2015.5 Volvo XC60: updated tech, understated design

The Volvo XC60 gets a mid-year update with the arrival of the 2015.5 update.

The new model gains a 3G connected Volvo Sensus Connect infotainment system, bringing its dashboard tech into parity with the competition.

The midsized SUV boasts enough space for up to five souls and a significant amount of cargo.

Like any modern Volvo, the XC60 is packed to the gills with safety tech.

The exterior aesthetic is understated. It's sporty, but doesn't draw attention to itself.

We were able to fill the XC60's vast cargo area with 17 cases of wine without laying the seats flat or removing the optional locking cage.

Our example's Platinum package adds a number of creature comforts, including a power lift gate.

The XC60's suspension and chassis are tuned for comfort, but the SUV is still very capable of deftly juking around obstructions and potholes.

The interior is as understated as the exterior's design. None of the elements draw attention to themselves, but the materials are all high quality and have a premium feel.

The Volvo's instrument cluster is a digital display with three customizable, color-coded themes.

The new Sensus Connect infotainment center features new Web-connected apps and telematics.

The navigation system features a well sorted voice-command system and the Volvo Mapcare update service.

One of the most underappreciated parts of the XC60's infotainment system are the excellent steering wheel controls.

With this scroll wheel and the surrounding buttons, every part of the Sensus Connect infotainment can be accessed without removing a hand from the steering wheel.

The screen isn't touch sensitive, but the interface is designed to work smoothly with the physical controls.

Being a Volvo, the 2015.5 XC60 is packed with standard and optional safety tech.

The blind spot information system alerts the driver to vehicles in adjacent lanes with an LED.

I found the Volvo's driver aid systems to be a bit overzealous. The SUV seemed to be always beeping at me for something.

The forward pre-collision alert and full-range adaptive cruise control systems are powered by a front aiming radar sensor in the grill.

Meanwhile, lane-keeping alert and pedestrian and cyclist safety systems are fed data by cameras in the windshield. These cameras also scan signs along the road, displaying speed limit and hazard data in the instrument cluster.

The XC60 is available in both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations.

The T6 AWD model is powered by a twin-scroll turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. Power is stated at 300 horsepower.

Power reaches the wheels via a single-option six-speed automatic transmission.

Optional $500 sport seats look nice and are supportive, but seem a bit out of place in this comfortable cruiser.

The XC60 isn't quite "luxurious" but feels like a premium vehicle -- nearly on par with, but less expensive than, the competition from Audi.

Along with the Platinum package, the standard audio system is upgraded to a 12-speaker Harmon Kardon system.

Vertical LED tail lights are easy to see and integrate well with the rest of the Volvo's design.

The 2015.5 XC60 T6 AWD starts at $42,400. For my money, however, I'd look first at the less expensive and more fuel-efficient T6 Drive-E FWD model.