Volvo XC60

Volvo's second-generation XC60 is a scaled-down version of the XC90, complete with an elegant, Scandinavian-themed interior. Like its big brother, it suffers from convoluted and distracting controls and an overly stiff ride. The 250-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is responsive enough, but the eight-speed automatic transmission shows an occasional hiccup. We measured 23 mpg overall on premium. A 316-hp version of that engine powers the uplevel T6, and a 400-hp plug-in hybrid is called the T8. The cabin benefits from supremely comfortable seats, a relatively roomy back, and a nicely finished cargo hold. Volvo's advanced safety system, City Safety, encompasses both low- and high-speed automatic emergency braking. Volvo's optional semi-self-driving Pilot Assist system combines steering assistance and adaptive cruise control to try to make driving easier.

The redesigned 2018 XC60 is Volvo's modern, up-to-date compact luxury SUV. The current XC60 is a bit long in the tooth. Styled like a baby Volvo XC90, the new XC60 will be available with a choice of three engines, each mated to an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. Preliminary specifications show the base T5 features a 250-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine. The T6 uses a 316-hp, 2.0-liter turbo and supercharged four-cylinder. The top model is the T8, which is a plug-in hybrid that uses the turbo supercharged four-cylinder engine. Total system output is approximately 400 hp from the gasoline engine and electric motor. The 2018 XC60 is longer than the current one but lower. The cabin looks very much like that of the XC90, down to the large touch-screen infotainment system that dominates the center of the dashboard. Volvo's advanced safety system, City Safety, encompasses both low- and high-speed automatic emergency braking. Some new features such as Steer Assist will work with other parts of the City Safety system to avoid obstacles in the road ahead. Oncoming Lane Mitigation will alert drivers who have wandered out of their lane and then guide the XC60 back into the correct lane. And Volvo’s blind-spot warning system will use the Steer Assist capabilities to lower the chances of having a collision when changing lanes.

The XC60 is a compact, upscale SUV that's pleasurable to drive but not as sporty as some competitors. The ride is a little stiff, but handling is responsive and secure at its limits. The 281-hp, 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder performs well, but fuel economy is mediocre at 17 mpg overall. A 3.2-liter six is also available. Most exterior noises are well suppressed. The cabin is attractively finished with high-quality materials and offers integrated child booster seats in the rear seat. The seats are well shaped and comfortable, but rear legroom is a bit tight. A wide variety of advanced safety gear is offered. Stability control with roll mitigation is standard, along with Volvo's City Safety system, which is more widely known as forward collision mitigation. The technology package also offers adaptive cruise control, collision warning, and a lane-departure warning system. An optional blind-spot sensor alerts drivers to hidden vehicles on their flanks.