2016 Volvo XC60 Reviews

Chris Riley road tests and reviews the 2014 Volvo XC60 D4 Kinetic.

Volvo had to think very hard about the XC60 update because fixing something that its customers don't think is broken is a terrific way to drive them away. This is a linchpin model for Volvo around the globe, and accounts for 40 per cent of their sales here. So while the revised XC60 is just one in a huge campaign of

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. 

Canny motorists are facing a shopping bonanza as car makers start slashing prices to make way for new models. But it's not only outgoing models going cheap - look out for end-of-year sales as well.Any time a carmaker trumpets a new model, these shoppers are there ready to make a financial killing by buying up the old model. Look for sales at particular times of the year. June is traditionally a strong month for squeezing extra savings out of a dealer though, with a buoyant car market and fierce competition, anytime towards the end of any month can deliver a bonus.End of year sales are popular. Dealers always want to sell but the months of November and December provide a chance to discount cars built in the current year. Fighting this are car buyers who want a car built in the new year to preserve resale value. Here's some deals but be prepared for more as the calendar year draws to a close.HOLDENDeep Purple is no longer a rock band - it's Holden's new colour that is available on a range of cut-price “Z-Series” Commodore sedans, utes and wagons. The new colour is the same as Holden's iconic show car, the Efijy. Different models in the Z-Series line-up get different equipment levels but, as an example, the base Omega automatic is $41,990 but the Z-Series edition costs $39,990.The bonus is that the Z includes a heap of extras within that price, including leather upholstery, 18-inch wheels, rear camera and sensors, leather steering wheel and chrome door frames. The SV6 ute adds 19-inch alloys, carpet mats and leather seats for $38,490, down $1000 on the plane-Jane SV6.The discounts on the VE Holden Commodore range precede the launch early next year of the VF Commodore models. Holden is also running out the Barina five-door manual hatch at $16,490, a saving of $500.TOYOTAYou'll have to do some legwork here. The new Corolla is on sale and some dealers still have stocks of the old model. Officially, there's no discount on the outgoing model though some dealers - predominantly NSW and Victoria - have extra stock and have advertised a $18,990 price, $1000 off the list price. Note that the cheapest 2013 Corolla is also $19,990. Toyota WA says customers should discuss pricing direct with their dealer.It's not only the Corolla that may offer savings. The RAV4 gets updated early next year and though there's no official price, dealers will consider offers. On top of that, Toyota has zero per cent finance on Camry, Camry Hybrid and Aurion until the end of the year.HYUNDAIThere's a lot of previous-model stock available from Hyundai and buyers can make big savings if they're not chasing the latest car. These include old-stock i30 hatchbacks with $2000 off the normal price and previous Santa Fe SUVs for up to $3000 off.But there are also current models. The big one is the $13,990 drive-away price on the i20 three door which saves $2500. A similar discount is on the five-door i20. The i40 wagon is now from $29,990 driveaway, a saving of about $3000, and the sedan model with automatic transmission is also from $29,990, saving about $2500.Hyundai's popular baby SUV, the ix35, is now from $27,990 driveaway for the Active version, a saving of $1120, while other ix35 variants have been reduced by $500.MITSUBISHIThe new Outlander SUV arrives November 18 so Mitsubishi is sweeping out current stock. The "Enhancement Pack" model is an LS version with leather seats, heated front seats and an electric-adjust driver's seat. It has Bluetooth, 18-inch alloys with a full-size alloy spare, six airbags for the front-wheel drive version (up from two) and a cabin styling pack with bright trim to the door handles, console panel and rear door trim.Prices start at $28,990 drive away for the LS front-wheel drive model with five-speed manual transmission. The normal price is $29,340 plus on-road costs so the saving is about $4500. But for buyers who want the new model, register on Mitsubishi's website and there's the chance to win a $1000 Westfield shopping voucher and 15 per cent off accessories for the new Outlander. If that's not tempting, Mitsubishi also has 0.9 per cent finance until the end of this month.SUBARUThe 2012 run out has just started for Subaru which has chopped up to $5000 off three models. It replaces its Liberty and Outback in early 2013 as a mid-life makeover that includes upgrades to trim specifications. There is an all-new Forester also due about February. So the deals are now on the table.The Outback 2.5i manual is usually $37,490 plus on-road costs (say, $5000) but is being rolled out the showroom door for $35,990 including all on-road costs. The same axe has lobbed on the Forester X which is now $32,990 drive-away including leather-faced seats, alloy wheels and fog lights.The normal retail price is $30,990 without the extras and without on-road costs. Subaru is selling the Liberty 2.5i sedan manual for $31,990 drive away with leather seats, electric driver's seat and reverse camera. The car normally sells for $32,990 plus on-road costs.FORDKuga Trend $35,490 drive away (normally $38,990 plus on-road costs) and the upmarket Titanium is now $41,490 drive away, previously $44,990 plus all on the road charges. The Kuga is to be replaced with a new model in early 2013.Focus Ambiente hatch now $19,990 drive away (normally $20,290 plus costs). The Mondeo Zetec hatch is $33,990 with all costs (usually $37,740 plus on-road fees) and Falcon's XR6 Turbo is down from $46,235 plus costs, to $43,490 drive away.KIAThere's a new Sorento SUV so the outgoing model has a $2000 gift voucher attached to its normal retail price.VOLKSWAGENIs running out stocks of the current Golf VI to make way for the Golf VII due early next year. Volkswagen Australia has set the price of the current Golf 77TSI manual at $20,990 including metallic paint and all drive-away costs. This is a saving of about $5000.The Golf Wagon 90TSI with DSG auto, metallic paint and all drive-away costs is now $29,990, saving about $3500. Note that for small-car wagon buyers, Volkswagen has not confirmed a wagon version of the new Golf. If you want this shape, this could be your last chance.VOLVOThe Swede is clearing out its 2012 stock by adding value rather than chopping the price tag. The S60 and V60 entry-level models now come with the upmarket Teknik pack valued at about $4500. But if you specify the Teknik model, Volvo will automatically give you the R-Design pack (valued at $3000) for free.The same deal applies to the XC60 SUV. There's also a deal on S60 or V60 from the dealer's existing stock. Volvo will include free scheduled servicing for three years or 100,000km.

Audi Q5 2.0 TDI and Volvo XC60 D5 Teknik go head-to-head in this comparative review.

You've got to hand it to Volvo they are producing some very desireable cars these days. The five-seat, mid-sized XC60 off roader is Volvo's top-selling model in this country and it's not difficult to see why. It looks good, goes well and excellent value for the money, with lots of built in safety features.VALUELeather and climate controlled airconditioning are standard, along with auto lights and wipers, power operated front seats, rear parking sensors and a power-operated tailgate. The latter might sound like overkill, but once you have had one you won't want to give it back.Other features include swivel headlights, with wash system and Bluetooth has been updated to include audio streaming, with an eight-speaker audio, with a 7 inch colour monitor and DVD player. Prices for XC60 start at $54,990, while the D5 Teknik model is priced from $65,990.TECHNOLOGY The 2.4-litre twin-turbo diesel engine has undergone significant upgrades for 2012. These changes have increased power form 151kW to 158kW while torque jumps 20Nm to 440Nm (same torque output as the top of the line turbocharged T6). Despite the increase in both power and torque, fuel consumption has been improved by 10 per cent  now 6.9 litres/100km. CO2 emissions have dropped from 201g/km to 183g/km. The improvements are the result of a lighter crankshaft and camshafts. The impeller in the coolant pump has been redesigned and contributes to reduced fuel consumption.ECONOMY The turbo diesel is paired with a 6-speed Geatronic auto with the option to change gears manually. Claimed fuel economy has improved from 7.1 to 6.9 litres/100km. With a 70 litre fuel tank that gives it a range of just over 1000km. We were averaging 8.5 litres/100km over 700km. The reduction in fuel consumption means that diesel models qualify as low emission vehicles and benefit from the recent changes to the Luxury Car Tax which has brought the price down.SAFETY The XC60 earns a maximum five stars for safety and now boasts a rear reversing camera standard equipment. It comes with a full compliment of active safety systems, including City Safe which is designed to help prevent rear-enders by automatically applying the brakes if a collision is imminent. Blind spot awareness cameras are also fitted as standard with this model.VOLVO SC60 D5 TEKNIKPrice: $65,990Warranty: 3yrs/unlimited kmService: 12 months/15,000kmResale: 55 per centEngine: 2.4-litre twin-turbo diesel, 158kW/440NmEconomy: 6.9L/100kmTransmission: 6-speed automaticCO2: 183g/kmSafety: 5-star rating, 6 airbags, ESC, ABS, EBD, EBA, TC BODY 5-door, 5-seatDimensions: 4628mm (L), 1891mm (W), 1672 (H), 2774 (WB), 230 (Clearance) WEIGHT 1819kgWheels: 7.5 x 17"

MORE safety and creature features have revved up the Volvo XC60 range to prevent a mid-life sales lull.The smallest of the Volvo SUVs ranks fourth behind the comparably sized Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Lexus RX, but it's still an important model for the company as their biggest-selling SUV. So the Swedes have thrown a bunch of new kit into it and given the popular diesel more oomph.This should renew interest in the car and, with a smaller all-wheel-drive still some time away, it should help ward off challenges from smaller urban-biased SUVs such as the Q3, X1 and newcomer Range Rover Evoque.VALUEThere are three 2.4-litre, five-cylinder turbo diesel XC60s with six-speed automatic transmissions from $60,990 for the base model, $65,990 for the Teknik we tested to $68,990 for the R-Design. The first SUV in this category was the Lexus RX back in the late '90s, but it doesn't have a diesel variant and the hybrid RX450h is way more expensive starting at $96,900 up to $108,900.The BMW X3, introduced in 2004, has two diesels starting at $62,200 for the 2.3-litre four-cylinder and $74,900 for the three-litre six-cylinder, both with eight-speed auto. The two diesel Q5s start at $61,700 for the two-litre to $73,714 for the three-litre V6, both with seven-speed autos.Volvo has improved value by adding a rear camera, powered tailgate and new infotainment system to all XC60s, while the Teknik and R-Design models get Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), satnav with voice control, and Active Bending Lights (ABL).The Teknik may cost $5000 more than the base model, but it adds a powered front passenger seat, the bending lights with washers, satnav and BLIS which would cost $10,450 if ordered separately.TECHNOLOGYA lighter crankshaft and camshafts in the 2.4-litre twin-turbo diesel engine and a more efficient cooler have resulted in a slight power boost from 151kW to 158kW while torque is up a significant 20Nm to 440Nm. In power and torque, the XC60 slots in neatly between the four-cylinder and six-cylinder Q5 and X3.At the same time, the XC's economy has improved 10 per cent to 6.9L/100km and CO2 emissions are down 18g/km to 183g/km. That is better than the smaller-capacity Audi, but not as good as even the six-cylinder BMW. Inside, the biggest improvement in technology is the new multimedia centre with a 5cm larger screen (now 18cm), DVD instead of CD, 12 speakers with Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound and Bluetooth now with audio streaming and voice control on phone calls. These features are expensive extras in the German SUVs.SAFETYNeed we say that safety is a key factor of all Volvos? The XC60 has a five-star crash rating and now gets added crash prevention technology with lights that follow the car around a corner, sensors that alert drivers to a vehicle in their blind spot and a rearview camera which should be mandatory on all SUVs.It also includes City Safe which comes to a full stop if the car detects an obstacle in its path when driving at under 30km/h. For an extra $4175 you can get the optional third-generation Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) which includes Queue Assist, Pedestrian Detection and Full Auto Brake. This system will automatically adjust the car's speed in traffic and avoids collisions with pedestrians.DESIGNExcept for the Lexus, all models in this category are scaled-down versions of the larger models that pre-dated them. Rarely does this lead to good design. The X3 and Q5 look like a Biggest Loser contestant who has shed a lot of bulk but has unwanted skin hanging around.The XC60 looks fit and handsomely slender; perhaps it did a lot of sit-ups as it shed its weight. From the rear, the body outline is almost sexy with a slender waist and curvy hips. In its mid-life years, it doesn't really need an external makeover, so only the R-Design models get a few external flourishes and bigger wheels.DRIVINGThe five-cylinder diesel engine is not the quietest or smoothest around. Together with the six-speed auto that seems in two minds about changing up for economy and hanging on for power, the powertrain tends to groan when cruising and sound dissonant under full power.But when it all comes together, there is rapid progression with hardly turbo lag that hounds many single-turbo diesels. Even though it doesn't look it, the XC60 is the heaviest of these SUVs at 1819kg yet it feels frisky and light, only feeling its weight when turned abruptly such as dodging urban potholes.Handling is not as precise as the Q5 or X3, but ride is better, although not as plush or forgiving as the RX. The new technology proved a little fickle: The Bluetooth audio streaming function was recalcitrant at times, asking to find the device on some occasions and pairing up quickly on others, while BLIS kept identifying phantom cars.As for the City Safe crash protection system, it came to a dramatic automatic halt as I rapidly approached the rising electric garage door. It came as a bit of a shock, but at least I know it works. Accommodation is high and wide with firm but fair seats, plenty of headroom and an airy feel.VERDICTThe Volvo may not be as sharp as a road tool as the Audi and BMW, but it gains votes for safety, ride, styling and features.VOLVO XC60 D5 TEKNIKPrice: $65,990Warranty: 3yrs/unlimited kmService: 12 months/15,000kmResale: 55 per centEngine: 2.4-litre twin-turbo diesel, 158kW/440NmEconomy: 6.9L/100kmTransmission: 6-speed automaticCO2: 183g/kmSafety: 5-star rating, 6 airbags, ESC, ABS, EBD, EBA, TC BODY 5-door, 5-seatDimensions: 4628mm (L), 1891mm (W), 1672 (H), 2774 (WB), 230 (Clearance) WEIGHT 1819kgWheels: 7.5 x 17"

AS a "baby boomer" I admit to a frugal upbringing leading to a wardrobe of trousers with deep pockets. I live a life just short of camping out at the Two-Dollar Shop - waiting for the specials - and one with a fascination of finding value for money. My house is full of stuff I don't need - but, by gum, that stuff was cheap! So I was delighted to find the Volvo XC60 T6 R-Design which, though recently the subject of a $5340 price rise, gets a staggering list of standard features that puts it streets ahead of its rivals. Value for money? You bet!VALUEThis is the XC60's key to success - a big, safe and family-friendly wagon that's made by the seriously safe car company, Volvo. Value is all through the XC60 range but we're here with the T6 R-Design that is the most expensive of the model line-up. It costs $75,990 but includes City Safety - that automatically stops you doing a low-speed kiss with the car in front - plus adaptive cruise control with auto braking, pedestrian detection so you can identify your wife at the shops, rear camera and sensors, bending lights, 12-speaker surround sound with Bluetooth audio streaming, sat-nav and so on.DESIGNThe tagline "boxy, but nice" is old hat as Volvo picks up a restrained fluid shape ending in distinctive S-shaped tail lights. It looks good and works even better thanks to the R-Design's big wheels and aggressive body kit. Inside it's sports seats in leather and upgraded instruments and trim items. The rear hatch is electric, making it easy for people of smaller stature to access the luggage area. Two boosters are within the rear seat cushion making this perfect for travelling with children and the rear seat splits 40-20-40 to accommodate lots of cargo shapes. Though crammed with goodies, the execution is Swedish subtle, user friendly and appears to be very well made.TECHNOLOGYThe unusual bit here is the inline engine which is stretched transversely between the front wheels. Inline sixes are inherently smooth - call BMW to the witness stand - and the 3-litre turbocharged Volvo is no exception. It's also sparkling and reasonably fuel efficient. It only comes with a six-speed sequential auto which permanently drives the front wheels with an "on demand" coupling to the rear. The R-Design has sports suspension and sits 15mm lower than its sisters, gets water-repellent windows, auto wipers but - strangely - no auto headlights. Other high-tech highlights are within the extensive, and mind-boggling, safety package listed below.SAFETYThis has third-generation Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist (allows you to tail the car in front), blind spot detection, pedestrian detection (find people and avoid them) and Full Auto Brake (to stop you before you stop yourself). ACC allows the car to maintain a safe distance to the car in front using a radar sensor and digital camera integrated with the cruise control and - in its latest guise- offers full braking capability. City Safety will, for speeds up to 30km/h, automatically stop the car when it detects an object ahead. There's also six airbags, electronic stability and traction control and even roll stability control.DRIVINGAt 1846kg dry, it's not a small car but it's certainly quick and even nimble. The engine is smooth, responsive and quiet and perfectly suits this prestige-segment SUV which perhaps has Buckley's chance of seeing dirt under its tyres. Though it gets sports suspension with stiffer springs and different dampers, the ride is never harsh. The benefit is tidy handling. It holds its line well through the bends and really it's only the dullness of the steering feel and extra body roll of the tall wagon that will slow you down. Best of all, it works so well in conditions as varied as long country runs, twisty roads and city congestion. But it's not really suited to the dirt.VERDICTAt this price, it's a winner. It has the style to twist the heads of passers-by, the comfort to be a luxury car and the flexibility to suit the family.at a glanceVOLVO XC60 T6 R-DESIGNPrice: $70,650Warranty: 3 years, roadside assistResale: 55%Service interval: 15,000km or 12 monthsEconomy: 10.5 l/100km; 251g/km CO2Safety equipment: six airbags, ESC, ABS, EBD, EBA, TC.Crash rating: 5 starEngine: 224kW/440Nm 3.0-litre 6-cyl, turbo-petrolTransmission: Six-speed automaticBody: 5-door, 5 seatsDimensions: 4627 (L); 1891mm (W); 1713mm (H); 2774mm (WB)Weight: 1846kgTyre size: 235/60R18, space-saver spare

One of Volvo's most popular models, the right size XC60 comes in various flavours including the entry level T5 front wheel drive version we have in the carport for the next three months. It is attracting plenty of attention.VALUEThis one goes for an affordable $54,990 and is all you really need in a compact, luxury SUV. Alternatives are smaller and possibly more expensive in the luxury market. The price has jumped $800 in the last month but Volvo has added nearly $2500 worth of goodies including a rear view camera and a power operated tailgate.High-performance multimedia is now standard in the T5 and the large info' screen is full colour. The Bluetooth has been updated to include audio streaming. The vehicle itself is handsomely equipped offering all manner of luxury including leather, climate control, cruise, rain sensor wipers, auto headlights, park assist and 17-inch alloys.TECHNOLOGYThe recently-released T5 engine is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol GTDi (Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection) unit producing 177kW/320Nm. The all-aluminium 16-valve engine meets the latest Euro 5 emissions standards and in the XC60 T5 consumes 8.7L/100km with 207g/km of CO2. A 0-100km/h sprint takes 8.1 seconds.A dual clutch six-speed Powershift transmission offers extremely quick and smooth gear changes and improved efficiency.DESIGNLooks great inside and out with family Volvo styling similar to the chic S60 and V60. Tail light treatment is outstanding and the front looks assertive and stylish. Room for five inside and plenty of load space. Love the centre stack and entire dash layout - they do a good job at Volvo. Hypoallergenic materials = sneeze free.SAFETYTicks all the boxes and scrubs up against all-comers even without optional features.Gets City Safety to prevent rear enders, emergency flashing brake lights, roll over stability control and multiple air bags among an impressive array of safety kit. Five stars no problem.DRIVINGHas a firm, controlled ride and satisfying response from the 2.0-litre boosted engine. Handles as well as a sporty wagon offering up sharp steering, that excellent six-speed double clutch manumatic transmission and strong brakes. Gets off the line quickly, is smooth and quiet most of the time and is actually a really engaging drive.VERDICTCan't see why you'd bother with the all wheel drive models. The diesel might appeal on the basis of more torque and frugal thirst. This is the one we'd get.VOLVO XC60 T5Price: $54,150Warranty: 3 years, 100,000km, roadside assistResale: 69% Service Interval 15,000km or 12 monthsEconomy: 8.7 l/100km; 207g/km CO2Equipment: six airbags, City Safety, ESC, ABS, EBD, EBA, TC.Crash rating: 5 starEngine: 177kW/320Nm 2-litre turbo-petrolTransmission: Six-speed dual-clutch autoBody: 5-door, 5 seat, wagonDimensions: 4627 (L); 1891mm (W); 1713mm (H); 2774mm (WB)Weight: 1740kgTyre size: 235/65R17Spare tyre: Space-saver.

Reality check time. Do you really need all wheel drive on your new SUV? Probably not....That's why sales of two wheel drive SUVs are growing fast as buyers analyse exactly what they want from their vehicle and realise they don't need all wheel drive - ever. Volvo has just introduced a two wheel (front) drive XC60 T5 model to its medium SUV range and apart from being the most affordable at $54,150, it is also one of the most enjoyable.TECHNOLOGYIt's because the T5 has Volvo's excellent new GTDi 2.0-litre, direct injection, turbo petrol four cylinder under the bonnet. This is similar to the engine Ford will (eventually) put in Falcon. This engine is the strong and silent type generating a handy 177kW/320Nm, the latter at a readily accessible 1800rpm.It uses a new type of turbo made from sheet metal that is light and boosts efficiency. Drive goes to the front wheels via a six-speed Powershift `manumatic' dual-clutch transmission. It rates as one of the best transmissions in a mainstream car right now with smooth operation and no hesitation as well a fuel economy benefits.SAFETYSafety is of the highest order offering five star protection thanks to a slew of features and systems designed to mitigate a crash or avoid one in the first place. Volvo is (still) a leader in this area and the XC60 T5 has plenty to offer, more if you are prepared to pay for it.Even in basic form, you get `City Safe' that helps avoid hitting a pedestrian, roll over mitigation, stability control, a reinforced chassis, rear park assist and multiple air bags among the safety inventory. A number of optional packages will elevate primary and secondary safety to a much higher level as is the case with luxury equipment.DESIGNThe vehicle is good looking and offers a high level of comfort and surprisingly good dynamics given its height and 1740kg weight. Seats for five are provided with a decent load space in the rear. It will tow up to 1800kg with a braked trailer.DRIVINGWe found the standard spec' test car to be totally acceptable in the comfort department with leather upholstery, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, an impressive audio system with Harman Kardon speakers, climate control, new centre stack, cruise, rain sensor, auto lights and 17-inch alloys. Start ticking the boxes and you can customise your T5 to your hearts content - well almost.We wouldn't bother. At 8.7-litres/100km from the GTDi engine, the benefit of turbodiesel begins to come into question. We actually bettered this figure with freeway and urban driving. Performance is strong across a wide rev range and the engine is practically imperceptible at any speed. It's good for an 8.1 second 0-100kmh sprint and passes Euro 5 emissions regulations.VERDICTWe have driven a few examples of the XC60 in the past including the diesel and this one is the pick unless you really must have all wheel drive for towing a boat up a ramp. So what you have here is an alternative to the other prestige European mid-size SUVs or wagons at a considerable saving.VOLVO XC60 T5 2WDPrice: $54,150Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo-petrol, 177kW/320NmTrans: Six-speed dual-clutch automaticEconomy: 8.7-litres/100kmCrash rating: 5 stars