2010 Volvo XC60: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 Volvo XC60 is this Swedish manufacturer's first compact SUV. XC60 is a five-passenger crossover SUV that shares elements of its basic design with Volvo's V70 and XC70 station wagons. Initial XC60 models will come in a single T6 trim level and have standard all-wheel drive. Their sole powertrain teams a 281-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Due later in the model year is a lower-priced 3.2 trim level that comes with front- or all-wheel drive. The 3.2 has a 235-hp 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Also due is a sporty R-Design model with a sport suspension, specific wheels, and interior trim. Maximum towing capacity is 3300 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Standard is Volvo's new City Safety accident-avoidance feature, which automatically activates the brakes at low speeds to avoid or reduce the severity of an imminent rear-end collision. Leather upholstery and power front seats are standard. An optional Climate Package includes heated front and rear seats, heated windshield washer nozzles, and rain-sensing wipers. The Multimedia Package includes an uplevel audio system, navigation system, and rearview camera. The Technology Package includes adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, driver fatigue alert, and Volvo's Collision Warning, which readies the seat belts and maximum braking force if sensors detect an unavoidable crash. The Convenience Package includes a power tailgate and front- and rear-obstacle detection.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact SUVs are luxury SUVs that are compact in size. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. This segment is one of the industry's fastest-growing categories.

Our Best Buy in this class is the Infiniti EX35. We have no Recommended picks in this class.

New for 2010 are the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class and Volvo XC60.