2009 Volvo XC60

Volvo has used the "XC" designation for years now, to denote its most capable “cross country” wagons—the ones that have more ground clearance than their mates, and can therefore undertake some SUV-like tasks. Like other automakers these days, Volvo craves the attention of younger shoppers. That's the primary purpose for the shapely new XC60, which aims to attract a new group of buyers, different from those who continue to favor the traditional XC70 wagon.

Design and Safety

Scandinavian design melded with a "holistic interpretation," according to exterior designer Doug Frasher, noting that Volvo is "interested in the way people respond to nature." Developers shunned "disparate elements," preferring that "it should all come together as a whole."


"Design makes the XC60 the boldest crossover in its segment," said project director Lars Blenwall, adding that it's "as sporty and exciting" as the compact C30 hatchback, "but far more capable."


Safety is uppermost, which is a long-standing Volvo tradition. As part of the holistic approach, the XC60 is loaded with safety features, many described by acronyms: Collision Warning with Auto Braking (CWAB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Distance Alert, Driver Alert Control, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Information System (BLIS). When the Drowsy-Driver Alert is activated, an audible signal and a coffee cup icon appear when sensors detect evidence of inattention. Dynamic Stability Control and Roll Stability Control are standard.


Newest feature of the lot is called Volvo City Safety, a system that uses infrared, laser-based technology to minimize damage in low-speed traffic incidents. As the XC60 approaches a stopped or slowed vehicle, and sensors determine that the driver is failing to brake, the City Safety system will apply the brakes abruptly, at about half the available force, just before the vehicles collide. At 9 to 18 mph, this helps reduce the effect of an impact that occurs. At 2 to 9 mph, it may keep any impact from happening. Volvo says this could reduce whiplash injuries by 50 percent. Because the brakes are applied so abruptly, no audible or visual warning is given to the driver. City Safety can be shut off manually, or overridden by aggressive steering. It does not react to objects smaller than cars.

AWD, T6 Performance

All XC60 wagons sold in the U.S. will be the T6 trim level, with the latest generation of Haldex all-wheel drive. Beneath the hood sits a transverse-mounted, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that develops 281 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 295 pound-feet of torque at 1500 to 4800 rpm. The six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission features driver-adaptive operation. Towing capacity is 3,300 pounds, and Trailer Stability Assist is built-in.


Ground clearance is a helpful 9.1 inches, and the chassis has been stiffened to compensate for added height. The standard Panoramic moonroof has a fixed rear section and an opening front panel; but unlike other such moonroofs, these panels are laminated.