2016 Volvo V60 and S60 Cross Country T5 AWD
I don’t often try to predict the future, as my crystal ball has rather a large crack in it. But in this case I feel that I am witnessing one of the great car company revivals as Volvo comes out with compelling new products like the all-new XC90 and S90. While the S60 Cross Country isn’t that, it is a very nice and quite unique sedan.
Basically an updated AMC Eagle or Subaru Outback SUS (remember those?), it has been jacked up 0.8 inches for total ground clearance of 7.9. Entry and exit are better for most folk and the ubiquitous pickups and SUVs don’t seem so intimidating from the sumptuously comfortable driver’s seat. The rest of the interior is lovely as well; nicely designed, with really intriguing textures, lovely polished trim and high quality materials. Back seat space is a tad tight and the Sensus Connect infotainment system (including smartphone-enabled remote start and other great real world features) isn’t as intuitive to use as through Volvo’s latest, but the aggregate is one of the nicer interiors at the price point.
The Cross Country drives like a slightly better riding version of the normal S60. It does a better job of smoothing off the rough stuff, though handling isn’t quite as responsive, due to the increased ride height. Steering is still decent and the brakes strong. The outgoing five-cylinder engine’s 250hp/266lb-ft channel through a six speed auto that has been massaged for smoother, more intuitive shifts and allow the Volvo to hit 60mph in just over six seconds. All future models will use the new 2-liter turbo or turbo/supercharged engine (which will also have a version labeled T5) and an eight speed ‘box.
The CC lipstick—silver ‘skid plates’ and side extenders—combine with the gorgeous, 18-inch wheels and flares to actually make this quite the looker. They distract from the S60’s otherwise weak chin; it’s a bit like a carefully trimmed beard hiding a paunchy man’s sagging features. The rest of the S60’s body is a study in carefully honed, sensuous forms that still draws praise. Volvo doesn’t expect many to opt for the Cross Country; only about 500 are coming are way and all are identically trimmed and painted and there are only a couple options. But for those who wouldn’t be caught driving a ‘wagon’ yet want a modicum of trail-ready braggadocio; this Swedish concoction is a refreshing alternative to something like a BMW X4 or other ‘coupified’ crossover.
EPA ratings: 20/28mpg; 23mpg combined
0-60mph: 6.1sec (CarandDriver.com)
Price as tested: $49,775
More info: http://www.volvocars.com/us/cars/new-models/s60-cross-country
While most of America goes crossover crazy, a few still love what a wagon stands for. With similar practicality yet better dynamics—and some of us would say better aesthetics—the V60 CC is one of three Euro wagons that hit these hot buttons. From the B-pillar forward it is basically identical to the S60 CC, the teardrop-shaped, sweeping roof and lovely, tapering side windows endow it with a very different character. While cargo room isn’t as generous as most midsize SUVs, it works fine for the “lifestyle” set who might ski/board, camp/hike or engage in other outdoors activity. The extra ground clearance is a boon here, and as a bonus, makes ingress/egress easier after the kind of injuries that go with such sports. One thing I’ve noticed over the decades is that men really dig sporty wagons, while most woman think they’re very uncool. That was certainly the case with the last client I helped get a Volvo. She said she wouldn’t be caught dead in the wagon, then proceeded to lease the S60 CC she fell totally in love with. Contrast that with the four or five random comments I received from strangers while driving the V60—all men—and how much coworkers liked it. Gender identities may be blending, but not—it appears—when we are talking about two- versus three-box automobiles. Either way, the Volvo Cross Country models are unique and compelling.
EPA ratings: 20/28mpg; 23mpg combined
0-60mph: 6.1 seconds (est.)
Price as tested: $49,775
More info: http://www.volvocars.com/us/cars/new-models/v60-cross-country
Isaac Bouchard is owner of Bespoke Autos, an auto brokerage that helps people save time, money and hassle when buying or leasing vehicles. Since 1991 he has helped his clients save over $1 million dollars. He has written extensively about getting the best deal possible when buying or leasing a vehicle, arranging financing or trading in a car. Isaac has been a professional automotive journalist as well for over 12 years, having reviewed most all types of car, truck and SUV.
Visit our Nice Drives section for more car reviews and comparisons.
Colorado AvidGolfer is the state’s leading resource for golf and the lifestyle that surrounds it. It publishes eight issues annually and proudly delivers daily content via www.coloradoavidgolfer.com.
