2018 Volvo XC60: A Sophisticated and Safe Midsize Luxury SUV
The 2018 Volvo XC60 represented a significant step forward for Volvo's popular midsize luxury SUV, arriving with a completely redesigned exterior and interior, along with a host of advanced technology and safety features. It aimed to compete directly with established players in the segment by offering a compelling blend of Scandinavian design, cutting-edge safety, and refined driving dynamics.
Highlights
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Powertrain Options: The 2018 XC60 was offered with Volvo's renowned 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine, badged as T6. This powertrain delivered an impressive 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration and confident highway merging. It was paired with an 8-speed Geartronic automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard. For those seeking even more power and efficiency, the T8 Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) variant offered a combined output of 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque, with the added benefit of electric-only driving for short distances.
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Advanced Safety Features: Safety is a hallmark of Volvo, and the 2018 XC60 was no exception. Key safety features included:
- City Safety: This suite of technologies automatically applies the brakes to help avoid or mitigate collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals at low speeds. It includes features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane keeping aid.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Steer Assist: This system alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots and, if equipped, can provide steering assistance to help prevent an accidental lane change into an occupied lane.
- Run-off Road Mitigation: If the XC60 detects it's unintentionally drifting off the road, it can intervene by tightening the seatbelts and applying braking to help steer the vehicle back onto the intended path.
- Cross Traffic Alert with Autobrake: When reversing out of a parking space, this system detects approaching traffic from the sides and can automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent.
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Trim Levels: The 2018 Volvo XC60 was available in three distinct trim levels, each offering a progressively luxurious and feature-rich experience:
- Momentum: This was the entry-level trim, providing a well-equipped and stylish package with a focus on core Volvo safety and comfort features.
- R-Design: Aimed at those seeking a sportier aesthetic and feel, the R-Design featured unique styling elements inside and out, including sport seats, a sport-tuned suspension, and larger wheels.
- Inscription: The pinnacle of luxury, the Inscription trim elevated the XC60 with premium materials, more sophisticated interior accents, and a broader array of comfort-oriented amenities.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Scandinavian Design: The 2018 XC60 showcased Volvo's distinctive "Thor's Hammer" headlights and a clean, elegant exterior design that exuded sophistication. The interior followed suit, with a minimalist and driver-focused layout featuring high-quality materials and a large central touchscreen.
- Sensus Infotainment System: The intuitive Sensus infotainment system, controlled via a 9-inch vertical touchscreen, offered access to navigation, media, climate controls, and smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto).
- Comfortable and Quiet Cabin: The XC60 was praised for its serene and comfortable interior, providing an excellent environment for both short commutes and long road trips.
What to Expect
Owning a 2018 Volvo XC60 generally translates to a refined and reassuring experience. The driving dynamics are geared towards comfort and stability, making it a relaxed cruiser. The interior is a sanctuary, with excellent build quality and supportive seating that contribute to a premium feel.
Maintenance for a luxury SUV like the XC60 typically involves scheduled servicing at recommended intervals to ensure optimal performance and longevity. While Volvos are known for their reliability, it's advisable to budget for regular oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Specialist Volvo dealerships or reputable independent mechanics familiar with the brand are recommended for maintenance.
Insurance costs for a luxury SUV like the XC60 will vary based on your location, driving record, coverage choices, and the specific trim level. Given its advanced safety features and luxury positioning, insurance premiums might be slightly higher than for more mainstream vehicles. It's always recommended to get quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best rate.
Potential Considerations
While the 2018 Volvo XC60 is a highly commendable vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Infotainment System Learning Curve: While generally intuitive, the touchscreen-centric infotainment system might require a brief adjustment period for some users who are accustomed to more physical buttons.
- Rear Seat Space: While adequate, the rear seat space might be slightly less generous compared to some competitors in the midsize SUV class, particularly for adults on longer journeys.
- Fuel Economy (for T6): While the T6 engine offers strong performance, its fuel economy, while not poor, may not be as competitive as some of its smaller-displacement, turbocharged rivals, especially in city driving. The T8 plug-in hybrid addresses this concern significantly.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Volvo XC60 successfully positioned itself as a strong contender in the midsize luxury SUV segment. It impressed with its sophisticated Scandinavian design, a powerful yet refined powertrain, and an unwavering commitment to safety through its comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. The comfortable and quiet interior, coupled with a user-friendly infotainment system, made it an attractive option for families and individuals seeking a blend of luxury, practicality, and peace of mind. Despite minor considerations regarding rear seat space and initial infotainment familiarity, the XC60 stood out as a well-rounded and highly recommendable luxury SUV.