I test drove the Volvo XC60 B6 AWD. The Volvo XC60 2024 is a global best-selling model, recording the highest sales volume both domestically and overseas. The fact that it still has excellent audio, along with the marketability that sets the benchmark for its competitors, and that it scored a perfect score in the recently strengthened crash test is noteworthy.
The first-generation Volvo XC60 model was first unveiled at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. The first-generation XC60 is the first mass-produced car to be equipped with the low-speed collision-avoidance system, which is provided as standard in most mass-produced cars currently sold. Volvo City Safety supports warnings, deceleration, and stopping below 50 km/h.
The second-generation XC60 was launched globally in 2017 and also launched domestically in the same year. Even though it has a 90mm longer wheelbase, sophisticated interior and exterior design, and the latest ADAS equipment, including B&W audio, it is introduced at a price that is about 20 million won cheaper than in Europe, so it is necessary to wait for delivery at this point.
The Volvo XC60 was the only vehicle in its class (luxury midsize SUV) to score perfect scores in all categories in the U.S. IIHS crash test last December. IIHS increased the speed and weight of impactors to ensure the safety of increasingly larger and heavier vehicles, and strengthened second-row safety standards for women and children.
The XC60’s exterior design boasts Volvo’s unique sophisticated atmosphere. The exterior of the XC60 attracted attention led by Korean designer Lee Jeong-hyeon. Although it has entered its 8th year of release, it is comparable to competing cars that have recently undergone a complete change. The dynamic touch of the front and rear ends is attractive.
The XC60 has a body with a total length of 4710mm, a total width of 1900mm, a total height of 1645mm, and a wheelbase of 2865mm. It has a physique that is close to the standard in its segment, without lowering the overall height for a sleeker look or increasing the overall length to emphasize the large body. These design elements also extend to the interior space.
The first and second row space is sufficient to be used as a family SUV. In particular, the headroom is generous and the sunroof has a good open feel, resulting in high passenger satisfaction. In addition, the only independent seat in its class is applied to the second row, providing excellent seating and comfort. On the other hand, sliding and reclining functions are excluded.
One of the reasons Volvo avoids second-row reclining is to ensure the safety of second-row passengers in the event of a collision. If you recline the backrest too much when riding in the second row, the seat belt will not support your body. In this case, passengers in the first row are also at risk. There is room for reconsideration of the tendency to prefer SUVs with highly tilted backrests.
The XC60 is loved for its interior luxury, including Nappa leather seats with good seating comfort based on Ultimate Bright, ventilation, massage function, crystal gear knob, wood inlay, 1410W Bowers & Wilkins audio, and user-friendliness such as advanced T Map 2.0 and music streaming service. It is the highest level.
The XC60 B6 combines a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a mild hybrid system to produce a maximum output of 300 horsepower (5,400 rpm) and a maximum torque of 42.8 kgm (2,100-4,800 rpm). The curb weight is 1965 kg, the acceleration from a stop of 100 km/h is 6.2 seconds, and the domestic combined fuel efficiency based on 255/45R20 is 9.4 km/l (8.4 in the city, 11.0 at high speeds).
The driver’s seat position is close to the ideal configuration. The spacious green house provides good visibility both forward and to the sides and rear, which is advantageous for securing visibility while driving. The seat has a large range of up and down height adjustments, and is pulled closer to the steering wheel, supporting a tight driving posture even for small female drivers.
Noise and vibration in daily driving are effectively blocked. The electric motor adds power at low revs, where turbo lag is prone to occur, and provides smooth acceleration in everyday driving. Noise and vibration are very low even in idling stop and restart situations. Completeness has improved significantly with the application of MHEV.
The XC60’s suspension setup pursues both softness in everyday driving and rigidity at high speeds. In daily driving, it is a soft setup that places importance on ride comfort, but it feels somewhat stiff in the mid-to-high speed range. Although it is not a variable suspension, the driving balance is good with high-performance tires.
When making partial changes, double-laminated sound-insulating glass was applied and sound insulation was strengthened, improving quietness compared to the initial model. It is also worth noting that the ability to handle the unevenness of the road surface transmitted to the suspension has improved. It is interesting that in sub-zero weather, warm washer fluid is sprayed to prevent the nozzle from freezing.
In situations where you are driving quickly around a curved road, the driving assistance system intervenes quickly. However, it appears to be more agile than expected in the roundabout, and partial torque vectoring is supported through the inner brake. In a situation where the tire leaves the ground, the seat belt is pulled very, very tightly.
The performance difference between B6 and B5 appears in the high-speed range. The test car was the B6 with 300 horsepower, and the B5 with 250 horsepower, showing a difference in power when overtaking at high speeds and when driving at ultra-high speeds. What’s interesting is that although the B6 has plenty of power, its fuel efficiency when driving at high speeds is not much different from the B5.
The B&W sound system is equipment that stands out in its class. An official said that it was not easy to secure a competitive price even if it was included as standard in domestic models, as it is a very expensive additional option by European or American standards. 15 speakers and 1410W output satisfy most users.
Settings that allow you to easily switch between adaptive cruise control and pilot assist seem to be becoming a market standard. On national roads where there is a lot of steering, it is more stable to directly control the steering. The ADAS system is well-completed in the latest model, and acceleration and deceleration have become smoother compared to the early model.
cheek
The Bo XC60 B6 is considered the standard for luxury midsize SUVs. As it represents the same segment as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 3 Series, and Volkswagen Golf, its level of completion in various sectors is excellent. Additionally, its safety philosophy that satisfies enhanced crash tests makes it impossible not to recommend it as a family SUV.
