Anything a compact SUV can do, the all-new 2015 Volvo V60 Sportswagon can claim to do better. It’s faster, it comes with more standard comfort and safety features, and it corners in a sporty manner.
Volvo has long been associated with wagons and is amongst only a few manufacturers still offering one. The V60 competes with the Audi A4 allroad, the BMW 3 Series Touring and the Subaru Outback.
The 2015 V60 is available in several models, from the entry T5 Drive-E FWD up to the T6 R-Design AWD.
The Volvo V60 offers all the utility of a similarly sized SUV. This sport wagon boasts 43.8 cubic feet (692 liters) of cargo capacity. To make that space as versatile as possible, the rear seats are split in three, meaning you can carry four people and longer items at the same time.
All of that capability is cloaked in an attractive package. The V60 is based on the handsome S60, so looks similar up to the B-pillar. The smooth, flowing lines are very different from the rigid, boxy Volvos of the past.
The design inside is equally as clean and modern. There’s a very European feel and the materials are all high quality.
Both front and rear seats are highly comfortable. And while there are not acres of space in the second row, most adults should find it adequate.
The infotainment system is uniquely Volvo and rests on a floating centre stack with extra storage behind it. The radio controls are more difficult than they should be and the display screen is small by today’s standards, but the info is clear and easy to read.
The base 2.0-litre turbo I4 in the V60 T5 Drive-E produces an impressive 240 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The technologically advanced and fuel-efficient Drive-E family of engines will eventually replace the other engines in Volvo’s line-up.
All-wheel drive models come with either Volvo’s proven 2.5-litre turbo I5, cranking out 250 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, or the 3.0-litre turbo I6, turning 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. The performance T6 R-Design increases its inline-six’s power to 325 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque.
On the road, the V60 is refined and composed. It handles a lot like the S60 sport sedan and stays flat and planted through hard corners. With next to no body roll, this family hauler is a true joy to drive.
Despite its playful nature, the V60 doesn’t forget its Volvo roots and therefore obviously comes with a host of safety features. Volvo’s City Safety technology is standard and exceeds expectations. Other optional gadgets include blind spot monitoring, active cruise control with full stop capability, as well as a pedestrian, cyclist and car detection system that includes auto braking.
What do you think about the 2015 Volvo V60 Sportswagon? Will we see customers returning to the forgotten wagon segment?
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