Fans have been kept on their toes ever since the lengthy teaser campaign, more so when the very revealing image of the second-generation Volvo XC60 was leaked. Finally, the wait is over, as details for the premium crossover have been revealed.
For starters, the 2018 Volvo XC60 carried over the great qualities of the XC90’s design, creating a smaller package which some believe works pretty well on the new model. The interior cabin of the XC60 is as opulent as its predecessor and is installed with a four-zone climate control. It also supports both Android and Apple CarPlay integration. The improvements on the XC60 are quite a breath of fresh air considering the challenges it will face in its segment.
What’s pretty surprising about the XC60 is that it is fitted with the same T8 Twin Engine setup as that of the bigger SC90 that will carry out the performance that it deserves. An electric motor works in conjunction with the turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter engine to produce a total output of 407 horsepower enough for the XC60 hybrid to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 kph) in a matter of 5.3 seconds.
The XC60 is on the same SPA platform as that of the “90” series – bigger models to be exact – and will soon be pitted against the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and the Jaguar F-Pace. An array of Drive-E four cylinder engines, including the 190-hp D4, 235-hp D5 and 254-hp T5, will power the XC60. Also, a warm T6 configuration with 320 hp and 295 lb.-ft. (400 Nm) of torque will also be made available for the new crossover.
Just like any other Volvo, the XC60 is also packed with a safety kit. Among these is an optional semi-autonomous driving system that is said to reach speeds of up to 80 mph (130 kph) on “well-marked roads”, taking care of acceleration, braking and steering. Also, for new drivers who are not that confident with their driving skills, the XC60 can also be ordered with extra driver’s aids that will automatically apply the brakes and automatically steer the car away from any impending accident even when the object or person is on its blind spot.
The all-new Volvo XC60 is set for production by mid-April in Volvo’s Torslanda Plant in Sweden and is expected to grace the market by summer of this year.
