2018 Volvo V60 Cross Country: An Overview
The 2018 Volvo V60 Cross Country embodies Volvo's commitment to combining rugged capability with refined Scandinavian design and uncompromising safety. It’s a versatile wagon that offers a raised ride height, all-wheel drive, and protective body cladding, making it a compelling choice for those seeking more adventure than a traditional sedan or wagon, without venturing into full SUV territory.
Highlights
- Engine: The V60 Cross Country is powered by Volvo's robust 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged Drive-E four-cylinder engine, known as the T6. This engine delivers a potent 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration and confident passing power. It's mated to an 8-speed Geartronic automatic transmission that offers smooth shifts and efficient operation.
- Safety Features: Volvo is renowned for its safety, and the 2018 V60 Cross Country is no exception.
- City Safety: This is a standard, low-speed collision avoidance system that automatically applies the brakes if a potential collision with a vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist, or large animal is detected at speeds up to 30 mph.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: BLIS monitors the areas around the vehicle that are not visible in the mirrors and alerts the driver if a vehicle is in the blind spot. Cross-Traffic Alert warns of approaching traffic when reversing out of a parking spot.
- Lane Keeping Aid: This system helps prevent accidental lane departure by providing gentle steering assistance to keep the vehicle within its lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Queue Assist: ACC maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically slowing down or stopping as needed, and then resuming the set speed when traffic clears. Queue Assist enhances this functionality in stop-and-go traffic.
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection: An advanced version of City Safety that can detect and react to pedestrians and cyclists.
- Trims: The 2018 V60 Cross Country was primarily offered in two well-equipped trims:
- V60 Cross Country Momentum: This trim serves as the foundational offering, still packed with premium features. It typically includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, and a sophisticated infotainment system with a 7-inch display.
- V60 Cross Country Inscription: The Inscription trim elevates the luxury and comfort with upgrades such as ventilated front seats, real wood interior inlays, and an upgraded Harman Kardon audio system. It often includes more advanced driver-assistance features as standard or readily available options.
- Notable Aspects:
- Raised Ride Height and All-Wheel Drive: The "Cross Country" designation signifies a higher ground clearance (approximately 2.5 inches more than the standard V60) and standard all-wheel drive, enhancing its ability to handle rougher roads, light off-roading, and slippery conditions.
- Robust Exterior Styling: Distinctive protective cladding around the wheel arches and lower body panels, along with unique front and rear bumper designs, give the V60 Cross Country a more rugged and adventurous aesthetic.
- Spacious and Versatile Interior: Despite its wagon form factor, the V60 Cross Country offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior with supportive seating and a respectable amount of cargo space for its class.
- Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a compliant and comfortable ride, especially when combined with the slightly taller tire sidewalls.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2018 Volvo V60 Cross Country generally translates to a refined and safe experience. Volvo vehicles are known for their durability, but as with any premium vehicle, maintenance costs can be higher than non-luxury brands. Regular servicing at a Volvo dealership or a qualified independent mechanic is crucial to keep the turbocharged and supercharged engine and complex all-wheel-drive system in optimal condition.
Maintenance: Expect routine oil changes, filter replacements, and brake services. The Drive-E powertrain, while efficient, requires specific maintenance practices. Timing belt replacement is typically recommended at specific mileage intervals. Tires, given the vehicle's performance capabilities and all-wheel-drive system, will also be a significant ongoing cost.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for the Volvo V60 Cross Country will likely be on the higher side due to its premium brand status, advanced safety features, and performance capabilities. Factors like your driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels will influence the exact cost.
Potential Considerations
- Infotainment System Usability: While functional, Volvo's Sensus infotainment system from this era, with its button-heavy center console and menu-driven interface, can have a learning curve and may not feel as intuitive or responsive as some newer, touchscreen-centric systems.
- Rear Seat Space: While comfortable for front passengers, the rear seat space, particularly legroom, can feel a bit cramped for adults on longer journeys, especially when compared to some larger SUVs or wagons.
- Fuel Economy: While the T6 engine offers strong performance, its fuel economy might not be as impressive as some competitors in the compact luxury segment, especially when driven aggressively.
- Off-Road Prowess: While the raised ride height and AWD are advantageous for light off-roading and inclement weather, the V60 Cross Country is not a hardcore off-roader. It’s best suited for gravel roads and snowy conditions, not challenging terrain.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Volvo V60 Cross Country is a compelling choice for those who desire the practicality of a wagon with the added capability and style of an all-road vehicle. Its potent T6 engine, extensive suite of advanced safety features, comfortable ride, and distinctive Scandinavian design make it a sophisticated and versatile option in its segment. While some interior space and infotainment system aspects might not be class-leading, its overall appeal as a safe, capable, and stylish crossover wagon remains strong.
