Safety features and functions are a ‘given' with a Volvo and the XC60 probably exceeds everything the brand has to offer with their other models. From the standard all-wheel drive which automatically distributes the power to the wheels needing it most; to the stability, traction and bodyroll controls to the usual array of airbags and anti whiplash head restraints, they are all there.
The new City Safety system, which stops drivers running into the back of stationary or slower moving vehicles, is a standard fit item. It seems to work well as we jousted with inflatable cars using the new XC60s at the media launch.
The only drawback is the system, which operates at speeds below 19mph, doesn't recognise pedestrians or two wheel riders because they do not offer enough mass for the three lasers to consistently detect them. Still it's a worthy effort to bring more, but unobtrusive, safety technology to market.
Of the three engines available from launch next week, two 2.4-litre, five-cylinder diesel units which are tuned to give either 163PS or 185PS for the D5 specification and a 3.0-litre, straight-six 285PS petrol, the two oil-burners will take virtually all the XC60 sales.
The D5 is expected to be the marginally most popular but during testing in Scotland there appeared to be very little to choose between them. The real-life fuel economy of 33mpg was roughly the same and so was the engine response.
My view is go for the lower power output and save some money in these cash-strapped times. The diesel units sound a little ‘course' or ‘gruff' and produce vibrations which transfer to the pedals and steering wheel. The latest German or French diesel power units are more refined.
Both these units were well matched with the Geartronic automatic transmission and this would be my ideal choice over the six-speed manual gearbox. But going ‘automatic' means less mpg, more purchase cost and more company car tax.
For the record the two five-cylinder diesel engines officially deliver 37.7mpg on the combined fuel cycle when fitted with standard six-speed manual transmissions, and emit 199 g/km of CO2. The British-built T6 petrol engine returns 23.7mpg with 284g/km of CO2.