Volvo V60 revealed

Estate version of stylish S60 breaks cover.

Auto Express Car Reviews

05th July 2010

Meet Volvo’s entry to the space race. This is the new V60, the estate version of the new S60, which Volvo proudly states is its most dynamic model ever.

Volvo argues that the larger V70 is the true load lugger in its range. So, at 430-litres, the V60’s boot is smaller than the 460- and 490-litre load spaces offered by the rival BMW 3 Series Touring and Audi A4 Avant.

Instead, the V60 has been designed with style in mind. There’s a rising shoulderline and falling window line to give the car an almost coupe-like appearance in profile.

The relatively short rear overhang and sloping rear windscreen add to the sporty looks, although these factors combine to reduce the boot space.

Practicality hasn’t been completely bypassed. The rear seat has a useful 40/20/40-split, and the front passenger seat can be folded completely flat.

The V60's engine range features the units from the firm’s recently revised engine line-up. This will include five petrols, ranging from 1.6 litres to the 3.0-litre straight six. There are three diesels to choose from – the D5-badged 2.4-litre five-cylinder unit, and D3 2.0-litre. These will be joined by a DRIVe 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine around 12 months after the car goes on sale.

The same safety kit is carried over from the saloon car range, including Pedestrian Detection and City Safety.

Expect the V60 to make its public debut at the Paris motor show on 30 September, before going on sale in the UK in late 2010.

For an alternative review of the latest Volvo S60 visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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9 Comments

Disappointing effort

I had been looking forward to the launch of the V60, but note with sadness that Volvo has turned out another 'estate' in the 'style-over-substance' mould, such as the Peugeot 407SW. If Volvo had added another 6" to the rear, then the boot capacity would have been reasonable, but as it stands the V60 is another missed opportunity. With its boot space of 645 litres behind the 2nd row of seats, I'll stick with my Zafira, thanks .

By Richard_Small on 6 July, 2010, 1:55pm

What an unflattering picture. That front overhang is just huge and will hit every kerb in town!

By mondeo_man on 6 July, 2010, 3:40pm

I like it

The V60 is intended to to be for style...if you need more boot space get a V70. Guess you missed the first line of the article?

Another unique product from Volvo who are pushing their style and motif and created a nice looking wagon that almost makes the sedan redundant.

By coladin on 6 July, 2010, 5:00pm

bit dissapointing

Shame its not the size of a A4 or BMW 3, as it stands it a good alternative to a focus/ Astra estate

By A1Jaguar on 6 July, 2010, 6:18pm

Good looking but.......

Definitely a looker but let's hope it's reliable in the long run. It seems to me that Volvos of recent years (essentially those developed under Ford) have not had the longevity that they used to have.

By hustin1 on 6 July, 2010, 6:36pm

omg styling

the front looks like cross between Opel Signia, Merc E-class and that grill is defo old skool Volvo. Tried too hard! Back is much much better looking but its like different car!

they could rather employ somebody from Ikea, or simply just continue old S60 lines with a bit sharper edges.

disappointed.

By hubabuba on 6 July, 2010, 10:05pm

Volvo design is so much like Saab.
Boring and looking back.
Can anyone tell me wht all these companys are making money since being sold off?

By toycollector on 8 July, 2010, 11:59am

Like the Beatles?

The Beatles spent their latter years denying their USP and trying to prove they were 'just a band' Now Volvo are trying to prove they are just like everyone else - style over substance.
There are plenty of well established manufacturers already providing that! If they are not going to provide sober, well designed, really practical vehicles - then why is anyone going to buy one?

By pajbse on 8 July, 2010, 9:21pm

V60 purpose

It would seem that the new V60 is the obvious successor to, and will serve the same purpose as, the V40. To my mind, that car remains one of the best all-rounders - handy for shopping trips and superbly comfortable on long journeys. The V60 seems well cut out to follow that tradition (and I have already indicated to the local agent that I intend to buy one)

By Fontes2 on 10 July, 2010, 12:01am

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