Articles by Peter Barnwell

All VW's Caddy vans aren't the same. There are lots of them including a long wheelbase version called the Maxi Crewvan with two rows of seats and a load space as well. Crewvan is in the same workspace as a dual cab ute but it's a van.DESIGNIt is functionality in a concentrate as the relatively compact dimensions of the Crewvan can swallow up to an 850kg payload as long as you don't need to carry five people. It has two side slider passenger/loading doors and a pair of barn doors at the rear. There's windows halfway back along the side for the rear seat passengers then it's a blind van from there back.ENGINE AND TRANSMISSIONCrewvan is available with a 1.6-litre turbo diesel engine only and either a five-speed manual or slick shifting seven-speed DSG automated manual with front wheel drive. Our test vehicle had the latter and it makes a world of difference to the van in terms of driveability. It's a lot better with the DSG and definitely worth the money.The plucky donk is good for 75kW/250Nm output the latter from a low 1500rpm right where you want it for heavy lugging. Fuel consumption is an impressive 5.9 litres/100km giving the Crewvan a possible range of around 1000km. A diesel particle filter keeps the exhaust clean and the engine scores an EU5 emissions rating. The rear suspension is a hard working rigid axle/leaf spring arrangement.PRICE AND FEATURESThe start price is $27,990 but you get a decent amount of kit even if the wheels are steel without any sort of covering and the bumper and other external plastics are drab grey.A pollen/dust filter, full size spare, park distance control, decent audio, remote central locking, aircon', multiple airbags and cruise are all included in the package. But satnav is optional with no mention of a rear view camera.DRIVINGObviously designed for owners who need a dual purpose passenger/work vehicle, the long wheelbase Crewvan has plenty to offer including excellent fuel economy and room to burn. The load space, indeed the entire vehicle has practical rubber floor mats and there are a number of tie down fixtures in the load area.The rear pews are split fold but require a prop to hold them in place which intrudes a tad into the available large load space. Load height is low and a pallet will easily fit in the back. The lack of satnav is a problem because rear visibility is compromised a bit due to the ‘blind’ rear side panels. The turning circle could be a touch smaller too.Plenty of storage compartments are provided including one big overhead bin above the front cabin. All in all a good little vehicle. Well, it's actually bigger than you think. It's not pretty, but aesthetics don't really matter on a work vehicle…do they?VERDICTEconomical, good performance, plenty of room, practical long warranty and not too hard on the wallet.

Let's face it, if you're a front runner in Formula 1 you know a thing or two about cars. Renault knows a thing or two about F1... and after more than a century, road cars as well and the cross-pollination between the two has yielded arguably one of the best light cars available in the new Clio.It's actually bigger than the accepted light car size being more like a small car and will no doubt pinch a few sales from that segment too. The Clio sets a benchmark thanks to Renault's expertise in extracting the utmost from current technology and also using a smattering of clever stuff to finish off the job.ENGINES AND TRANSMISSIONSFollowing the engineering trend towards smaller capacity high-tech turbo engines new Clio has either a 900cc three-pot turbo petrol or a 1.2-litre four-pot turbo petrol under the bonnet. Buy the three banger here and it's with a five-speed manual transmission only. Buy the four banger and it's a six-speed dual-clutch manumatic (auto) only.Clear cut but problematic, given the majority of cars in this segment are autos and usually the base or one up from base models. The 0.9 engine (called the TCe90) is good for 66kW/135Nm and 4.5-litres/100km while the 1.2  (TCe120) achieves 88kW/190Nm and 5.2-litres/100km.The larger engine has direct fuel injection while both have a small turbo charger integrated into the inlet manifold for maximum efficiency. Variable valve timing is used on both cams and the engine is actually modular -- the three is pretty much the same as the four with one lung lopped off.STYLENew Clio is slightly larger than its predecessor but lower in ride height and roofline. What's under the skin counts for plenty in a car but so does the outside and in this regard, the Clio is way out in front with arguably the best looking, sassy sheet metal going around on a five door hatch.It features the new 'big eye' Renault front with a large centrally located badge and gorgeous curves all over the place. The rear doors have hidden latches and the car's powerful haunches make it look crouched ready to pounce. Rear styling is just as imposing and distinctive as the front.PRICES AND FEATURESPricing starts at $16,790 for the Authentique TCe90 rising to $23,200 for the TCe120 Dynamique. The Clio has an impressive interior with a large central iPad-like panel housing most of the car's functions including the latest in digital connectivity while the actual instrument pod is highlighted by two eye catching dials with a large digital speedo in between.A number of fascia are used, including a soft feel dash pad with a square hatched texture, textured metallic surfaces on some models and splashes of colour. It really is something else in a sea of sameness from other offerings in the segment. Standard kit is generous and Clio gets a five star safety rating.ECONOMYFuel economy is boosted by auto stop/start on the three pot,  'eco' coaching and eco switch for the driver, active front air vents that close at speed and low rolling resistance tyres among numerous other fuel saving techniques featured. They cut 100kg from Clio's flanks this time around but boosted chassis strength and safety through better design and selective use of high strength steel. The wheels are lighter, the stabiliser bars are hollow, the chassis crossmember is lighter but stronger and they even cut weight from the engine with hollow camshafts.DRIVINGThis is where the new Clio really shines. It rates as one of the most engaging drives for the money and we haven't even got to the high performance RS version yet. That's here soon. Dynamics are sharp and responsive from the simple strut front and torsion beam rear suspension. But then that's to be expected from the company that produces the dynamite Renault Megane RS265.The Clios we drove are engaging to drive, stable, well planted and responsive. You can have a ball without going at ballistic speeds. The 1.2 has plenty of get go while the 0.9 is not bad as a city runabout except for the lack of an auto tranny.We'd go for the TCe120 every day - with the electric pack for an extra $300 that includes electric rear windows, electric boot release, remote unlock and auto wipers and lights. The Clio can be customised inside and out for not much money with a range of wheels, colour options, interior materials and other cool stuff.VERDICTWe would have one in a flash, the mid-range Expression TCe 120 would be our pick at $19790 -- a bargain. Looks great on the driveway, and is something different.

Inevitably, Land Rover's Freelander gets the benefit of Evoque's big development budget with a revised model of the harder core off roader surfacing late last year. Current model Freelander has already moved into generation II but the latest revamp earlier this year brought a big change to the petrol model's engine and transmission as well as some style and equipment tweaks.ENGINE AND TRANSMISSIONGone is the previous straight six cylinder donk to be replaced by a 2.0-litre turbo four pot out of Evoque (and Falcon, and Mondeo and others). The engine achieves 177kW/340Nm and features variable valve timing both sides plus direct fuel injection. The manifold is from sheet metal to save weight and to make the turbo system as compact and efficient as possible.The Si4 will put down a 0-100kmh sprint time of 8.8 seconds and use an average of 9.6-litres/100km. The transmission is a six speed auto from Japanese manufacturer Aisin. It's the real deal offroad, with constant all-wheel drive, plenty of ground clearance and under body protection.SAFETYIt scores a five star European NCAP rating and passes Euro 5 emissions regulations.PRICE AND FEATURESThe $55,600 Si4 Freelander gets changes to the headlights, grille, sundry body hardware and the inside scores a new centre console, bigger 7-inch touch screen, better satnav and a premium Meridian audio system along with all the goodies you'd expect from a medium size premium SUV. Keyless start, electric park brake, climate control and a new Terrain Response selector make an appearance.DRIVINGSome may think the engine change is a backwards step, but one drive of the Freelander Si4 will convince even the biggest sceptics of the benefits flowing from the new, smaller turbo engine. There's better acceleration for a start -- to say nothing of better fuel economy and drive feel. It's better all round, lighter and with solid environmental credentials.On road behaviour is up to the premium level in which the Freelander Si4 plays. The drive feel is all positive. It has plenty of performance and good road manners. The auto executes quick shifts up and down the range and offers a paddle shift on the wheel.There's room inside for five with plenty of luggage space and a full size spare.There are not that many competitors. Volvo's equivalent XC60 is a lot more money, and while the Japanese and other Euro models are less but possibly not as good on and off the road.VERDICTWe like it. The Freelander is affordable, stylish, tough and good looking as well as offering a high level of luxury. And it's a lot less than an Evoque.Land Rover Freelander Si4Price: from $55,600Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmResale: 51%Service interval: 12 months/26,000kmSafety: 7 airbags, ABS, EBD, EBA, TCCrash rating: 5 starsEngine: 2-litre 4-cyl turbo-petrol, 177kW/340NmTransmission: 6-speed auto; AWDThirst: 9.6L/100km; 95RON; 224g/km CO2Dimensions: 4.5m (L), 1.9m (W), 1.7m (H)Weight: 1775kgSpare: Full-size 

It's early days with our Mitsubishi Outlander Aspire, but we're already liking many things about the SUV -- including its new design, the efficiency and raft of equipment fit-out.We got hold of the top of the range new Mitsubishi Outlander Aspire that sells for about $51K with the optional $5500 Premium pack included in that price. But you can get one for as little as $28,990 for the base 2WD model.This one has everything including stuff normally fitted to vehicles costing twice as much. Driver assist goodies like adaptive cruise control which maintains a set distance from cars in front, hill start assist, reverse sensors, and forward collision mitigation which is an auto braking system.Of course, there's leather upholstery, power tailgate, auto headlights and wipers, Rockford Fosgate audio with a big sub-woofer, paddle shift for the six speed auto transmission, 7-inch touch screen and a whole lot more to make you happy.The Outlander is built on an integral ladder chassis with button select all-wheel drive and a terrific powertrain driving through a slick six speed auto.  It's the perfect set up as far as we are concerned.The engine is a 2.2-litre turbodiesel with 110kW/360Nm output. That's not startling in the greater scheme of things but it delivers full grunt at just 1500 revs  pretty much straight off idle.This is the new generation Outlander with a more rounded and capacious body, and we like the styling. But looks aren't everything. The Outlander Aspire is economical, has plenty of performance, is robust enough to go a fair way off road, has good towing capacity of 2.0 tonnes and is not a bad looker either, though we reckon it needs bigger bumpers. It gets going a treat and pulls strongly through a wide rev range. Equally important is the five star crash rating and fuel economy of an impressive 5.8 litres/100km.Mitsu' has fitted a selection of `eco' kit to the Outlander including a coaching system to help you minimise fuel use and engine friction reduction along with optimised ancillary functions such as the air conditioning and the 4WD system. There's a plug-in diesel hybrid Outlander just around the corner that really takes fuel economy to a new level. But this one is impressive in its own right.We like the chrome body hardware, the stylish and functional interior and the smart key ignition. And it's the right size for city and country use -- not too big despite offering seven seats.

Limousine operators are lucky people because they will be among the privileged few who will get to enjoy driving a car such as the BMW 750i. Second thoughts, they'd probably go for the diesel or the ActivHybrid model because of (marginally) less fuel use than the twin turbo petrol V8 750.So who gets to own and drive a 750i? Don't ask us. This is almost certainly a chauffeur car which is a pity because it's also a superb driver's car.ENGINE AND TECHNOLOGYThe 750i direct injection V8 was seriously reworked for more power and torque. It's good for an impressive 330kW/650Nm output while sipping a scant 8.6-litres/100km. The 0-100kmh sprint passes in 4.8 seconds. Drive goes to the rear wheels through an eight speed auto with paddle shift.The rear suspension has air springs and is adaptive and self-levelling. Efficient Dynamics helps the 750 achieve these excellent performance and economy figures through regenerative braking, auto stop/start and a range of driving modes including EcoPro that allows the big Bimmer to coast using no fuel at all when the throttle is on over-run.DRIVINGThe BMW 7-Series was upgraded earlier this year with more of everything -- luxury, technology, performance and an average of 25 per cent better fuel economy across the range. The drive experience is enhanced with a dizzying array of luxury and driver assist technology, much of it centred around what BMW calls Connected Drive which networks things like internet, phone, satnav, audio and the hard disc.The 750 is one tick down from the V12 760 which, in reality, is over the top. Who needs a turbo V12 when there's the twin turbo petrol V8 with just as much oomph and lower fuel use? Not only that, the 12 doesn't sound as good as the V8. So, put that extra hundred grand back in your wallet and cough up your $281,100 for the 750i and be a happy Vegemite.The driver also has five drive options selected by pushing a button - Comfort, Comfort+, Sport, Sport+ and EcoPro. What we really like are the new seats which offer heating, ventilation and electric adjustment. And we give a big tick to the large info screen and metres of luxury leather interspersed with real timber inlays.VERDICTMain Competitors are the Benz S-Class, Lexus LS460 and 600 and the Audi A8. The big Bimmer comfortably outpoints all of them.BMW 750iPrice: from $281,245Warranty: 3 years roadside assistEngine: 4.4-litre 8-cylinder, 330kW/650NmTransmission: 8-speed auto, RWDThirst: 8.6L/100Km, CO2 199g/km

With a new distributor in Ateco Automotive, this year saw a model rationalisation and a reprice for the SsangYong Actyon ute. It now represents better value given the level of standard equipment and what you actually get for your money.We've tested the Actyon Sports model and have positive thoughts about the tough Korean workhorse. You'd certainly shop it against any of the other one tonne Japanese (Thai-built) utes because it stacks up against any of them. In fact, the Actyon is better than some of the more favoured offerings in the segment on a number of scores and not just price. Build quality for one.PRACTICAL DESIGNThe standard load tray liner springs  to mind, a 600kg payload is also worth keeping in mind and the tray shape lends itself to different applications because of its depth and width. They also include the tray lock into the remote central locking system. All good sensible stuff.The truck's front that looks as good as anything else on the market and is a decided improvement on the first hideous face on Actyon. The rear looks the same and is purely functional rather than a style setter.FEATURESKit inside the cabin is generous including aircon, cruise, a decent audio system, trip computer, leather wheel, power ancillaries, auto folding wing mirrors, Bluetooth phone and audio and a multi function wheel.UNDERNEATHBut it's under the skin where the Actyon really shines. Those in the know will only need to get down on their knees for a look under the rear to appreciate the level of engineering in this light commercial.For a start it has a robust ladder chassis complete with coil spring suspension all round. The rear axle is located by a multi-link system and feels robust enough to take 600kgs easily. It has a familiar look mechanically - possibly due to the influence of Mercedes-Benz years ago when it owned a share in Ssangyong.ENGINE AND TRANSMISSIONThe four cylinder engine is a 2.0-litre VM Motori unit with 114kW/360Nm outputs. There's a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed auto available (we had the auto) and it offers selectable 4WD by a dash mounted dial. Combined fuel consumption in this 2.0 tonne vehicle rates 7.9-litres/100km.DRIVINGWe clocked about 1000km in the Actyon and it served to verify our favourable impression of the vehicle. The cabin is large and easily takes five with plenty of rear seat legroom and large rear doors. We think the three star crash rating listed on ANCAP's website from 2010 may be out of date. It has much more safety kit than it did back then.The drive experience is good with better comfort than most of the competition thanks to the coil spring suspension. But the load height might be an issue for some. Engine performance is strong even when fully laden and there's minimal noise or vibration from anywhere.It sits on the road well limited by the height and suspension calibration and remember, this is a working truck, not a sports sedan. The interior is comfortable particularly the seats and we like the style of the fully soft feel dash (other manufacturers take note).VERDICTWould we put down our hard earned on the Actyon? Yes, and pocket the difference between it and the 'Japanese' one tonners which are no better at best. SsangYong Actyon TradiePrice: from $26,990Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel, 114kW/360NmTranmission: 6 speed manualThirst: 7.3L/100 km (RWD), 7.4L/100km (4x4) 

It’s only been a few months since Volvo launched the new V40 small hatchback -- a handsome little devil if ever there was one. Now, they’ve added to the line-up and brought back the Cross Country name -- all in one package in the new V40 Cross Country. And no, it’s not an XC, that moniker is reserved for more purposeful, dirt-capable Volvo SUVs.DESIGNIt’s a five seater with 60/40 folding rear seats for additional luggage space but you can configure it as a four seater using the centre armrest as a seat divider. It’s a V40 hatch in high heels with the ride height jacked up by about 40mm, sundry body cladding and `skid plates’ in a more rugged style. Other styling tweaks include a honeycomb grille, dual oval exhausts, some body hardware blackouts and LED driving lights. Inside, the Cross Country is equipped to V40 luxury standard with leather, an illuminated gearshift knob, adaptive digital display, theatre lighting and plenty more.PRICES AND MODELSTwo models are offered each with auto stop start and regenerative brake system. The D4 front wheel drive, 2.0-litre turbo diesel five cylinder at $47,990 and the all-wheel drive T5 turbo petrol five cylinder at $52,990. Both get a six speed automatic transmission but no paddle shift. Engine outputs are impressive with the diesel achieving 130kW/400Nm using 5.3-litres/100km and capable of an 8.3 second 0-100kmh sprint.The petrol cranks out 187kW/360Nm using 8.4-litres/100km and clocks a 0-100 sprint in 6.4 seconds. The desirable driver support pack with advanced driver assist systems costs an extra $5000.Among other things, the support pack has adaptive cruise control with auto brake, blind spot warning including cross traffic alert for seeing both sides when reversing, park assist pilot, active high beam and roadside info that recognises signs and informs the driver. It’s all really useful stuff that arguably should be included as standard kit.SAFETYHowever, plenty of advanced safety technology is provided like city safety with auto brake at speeds up to 50kmh, pedestrian air bag, forward collision warning, lane keeping alert and pedestrian and cyclist protection using auto brake. Five star crash safety is a given in the V40 Cross Country.DRIVINGWe had a crack at both models over some searching roads out of Canberra. First up was the T5 with Driver Assist Pack. It’s firmer than expected especially over rougher roads and has a distinct sporty hatch feel that is slightly incongruous in a Cross Country vehicle.But it goes like the clappers and has strident roll on acceleration virtually at will accompanied by a nice bark to the exhaust. Cornering is a strong point enhanced by the all-wheel drive and a torque vectoring system that applies the inside brake on a tight corner taken at speed. Both models get this feature and responsive electric power steering. We groped for a paddle shift on some tight roads but it’s not there -- which is annoying. The car has a stylish interior brimming with luxury kit that engages driver and passengers. Communication and entertainment technology is high end. Love the 18-inch alloys, 7-inch navi screen with voice control functions.The diesel offers a similar drive feel with a little less urgency but plenty of kick at most speeds and it’s just as quiet cruising as the petrol. We reckon it has a lighter feel too, which is probably traceable to the all-wheel drive system on the T5 petrol. We’d go the diesel every time – costs less, uses less fuel, just as refined in the cabin, plenty of performance and looks the biz. Volvo could be a tad optimistic with the pricing.VERDICTThe Cross Country is truly a 'soft roader' in that you can possibly drive it on gravel roads with better results than a standard road car.Volvo V40 Cross CountryPrice: from $47,990 (diesel)Warranty: 3 years, unlimited kmWeight: 1561kgEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel, 130kW/400NmTransmission: 6-speed-auto, FWDThirst: 5.3L/100Km, 139g/km CO2

They still don't offer a diesel RX but Lexus reckons it covers that base with the hybrid model and now, a four cylinder petrol variant called the RX270. The latter is unashamedly aimed at urban SUV buyers as it's a front wheel drive model but features most of the kit on other RX models including a six-speed auto

BMW introduced the current generation Z4 quite a few years ago now and they have moved to keep the Z4 pot boiling with a Gen II version of the classically styled two seater.Kick off point for the latest line-up is the Z4 sDrive20i at $79,900, with extra features adding up to as much as $9000 additional value compared with the previous Z4. The updated version now features an eight speed automatic transmission with paddle shift as standard in the two four cylinder variants along with launch control.Also included this time around is BMW’s ConnectedDrive system that is filtering through the entire BMW line-up featuring an 8.8-inch hi-res screen. It networks features such as the internet, music interface with a smart phone, telephony, voice control and navigation among other things.The optional packages, give a different take on Z4 ranging from classy to lairy and sporty. Possibly the most popular will be the M Sport with 18-inch light-alloy wheels and an aerodynamics package with large air intakes in the front and a rear bumper inlay painted Anthracite metallic. Something similarly sporty applies inside. The brutally quick Z4 sDrive35is has a version of the M Sport package as standard -- with 19-inch alloys.Drivers will no doubt appreciate the standard-fitted Driving Experience Control to select a configuration to suit the situation at hand and satisfy personal preferences. COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes can all be called up using the rocker switch on the centre console. As well as adjusting the responses of the engine and DSC stability system, the different modes also alter the shift characteristics of the automatic gearbox, the responses of the Servotronic function and the mapping of the electronically controlled dampers, if these items are specified. These modes allow the driver to choose from a selection of distinctive and clearly differentiated set-ups for the car. Other items of equipment fitted as standard are xenon headlights, air conditioning, a heated glass rear window, the Soft Close Automatic function for the boot lid and run flat tyres with a run-flat indicator.The new Z4 is slightly tweaked externally and cosmetically inside and is a hardtop-only these days, with a two piece lid that takes a scant 19 seconds to deploy at speeds up to about 40kmh. You’d be hard pressed to pick the exterior changes but Z4 has reshaped headlights with a reflective strip along the top edge, family bixenon headlights with white LED corona ring driving lights and an elongated kidney grille.A variety of paint finishes includes a stunning metallic orange called Valencia Orange and a number of interior packages are available to virtually customise the car's passenger compartment including Traction, Balance and M Sport.The three model local range consists of the Z4 sDrive20i, Z4 sDrive28i and the Z4 sDrive35is, all petrol turbos with four cylinders for the first two and a 3.0-litre straight six twin turbo in the latter. The 20i is good for 135kW/270Nm, a 6.9 second 0-100kmh sprint and 6.8-litres/100km.The 28i (same engine in different state of tune) is good for 180kW/350Nm, 5.5-seconds and 6.8-litres/100km. The fabulous 35is is good for 250kW/450Nm (500 on over boost), 4.8 seconds and 9.0-litres/100km. All pass EU6 emissions regulations and feature TwinPower technology _ direct injection, variable valve timing and lift and twin scroll turbocharging on the four bangers.We drove all three variants in sunny Queensland and to be honest, would be entirely satisfied with the entry 20i model. It has superb dynamics and plenty of punch for those legendary mountain road drives on a crisp Sunday morning. No matter which dynamic system you single out, the Z4 will not be found lacking.The 28 is a quicker and more engaging device because it has a lot more mumbo under the bonnet and is probably going to be the biggest seller. The 35i is a Boxster competitor with the required exhaust not and brutal acceleration but you have to concentrate harder as a result which can detract from the drive. The car looks sensational and we really liked the Traction package fitted to one drive car complete with orange leather inserts in the seats and dash.In terms of performance, the Z4 was and always has been a crackin' good drive regardless of the engine or transmission. High levels of driver engagement and sharp responses have been a hallmark of the model since way back.

This was a real surprise package as the XC60 all-wheel drive is one of our favourite medium size luxury SUVs. But this one is a front wheel drive and also ushers in a new turbo diesel engine.XC60 is one of Volvo's most successful models and they are making hay while the sun shines offering a swag of variants to cater for a wide range of tastes and budgets.ENGINE AND TRANSMISSIONThe test car had  a 2.0-litre, five-cylinder with 120kW/400Nm output. It joins the larger twin turbo 2.4-litre, diesel five in higher grade XC60s and a raft of other engine choices in the range. It has a six speed conventional auto transmission offering sequential mode on the stick shift as well as a sports function we didn't bother with.PRICE AND FEATURESThis one kicks off at a relatively accessible $55,490 and is, realistically, all you need in an XC60. Specification is relatively generous with the D4 boasting leather, reverse camera, rear park assist, power tail gate, electric parking brake, electric driver's seat, climate control, pollen filter, cruise and trip computer. Satnav is an option.SAFETYThe XC60 D4 scores the latest version of City Safety braking system, dynamic stability control, roll stability control, emergency brake lights, multiple air bags and really handy two stage booster cushion rear seats for little kids. They fold into the body of the normal seats.DRIVINGWe drove the car extensively over the holiday period and have to say it was the ideal family wagon suitable for pretty much anything we chose to do. The load space is big and it's a superbly comfortable touring vehicle as we found on a 2000km round trip.The engine is smooth and quiet and has plenty of pull across a wide operating range. We saw better than 6.5-litres/100km on a trip without driving for economy and four up. Mid-range grunt is strong.With coil over suspension, ride and drive feel is sporty despite being tallish and weighing in at around 1770kg. Even the turning circle is commendably small and we love the illuminated gear knob.We reckon no owners would venture any further off road than a trip to the country on dirt roads. The front-wheel drive will do that without any problems. And do it using less fuel and with the same degree of comfort and refinement as more costly variants. It looks a bit Plain Jane compared to higher spec' versions but being at the bottom of the XC60 pecking order mandates some compromises.VERDICTThe XC60 D4 is a handsome, right size family wagon that we'd own in a blink.Volvo XC60 D4Price: from $58,490Warranty: 3 years/unlimited kmEngine: 2.0-litre 5-cyl turbo diesel, 120kW/400NmTransmission: 6-speed auto; FWDThirst: 6.9L/100km , CO2 182 g/kmWeight: 1770kg approx.