To start with, Volvo’s execution of the new V60 is almost perfect. The car has enough space for many different uses, and its looks now appeal to the motoring public regardless of age.
The traditionally conservative Volvo has succeeded with its current model range in attracting the interest of younger buyers. The new V60 we are now testing is at the lower end of the Volvo range, even in terms of price, which makes it even more appealing.
Like two peas in a pod
The new V60 looks a lot like its big brother, the V90. The V60 has a more streamlined and linear look than the V90. At the same time, however, it has to be said that even the most trained eye can easily confuse the models in the wild when comparing them quickly.
The biggest differences in appearance come at the rear of the car. Where the V90 is stretched out, the V60 has a very harmonious and balanced look throughout. The difference in length is just under 20 centimetres.
With a starting price of just over €41,000, the V60 is around €9,000 cheaper than its big brother. The lowest-priced model is powered by the smallest diesel in the range, the two-litre, 150-horsepower D3, with a manual gearbox. In the test car, the gearbox is an eight-speed Geartronic automatic.
Driving ergonomics and space
In addition to looks, Volvo has clearly taken the driving ergonomics of its models seriously. The standard fabric-covered seats in the test car are positively surprising in their rigidity, although lateral support is fairly non-existent.
The nine-inch touchscreen is within easy reach and works exceptionally well even when wearing gloves. The system’s graphics will soon need an update, though, especially when the screen is showing the navigator’s map.
Click here to see the other test drives.
There’s plenty of room for longer legs in the back. The rear seats are designed with comfort in mind, and with at least two occupants, the journey is spacious.
In terms of rear seat dimensions, the V60 is very close to the V90. The legroom has been reduced by just under two centimetres and the width has been reduced by four centimetres. However, the seat-to-roof dimension has remained more or less the same.
Driving dynamics
The V60 is very close to other Volvo models in terms of driveability. There’s no talk of a sporty driving experience, but overall the car is very responsive. The chassis is stiff and there’s plenty of feel, even with 17-inch friction tyres.
The steering feel is also firm, quite tactile in the mid-range, and returns well. The steering wheel has a good grip, and Volvo also has one of the easiest-to-use steering wheels on the market in terms of functionality. All the essential buttons are there and the information on the instrument panel is clear, for example when setting the adaptive cruise control.
Completing the hybrid range
The engine range has been extended to include plug-in plug-in hybrids, now with the T6 model. The familiar T8 model is also available for the V60.
Both T6 and T8 models feature a two-litre petrol engine combined with an 87 hp electric motor. The petrol engines have maximum outputs of 253 and 303 horsepower respectively. The T6 has a WLTP measured CO2 emission value of 49 g/km and a starting price of €55,591.
Technical specifications.
- Engine: 2.0-litre in-line four
- Maximum power: 150 hp.
- Maximum torque: 320 Nm.
- Acceleration: 9.9 sec (0-100 km/h)
- Combined fuel consumption and CO2 emissions: 5.7 l/100km. and 149 g/kmCapacity: 529 litres
- Fuel tank: 60 litres
- Kerb weight: 1738 kg.
- Starting price: 43 622 euros
