Volvo XC60
Used Car Review

Overview

Thinking about a premium family SUV that doesn’t compromise on safety or style? The Volvo XC60 might be exactly what you’re looking for. This mid-size luxury SUV combines Swedish design philosophy with cutting-edge technology, creating a vehicle that stands out in the competitive premium SUV market. It’s the perfect choice for families who want sophistication, safety, and practicality wrapped in one elegant package.

From first glance, the XC60 commands attention with its distinctive Scandinavian design language. The Thor’s hammer LED headlights and bold grille create an unmistakable presence that rivals like the BMW X3 or Audi Q5 struggle to match. Step inside and you’ll discover an interior that feels more like a premium lounge than a car cabin. The minimalist dashboard, dominated by a large touchscreen, reflects Volvo’s commitment to simplicity without sacrificing functionality.

Driving the XC60 is a serene experience that prioritises comfort and refinement over outright sportiness. The range of efficient engines, including hybrid options, delivers smooth performance while keeping running costs reasonable. It handles with precision and composure, making both school runs and long motorway journeys equally effortless. While it carries a premium price tag, you’re investing in Volvo’s legendary safety reputation, exceptional build quality, and a driving experience that makes every journey feel special.

What's the Volvo XC60 Like to Drive?

The Volvo XC60 offers a comprehensive range of powertrains designed for efficiency and refinement rather than raw performance. The B5 mild hybrid with 250 horsepower provides plenty of punch for everyday driving, delivering smooth acceleration and confident overtaking ability. The 0-60 mph sprint takes around 7.5 seconds, which feels brisk without being aggressive. For those wanting more power, the T6 and T8 plug-in hybrid variants offer up to 455 horsepower, transforming the XC60 into a genuinely quick family SUV.

Where the XC60 truly excels is in its driving dynamics and comfort. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you confidence on winding country roads while remaining light enough for easy parking. The standard air suspension on higher trims provides an exceptionally smooth ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease. Even on larger wheels, the XC60 maintains its composure and comfort. It’s not the sportiest SUV in its class, but it delivers exactly what most buyers want: a refined, comfortable, and capable driving experience that makes every journey pleasant.

Inside the Volvo XC60: Comfort & Features

Open the door and you’re immediately struck by the XC60’s exceptional interior quality and thoughtful design. The cabin feels airy and spacious, with premium materials used throughout. The dashboard centres around Volvo’s portrait-oriented touchscreen, which controls most functions with intuitive graphics and smooth operation. The seats are among the best in class, offering excellent support and comfort for long journeys. Front occupants get plenty of space, with generous headroom and legroom even for taller passengers.

The overall ambience is one of understated luxury and Scandinavian simplicity. Soft-touch surfaces, genuine wood trim, and high-quality leather create a premium environment that feels welcoming rather than clinical. Road noise is exceptionally well suppressed, making conversations easy at motorway speeds. The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivers concert-hall quality audio. Standard equipment is generous, including dual-zone climate control, smartphone integration, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The XC60’s interior successfully combines luxury, practicality, and that distinctive Volvo character that sets it apart from German rivals.

The Volvo XC60 remains a compelling choice in the competitive premium SUV segment, successfully combining Scandinavian elegance with practical family functionality. Its interior sets new standards for design and material quality, while the comprehensive safety technology provides genuine peace of mind. The driving experience prioritises comfort and refinement over sportiness, which suits the target audience perfectly.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Volvo XC60?

The Volvo XC60’s running costs reflect its premium positioning, but several factors help keep them reasonable. The mild hybrid B5 engine delivers real-world fuel economy around 35-40 mpg, which is competitive for a substantial SUV. The plug-in hybrid T8 model can achieve over 100 mpg when driven primarily on electric power, making it particularly attractive for company car users due to low benefit-in-kind rates. Insurance groups are moderate for the class, typically falling between groups 30-40.

The initial purchase price is substantial, starting around £45,000 for the base model, but this includes extensive standard equipment. Service intervals are reasonable at 12,500 miles or annually, and Volvo’s reputation for reliability helps avoid unexpected repair bills. Depreciation is fairly typical for the premium SUV segment, though hybrid models tend to hold their value better. car finance options are widely available, often with competitive rates through Volvo’s own finance division. While the XC60 won’t be the cheapest SUV to run, its combination of efficiency, reliability, and strong residual values makes it a sensible long-term proposition.

How Practical Is the Volvo XC60?

For a mid-size SUV, the XC60 offers impressive practicality that works well for family life. The 505-litre boot is a good size for the class, easily accommodating the weekly shopping, sports equipment, or holiday luggage. The rear seats split 40:20:40 as standard, allowing you to carry long items while still seating two passengers. Clever touches like bag hooks, a 12V socket, and optional power tailgate make loading easier.

Inside the cabin, you’ll find plenty of storage for everyday items, including large door pockets and a spacious centre console. The rear seats offer good space for adults, with decent legroom and headroom, though the sloping roofline means very tall passengers might feel slightly restricted. Where the XC60 particularly excels compared to other used Volvo cars is in its family-friendly features like integrated booster cushions and comprehensive safety systems. Its compact exterior dimensions make it easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces, while the high seating position gives excellent visibility. For most families, the XC60 strikes an ideal balance between size, practicality, and ease of use.

The Volvo XC60 stands out in the crowded premium SUV market by offering a genuinely different approach to luxury family transport. It wraps exceptional safety technology, stunning Scandinavian design, and impressive hybrid efficiency into a package that feels both premium and practical. While it may not be the sportiest or cheapest option available, it excels in the areas that matter most to families: comfort, safety, and day-to-day usability.

You choose the XC60 because you want an SUV that reflects your values and priorities. Its commitment to safety, environmental responsibility, and understated elegance makes every journey more enjoyable. It’s perfectly suited for modern family life while offering enough luxury and technology to feel special. If you’re looking for a premium SUV that offers something genuinely different from the usual German options, the Volvo XC60 should be high on your consideration list, especially with flexible financing options available.