. The base model gets an EPA-estimated 18/26 mpg city/highway, which is acceptable for the class. Test drivers say this current XC60 has controlled handling and a composed ride that is firm but comfortable.
You won’t find many more refined cars in this class than the XC60, thanks to low levels of wind, suspension and road noise. Volvo’s D4 engine- the first of a new family that will revolutionize the firm’s offering is appearing across the brand’s range of larger cars, all offering class-leading emissions despite the 181hp performance figure from the 2.0-litre diesel unit.
The eventual plan is for Volvo to replace its entire engine offering with one petrol and one diesel base over a range of power outputs during the next couple of years, with the petrol ranging from 140-300hp and the diesel from 120-230hp.
For the XC60 small off-roader, the D4 version delivers CO2 of 117g/km and by comparison, admittedly the four-wheel drive alternatives with the similar power from BMW and Audi, in the form of the X3 and Q5, offer 149g/km and 154g/km respectively.
All-in-all, the emissions for the XC60 D4 take it straight to the top of the class by some distance, but the recreational vehicles bring the premium German brands well and truly back into play.
MIKE OCHONMA
