Volvo V60 2.0 D5
Sleek styling is a big hit – at what cost to practicality?
Think of a Volvo estate and a large box on wheels probably springs to mind. For decades the firm’s legendary load carriers have been delivering class-leading space and practicality at the expense of fashionable good looks.
That’s set to change with the new V60, which aims to add a dose of desirability to the brand’s sensible estate offerings. Using the firm’s S60 sports saloon as a starting point, the newcomer promises sharp driving dynamics, rakish looks and a greater dash of versatility.
Bosses have high hopes for the newcomer, which is being pitched head-to-head with the premium estate car elite from BMW, Audi and Mercedes. So, does the V60 have what it takes to win this particular space race?
On looks alone, the Swede stands a good chance of success. Designers claim the V60 was penned to incorporate sleek coupé cues. With its sweeping lines and low roof, the newcomer is easily the most eye-catching of our quartet. There are some neat details, too, including the bold LED tail-lamps.
Sadly, the sporty exterior takes its toll on the Volvo’s load- carrying credentials. Open the steeply raked tailgate and you’ll discover only 430 litres of space – a full 60 litres less than the Audi. Fold the 40/20/40 split rear bench flat and you’ll liberate only 1,246 litres – incredibly, that’s 59 less than in a standard VW Golf hatchback!
At least the V60’s boot includes some clever storage gadgets.
The highlight is a neat divider that folds out of the floor and features an elasticated strap to secure shopping bags. Elsewhere, the Volvo’s cabin scores highly for its accommodation and style. The front seats are supremely comfortable, while rear passengers get decent head and legroom. The swooping dashboard looks great and is logically laid out, but the centre console mounted controls for the sat-nav, car set-up and stereo are fiddly and slow-reacting to use.
There are no complaints about the amount of kit. Range-topping SE Lux Premium models include leather seat trim and sat-nav – you’ll pay extra to have these features on the German trio.
The Volvo has to give best to its rivals in terms of pace, though. Its 2.0-litre five-cylinder engine is surprisingly tuneful, but the powerband is narrow, with acceleration trailing off abruptly above 4,000rpm.
As a result, it took 9.6 seconds to sprint from 0-60mph – two seconds behind the Mercedes. On the plus side, it matched the Audi in the mid-range. And away from the test track, the V60 impresses with its supple ride and excellent refinement , making it an accomplished long-distance cruiser.
Direct steering and decent grip combine to boost the feeling of agility through corners, but the soft suspension set-up means there’s plenty of body roll. Keen drivers will also be disappointed by the lack of feedback through the major controls and the vague action and long throw of the six-speed manual gearbox.
The new V60 is stylish, well equipped and refined, so it certainly has plenty to offer. The competitive £30,010 price tag certainly makes it a tempting package, but its lack of outright space and driver appeal count against it.
Details
Chart position: 4
WHY: Volvo has abandoned its traditional boxy estate car roots. Bosses promise coupé-like styling and sharp driving dynamics for the all-new V60.
