Volvo XC60 Part 1: Design Review

The Volvo XC60 heralds in a new chapter in the design story of the Swedish automaker which – with a few notable exceptions - isn't exactly known for designing evocative cars.

Previewed in 2007 by the XC60 Concept, the production version is the first Volvo to employ the new design language spearheaded by recently departed design director, Steve Mattin.

The Concept version gave us an idea of Volvo's future design language. But it was such a departure from production Volvos - and so sexy-looking - that you thought, "nah... they won't build that." But here it is! Sure, some changes have been made, but overall, the XC60 represents a new kind of Volvo that will persuade even the most hardcore company loyalists to embrace progress.

Volvo's trapezoidal iron-mark grille makes the transition from show car to production car nearly unchanged. Bolder than on previous Volvos, it's flanked on either side by vertical day-time running lights - or DRLs - that look to be a new design feature we'll be seeing on future Volvos. Unfortunately, the sculpted styling of the concept has been toned down a bit, although it must be said that the XC60 is still curvier than you'd expect a Volvo to be - which is a good thing!

While Volvo would like us to see "sports coupe" in the XC60's greenhouse, that's a bit of a stretch. Yes, the sloping roofline does combine with the rising belt line to give the XC a great looking, dynamic profile. Add into the mix the thin-by-modern-standards A-Pillars and the upper half of the XC's body contrasts well with the athletic lower body, but let's not get carried away by calling it a coupe.

The muscular surfaces of the concept's main body make the transition slightly watered-down as well, but still look fantastic. The main character line that slashes through the front door and fades into the rear door isn't quite as successful as that of the concept, but it still serves to add a bit of flair not typical of the brand.

Perhaps the best view of the XC60 however is from behind, where the trademark swoopy taillights highlight the broad shoulders that have also become a company trademark. Those taillights also help to identify the car as a Volvo even when viewed from at a distance day or night.

Aesthetically, the XC60 makes a case for itself as one of the best-looking vehicles in its over-populated class. It also gives its sibling, the C30 sport coupe, a run for its money as the best-looking Volvo in the entire lineup, which is saying something!

Aimed at buyers who prioritize design, brand integrity and high-tech safety content, the newest member of Volvo's XC family is said to be the company's safest vehicle ever, and it may very well be. That it may also be its best looking will surely do just as much for its sales success, as well as for the brand.

Watch the video
Read Part 2: Interior & User Experience
Read Part 3: Performance

Volvo XC60

Performance
- Acceleration: Within its category, this thing is a rocket - nearly imperceptible turbo lag
- Handling: Surprisingly stiffly sprung, so it's sharp, although the ride suffers due to its non-compliant suspension - numb steering feel
- Braking: Like the steering, the brake pedal isn't exactly communicative, but it is effective

Design
- Exterior: Arguably the best looking Volvo in the company lineup (but the concept version was better still) - less Volvo-looking than some might want
- Interior: More drab than expected on our test car (go for the two-tone option) - a couple of design afterthoughts sprinkled about as well as some unexpected ergonomic flaws

Utility
- Comfort: Good seats, good visibility, and all the creature comforts expected - only the choppy ride lets it down
- Space: More spacious than almost all others in this class in back as well as in cargo area

Safety
- Dynamics: Sharp moves help the XC60 avoid accidents in the first place...
- Technology: ...but if they occur, it's got everything we've come to expect from a Volvo and then some - City Safety is an impressive feature (but a little scary to try out!)

Value
- Price: Considering the standard safety tech on board, it does represent good value - still easy to bump that price up high with options
- Mileage: Turbo thrust has its price, and the fact that the power is addictive doesn't help the cause in this area

Emotional Appeal
- Heart thumpin' factor: Perhaps if Scandinavian design is your thing, otherwise, not really
- Fun to spank: Not on the menu

SPECIFICATIONS

Layout: Front engine / All-wheel drive
Engine: 3.0-liter, turbocharged, inline-6
Power (SAE): 281 hp
Torque: 295 lb-ft
Gearbox: 6-speed automatic
Curb Weight: 4225 lbs.
0-60 mph: 7.1 sec.
Top Speed: 120 mph (electronically limited)
Mileage: 16 city / 22 highway
Base Price: $37,800
Competitors: Audi Q5, Lexus RX 350, Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, Cadillac SRX