Tuesday, June 21, 2011

2011 Volvo XC60 Review

2011 Volvo XC60
The 2011 Volvo XC60 is instantly recognizable as a Volvo SUV thanks to its large front grille, which is similar to the one used by its larger sibling, the Volvo XC90. Exterior features include For 2011, the Volvo XC60 adds a new trim level: the 3.2 R-Design. Note that the XC60 also gets a new infotainment system for 2011.5; models produced after November 2010 feature the same system seen in the Volvo S60.

Standard equipment is another XC60 advantage, with even base models coming equipped with Bluetooth, dual climate control and satellite radio. Naturally the XC60 also expresses Volvo's emphasis on safety. The 2011 Volvo XC60 small luxury crossover is available in four trim levels: 3.2, 3.2 R-Design, T6 and T6 R-Design.

The XC60 T6 adds a turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, 18-inch wheels, power passenger seat and leather upholstery.

The Multimedia package adds a 12-speaker Dynaudio surround-sound audio system, a navigation system and a back-up camera. Finally, the Technology package adds adaptive cruise control, a driver attention alert system, a collision warning system and a lane-departure warning system.

Stand-alone options include 18-inch alloy wheels (3.2 only), adaptive xenon headlights, keyless ignition/entry, blind-spot warning system, wood inlay for the center stack, a dual-screen rear entertainment system and dual integrated rear booster seats.

XC60 3.2 and 3.2 R-Design models are powered by a 3.2-liter inline-6 that generates 240 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque.

Stability control, antilock brakes with brake assist, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and whiplash-reducing front seats are all standard on the 2011 Volvo XC60. Hill-descent control is standard on all-wheel-drive models. Other safety options include a lane-departure warning system, a blind-spot warning system, a driver alert system, a heartbeat monitor that can detect intruders inside the vehicle and a collision warning/braking system.

The station wagon is a Volvo staple, yet as of late even Volvo has shown signs of abandoning traditional wagon designs in favor of taller utility vehicles.

Sporty T6 models get a turbocharged 3.0-liter in-line six, now making 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet. The XC60's crossover shape provides lots of passenger comfort, and a cargo-friendly setup as well. In addition to all the conventional safety features, and good safety ratings, the XC60 offers a few active-safety tech features you won't find everywhere. City Safety wraps together the sensors used in various other high-tech safety aids in the Volvo XC60, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Driver Alert Control, Distance Alert, and the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).

Heated seats are part of a $1,000 package; adaptive cruise, distance alerts, lane-departure warning, and collision warning are bundled for $1,695.