2015.5 Volvo XC60: updated tech, understated design
The 2015.5 Volvo XC60 updates its timeless design with new app-connected dashboard tech. CNET takes a look.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The Volvo XC60 gets a mid-year update with the arrival of the 2015.5 update.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The new model gains a 3G connected Volvo Sensus Connect infotainment system, bringing its dashboard tech into parity with the competition.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The midsized SUV boasts enough space for up to five souls and a significant amount of cargo.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
Like any modern Volvo, the XC60 is packed to the gills with safety tech.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The exterior aesthetic is understated. It's sporty, but doesn't draw attention to itself.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
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.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
Our example's Platinum package adds a number of creature comforts, including a power lift gate.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The XC60's suspension and chassis are tuned for comfort, but the SUV is still very capable of deftly juking around obstructions and potholes.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
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.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The Volvo's instrument cluster is a digital display with three customizable, color-coded themes.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The new Sensus Connect infotainment center features new Web-connected apps and telematics.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The navigation system features a well sorted voice-command system and the Volvo Mapcare update service.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
One of the most underappreciated parts of the XC60's infotainment system are the excellent steering wheel controls.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
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.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The screen isn't touch sensitive, but the interface is designed to work smoothly with the physical controls.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
Being a Volvo, the 2015.5 XC60 is packed with standard and optional safety tech.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The blind spot information system alerts the driver to vehicles in adjacent lanes with an LED.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
I found the Volvo's driver aid systems to be a bit overzealous. The SUV seemed to be always beeping at me for something.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The forward pre-collision alert and full-range adaptive cruise control systems are powered by a front aiming radar sensor in the grill.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
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.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The XC60 is available in both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The T6 AWD model is powered by a twin-scroll turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. Power is stated at 300 horsepower.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
Power reaches the wheels via a single-option six-speed automatic transmission.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
Optional $500 sport seats look nice and are supportive, but seem a bit out of place in this comfortable cruiser.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
The XC60 isn't quite "luxurious" but feels like a premium vehicle -- nearly on par with, but less expensive than, the competition from Audi.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
Along with the Platinum package, the standard audio system is upgraded to a 12-speaker Harmon Kardon system.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
Vertical LED tail lights are easy to see and integrate well with the rest of the Volvo's design.
2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
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.