2018 Volvo XC60 Pros vs Cons
What's New for 2018?
The 2018 Volvo XC60 was completely redesigned for the model year, so there are many new features to discuss. Chief among these features is the new engine options and the fact that one is a plug-in hybrid variant. Many once-optional features are now standard, and the base trim is now known as the Momentum.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 Volvo XC60 – The Pros
1. Contemporary and Well-Designed Interior
The 2018 Volvo XC60 might be a slightly peeled-back version of its big sister, the XC90, but it does not skimp on the interior construction. The cabin looks refined and well-thought-out in terms of its design. The dash is carefully and intuitively laid out, the materials all look to be high-quality and expensive, and the infotainment system looks as high-tech as it really is.
2. Excellent Engine Options
You can select between the T5's 2.0-L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, the T6's turbo- or supercharged variant of the T5's engine, and the T8's plug-in hybrid, which combines the T6's engine with a rear-mounted electric motor. The T5's engine generates 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, which is great for a base engine in this class. The T6's supercharging engine garners a cool 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid pairing gets a solid 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. Regardless of which you choose, you're getting a high-powered engine.
3. Numerous Luxury Features
Volvo lets you know you're riding in luxury with how many features it slaps onto the XC60. Some of these exciting features include standard all-wheel drive, Volvo On Call with remote engine start, leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a 9-inch touchscreen display.
4. A Plug-In Hybrid Variant
The new T8 plug-in hybrid variant gets a massive amount of power (a grand total of 400 hp) and slightly better fuel economy than the T5 and T6. It might not appeal to those bent on getting the most fuel efficiency, but the T8 does get decent gas mileage while generating a powerful performance.
5. Four-Zone Climate Control
The 2018 Volvo XC60 has four-zone climate control on the line-topping Inscription level. While the dual-zone works great on the lower trim levels, the four-zone climate control is truly exceptional. It adds a luxurious level of comfort with its even distribution of airflow to all of the vehicle's occupants.
6. Adaptive Air Suspension
The XC60's adaptive air suspension is an optional stand-alone add-on feature that really helps to boost the ride quality. It can be adjusted for damping and body height, and firmness changes based on how cushioned or sporty the driver wants the vehicle's performance to feel.
7. Plenty of Legroom
Whether you are sitting up front or in the rear, there is plenty of legroom to go around. Even those over 6 feet tall can allow themselves to relax in the back seat, which also offers sufficient head, shoulder, and hip space. This is a vast improvement over last year's model.
8. Easy-to-Use Physical Controls
The physical controls located along the dash and that are mounted onto the steering wheel are all easy to use. They are clearly labeled and intuitively placed well within the driver's reach. All buttons and knobs function without an issue.
9. Great Smartphone App Integration
The 2018 Volvo XC60 has fantastic smartphone app integration. It functions well with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Smartphone app integration comes standard across the lineup and is surprisingly very easy to use, even if you are not terribly skilled at using a smartphone.
10. The Optional Bowers and Wilkins Audio System
If you're a music junkie, the optional Bowers and Wilkins audio system is a must-have add-on. This is a stand-alone option, so it can be added to any trim level. The system features a whopping 15 speakers that are well-placed throughout the cabin and crank out crisp, clear sounds.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 Volvo XC60 – The Cons
1. Lacks Some Sportiness
The 2018 Volvo XC60 offers a great performance as a daily driver but lacks some of the sportiness of a few competitors. It just doesn't have the exciting get-up-and-go power as other luxury crossovers.
2. Some Noise Issues
There are some noise issues that occur on the 2018 Volvo XC60. While it manages to produce less road, wind, and engine noise than the XC90, the cabin still isn't well-insulated enough from the intrusion.
3. Small Cargo Area
The XC60 suffers from a lack of cargo space, as do some of its competitors. The 29.7 cubic feet of space that you get with all seats in place simply doesn't cut it when you need to load a hefty amount of groceries. The cargo area can be maxed out to 68.7 cubic feet of space when the rear seats folded down. While this is a vast improvement on the cargo space of the outgoing model, it is still not best-in-class.
4. Not Much Small Item Storage
There is a noticeable lack of small item storage. Passengers will have to find creative ways to store their books, tablets, and other personal items. It appears that Volvo has sacrificed storage for design appeal, as some automakers do with luxury models.
How it Stacks up to the Competition:
2018 Volvo XC60 vs. 2018 Audi Q5
The 2018 Audi Q5 is an extremely quiet and comfortable luxury vehicle that has numerous tech features and standard AWD. However, it, too, lacks cargo space. Also, there is only one engine option available.
2018 Volvo XC60 vs. 2018 Jaguar F-Pace
The 2018 Jaguar F-Pace might be the new kid on the block, but it has a sporty supercharged V6 engine that is fun to drive. It also has the steering and handling of a sports sedan. On the downside, it doesn't have a refined ride quality.
Conclusion
The 2018 Volvo XC60 might not be as sporty as the F-Pace and other competitors, but it is loaded with wonderful features. The array of engine options provide opportunities for customization, and the interior looks well-designed. Overall, the XC60 is worthy of consideration if you are shopping around for a luxury crossover this year.
