2009 Volvo XC60
By: Juan G. Robbin
Evolutionary design that still looks fresh.
Volvo XC60 (2009)
The parental lineage to its big brother, the XC90 is readily apparent in the XC60 yet with freshened and updated details that is keeping this good looking design layout fresh and current.
Volvo’s image touts safety and a conservative design idea, which at times, some may say that it can be a bit dull. With the new for 2009 XC60, a subtle, yet noticeable change in philosophy has occurred. The exterior is updated with cool looking, sculpted rear lights as well as LED twilight lamps in front. The side profile of the XC60 is simply gorgeous, with the perfect proportion not only in size but also how the wheels and bumpers fit with the design. The front grille is dominated by an oversized Volvo corporate logo as well as the radar sensor for the adaptive cruise control system.
Inside you are greeted by a clean, minimalist, uncluttered Scandinavian style design. There is the optional light wood center stack appliqué as well as the easy to use HVAC controls. Seats have a unique two-tone supple leather finish that makes the interior stand out as well as being comfortable and supportive. The large panoramic glass roof creates an airy ambiance throughout the cabin, with a shoji-like electric shade that still lets filtered light shine in. Rear seats are comfortable to two, snug for three. There are innovative integrated outboard child booster seats that are a marvel of simplicity and convenience. Rear cargo space is typical for a mid-sized SUV style vehicle; with the rear seats folded forward, cargo room increases dramatically. Fit and finish even in areas like the cargo bay are first rate. Our press vehicle came with the optional DVD based navigation system that worked well with a quirky twist; all inputs are handled through a remote control. Why not keep things simple and have a touch screen system instead? Audio and ventilation information is displayed in a small center mounted hump mid dash. There is a large strip of lights in front of the driver, these are tied in to the external sensors which activate if a car comes too close or the approach speed is very high against an object. Its part of the optional technology package that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, collision warning and auto brake system. The lane departure system is great feature, but it can, at times become a bit annoying. Its easily triggered by simply getting too close to a lane line. We tried the auto brake feature by putting up some Volvo supplied plastic reflective barriers; we accelerated and simply did not touch the brake. At the last second, the system sensed the barriers and activated the brakes, at times hard enough to go into the ABS zone. We tried it three times at various speeds and in every case the XC60 stopped right at the barrier. No, I didn’t try it against another object but I am sure it will work as advertised.
One of the things we liked the most on the Volvo XC60 was the cohesiveness of the controls. The way the throttle, brakes and steering felt all working in combination. Like a trio of tenors in concert. The throttle and brakes have the perfect pedal force. Easy to make smooth starts and a joy to practice “limo stops” when coming to a stop. Power from the 3.0 liter V6 engine is impressive. It’s surprisingly quick and smooth regardless of what you ask of it. Handling felt more like a sedan than a midsized crossover. Suspension feels direct and at times a bit sporty, yet never choppy or harsh. The XC60 comes with an all wheel drive system with Instant Traction, we found this system to be like a good butler, ready to assist yet totally transparent at all the right times.
The 2009 Volvo XC90 is superbly designed, perfectly sized, offering a complete package with a Zen-like feel.
The Essentials
MSRP: $37,200.00 MSRP (As Tested): $44,240.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 17.6 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.0 liter, 281 HP
Popular options: Technology Package, Multi-media package, Mod wood center stack inlay, metallic paint.
Visit: www.volvocars.com