How do you differentiate an old SUV from a newer one? It's usually down to a combination of handling and ride. Just to give you a few examples, the GLC is more comfortable than the GLK-Class that it replaced. The same goes for the Cadillac XT5 or the Kia Sportage.
While Volvo has done everything it can to keep models like the XC60 and S60 sedan relevant, most of the money has gone into the development of the XC90.
The notable exception is under the hood, where the 2016 version of the XC60 features the same all-new generation engines as its big sister. Gone are all the big 5- and 6-cylinder engines, replaced by more efficient 2-liter ones.
The XC60 T5 has the same type of 240 hp powertrain as the GLC 300 and X3 xDrive28i. Meanwhile, the T6 big brother adds a supercharger on top to give the engine a similar punch to a V6.
In its latest review, Consumer Reports says the ride is one of the biggest problems with this SUV. In their words, "Volvo also hasn't figured out that a car can have a composed ride while still absorbing bumps... It's kind of crazy that a Chevy Camaro SS rides better than this luxury SUV."
That's harsh, but it hasn't stopped many people from buying a Volvo. Part of the XC60's appeal is the safety aspect. While the IIHS compared even the 2016 Mustang and Camaro to a deathtrap, the Volvo SUV is a fortress, scoring maximum points.
Volvo currently is where Audi used to be a decade ago. They have established themselves as luxury car makers, but lack that final edge. Even though CR doesn't say anything about this, we find the automatic gearbox in this SUV slow to react. Overall, you can get 90% of this car in a Mazda CX-9 and have extra room in the back.
The notable exception is under the hood, where the 2016 version of the XC60 features the same all-new generation engines as its big sister. Gone are all the big 5- and 6-cylinder engines, replaced by more efficient 2-liter ones.
The XC60 T5 has the same type of 240 hp powertrain as the GLC 300 and X3 xDrive28i. Meanwhile, the T6 big brother adds a supercharger on top to give the engine a similar punch to a V6.
In its latest review, Consumer Reports says the ride is one of the biggest problems with this SUV. In their words, "Volvo also hasn't figured out that a car can have a composed ride while still absorbing bumps... It's kind of crazy that a Chevy Camaro SS rides better than this luxury SUV."
That's harsh, but it hasn't stopped many people from buying a Volvo. Part of the XC60's appeal is the safety aspect. While the IIHS compared even the 2016 Mustang and Camaro to a deathtrap, the Volvo SUV is a fortress, scoring maximum points.
Volvo currently is where Audi used to be a decade ago. They have established themselves as luxury car makers, but lack that final edge. Even though CR doesn't say anything about this, we find the automatic gearbox in this SUV slow to react. Overall, you can get 90% of this car in a Mazda CX-9 and have extra room in the back.