Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017) Review
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017) At A Glance
It’s worth remembering that the Volvo XC60 first arrived at the same time as the original Nissan Qashqai, which is so often credited with creating the family SUV market. If the Nissan did that, the Volvo XC60 set the tone for all premium mid-size SUVs to follow, and it still makes a sound used prospect compared with an Audi Q5, its German rival the BMW X3, or Britain’s Land Rover Freelander 2. Read on for our full Volvo XC60 review.
The Swedish company has made an art of building stylish yet practical and safe cars, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Volvo XC60.
It’s certainly a striking design and really stands out still as a used car, which is no easy feat when the competition includes the Audi Q5 and Land Rover Freelander.
It’s less boxy and bulky than the larger Volvo XC90 and the sharp front end was the inspiration for facelifts of the convertible Volvo C70 and the Volvo C30 hatchback.
Although it looks substantial, it’s actually fairly compact – shorter than a Ford Mondeo for instance, so parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces isn’t as tricky as you may think.
It’s a good family car with a spacious and well laid out interior, along with a large boot. It’s also well equipped as standard, especially when it comes to safety equipment.
The Volvo XC60 comes with a system called City Safety as standard – a clever set-up that is designed to prevent low-speed impacts (or minimise them) by automatically stopping the car if a crash is inevitable. It’s essentially what we now call automatic emergency braking.
On the road, the Volvo XC60 is a good cruiser and with the diesel engines, is affordable to run. It’s not the best handling off-roader of this size, but has plenty of grip and good off-road ability too.
There’s a two-wheel-drive version, badged DRIVe, which majors on economy and low CO2 emissions, but doesn’t sacrifice too much in the way of performance, while R-Design variants get a sporty look which really suits the sharp lines.
It’s the well built and stylish cabin which is perhaps the Volvo XC60’s biggest strength. The modern and unfussy layout is also user-friendly, very comfortable, and makes a refreshing change from the usual German premium car interiors.
Fancy a new Volvo XC60? Read our Volvo XC60 review here.
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017) handling and engines
- Engines range from D4 Geartronic to T6 AWD Geartronic
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 21–53 mpg
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017): Handling and ride quality
The Swedish company isn’t exactly renowned for the handling of its cars, and the Volvo XC60 is no exception. It’s not bad, it’s just not that good.
On more demanding roads, there’s quite a lot of body roll, giving you the feeling that the whole thing is slightly top-heavy, which doesn’t inspire confidence through corners.
Coupled with steering that feels rather dead, yet is over-sensitive as you begin to turn it, your progress can feel a little uncomfortable. Even the ride quality is disappointing, picking up all sorts of minor bumps.
Still, as a motorway cruiser and family car, it’s smooth and relaxed. Volvo offered its adaptable ‘Active Four-C’ chassis as an option, which certainly improves the ride.
The one thing the Volvo XC60 does do well is retain grip. It feels very sure-footed on slippery surfaces and is good on wet roads too, giving you confidence in treacherous conditions.
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017): Engines
Although it only accounted for a small number of Volvo XC60 models sold, the T6 turbocharged petrol six-cylinder is a great top-of-the range engine.
It’s not the choice if you’ve got an eye on running costs, but for sheer enjoyment, it’s superb. It’s very smooth and happy to be revved, packing a meaty punch at the same time.
Plus, it’s a sublime motorway cruiser, with very little engine, road or wind noise at high speed. The downside is economy of just 26.4mpg.
In contrast, the D5 diesel is frugal but noisy. Volvo needed a more modern diesel than the five-cylinder unit, and it arrived with the 2.0-litre turbodiesel in 2010, in D4 form to begin with, and giving 163PS.
The D3 soon joined with 136PS, and this engine was later boosted to as much as 190PS to make it the one to choose.
When the Volvo XC60 was first launched, all models were all-wheel drive. But in May 2009, a front-wheel drive 2.4D model was introduced, badged DRIVe (Volvo’s name for its green models).
It produces 177PS and certainly doesn’t feel sluggish.
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017): Safety
At speeds up to 9mph, the Volvo XC60’s City Safety system will cut in to stop the car if its built-in laser detects an object immediately ahead.
It will also slow – but not stop – the car from speeds up to 19mph. This was one of the very first automatic emergency braking systems and worked well.
Plus the Volvo XC60 comes with six airbags, ESP traction and stability control, anti-whiplash seats, ABS anti-lock brakes, Isofix child seat mounts, and scored a fine five-star rating when tested by Euro NCAP.
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017): Towing
The Volvo XC60 has proven to be a popular choice with caravan owners thanks to its stability and the fact it can pull a braked trailer of up to 2000kg.
With an unbraked trailer, the maximum permissible is 750kg.
Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
---|---|---|---|
2.4 D | 38 mpg | 10.5 s | 199 g/km |
2.4D DRIVe | 47 mpg | 9.8 s | 159 g/km |
D3 DRIVe Start/Stop | 50 mpg | 10.3 s | 149 g/km |
D3 Geartronic Start/Stop | 42 mpg | 10.3–10.9 s | 178–179 g/km |
D3 Start/Stop | 50 mpg | 10.4 s | 149 g/km |
D4 | 53–63 mpg | 7.6–9.8 s | 117–139 g/km |
D4 Geartronic | 44–60 mpg | 7.6–10.2 s | 124–169 g/km |
D5 | 38–54 mpg | 8.1–9.5 s | 137–199 g/km |
D5 Geartronic | 44–50 mpg | 8.2–8.3 s | 149–169 g/km |
D5 Geartronic Start/Stop | 42–44 mpg | 8.3–8.8 s | 169–179 g/km |
D5 Start/Stop | 50–53 mpg | 8.1–8.4 s | 139–149 g/km |
T5 PowerShift | 33–42 mpg | 8.1 s | 157–198 g/km |
T6 AWD Geartronic | 26 mpg | 6.9 s | 249 g/km |
T6 Geartronic | 26 mpg | 7.3 s | 249 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
77%
Real MPG
21–53 mpg
MPGs submitted
1169
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017) interior
- Boot space is 495–1455 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
Dimensions | |
---|---|
Length | 4627–4644 mm |
Width | 1891–2120 mm |
Height | 1713 mm |
Wheelbase | 2774 mm |
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017): Practicality
The Volvo XC60 has a remarkably practical cabin, with lots of space up front and in the rear.
You also have some of the best seats in the business when it comes to support and comfort, and the driver enjoys good vision in all directions.
The only real criticism is that the leather seats (if fitted) are a bit slippery around corners, and could do with more side support.
Family drivers will appreciate the space in the rear of the Volvo XC60, which has wide-opening doors to make it simple when loading kids into their chairs.
Older children and adults will like the amount of knee room and head space they have. You can also fit three abreast back here, although whoever is in the middle sits on a raised cushion.
The 40/20/40 split rear seats fold extremely easily, leaving a completely flat load floor, even if it is rather high off the ground.
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017): Quality and finish
The interior is typical Volvo which means it’s full of clean lines, wonderfully tactile surfaces and a choice of tasteful Scandinavian wood or aluminium trim.
The now trademark ‘floating’ centre console is angled towards the driver, while the ‘X’ motif on the seats helps it look less drab.
The build quality is very good and everything feels robust and durable. The dials are really easy to read, but if you opt for the sat-nav you may be disappointed that it’s operated via a remote control, which seems fiddly compared to buttons or a dial on the dash.
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017): Infotainment
A built-in sat-nav screen was an option for the Volvo XC60 from new, and was standard on upper trim levels. It’s dated by modern standards and was itself improved in 2010.
Things were updated again in 2013 with the Sensus Connected Touch.
It enabled connectivity and internet in the car and turned the seven-inch display into a state-of-the-art, infra-red, beam-scanned touchscreen that can be used even when wearing gloves – a world first in cars and handy in winter.
Connection is made either via a car-mounted 3G/4G dongle or the driver’s mobile phone.
This system also allowed streaming of music, internet radio (TuneIn and Orange Live Radio), (Google) Map and Search, eEmbedded Connected 3D navigation with online traffic info and dangerous zone warnings, parking locator, weather information, App Store for new functions and updates, as well as a Volvo service locator.
It was also possible to share a WiFi network with everyone in the car.
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017) value for money
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017): Prices
You can find earlier Volvo XC60s for very low prices, but we’d avoid these high-mileage examples.
Instead, we’d look for something around the £7000 mark. That will secure a 14-year-old car with 75,000 miles on the clock. It will have improved infotainment, too.
For a 60,000-mile 10-year-old Volvo XC60 with the 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine, reckon on spending £11,000 or so. That will net you an SE Nav version in fine order.
Volvo XC60 (2008 – 2017): Running Costs
A fair few engines were offered in the Volvo XC60 during its lengthy lifetime.
Our picks are the D3 and D4 four-cylinder turbodiesel units, especially the frugal D3 DRIVe model. It offers a claimed 49.6mpg and delivers real-world economy of 42.6mpg – not bad for this size of SUV.
The D4 claimed up to 62.8mpg, but our Real MPG data shows this is likely to be around 42mpg in normal driving.
The T6 petrol is swift but very thirsty, so a better balance is the D5 five-cylinder motor that can deliver a true 40mpg.
Stick to the four-cylinder 2.0-litre diesels and emissions range from 117g/km to 149g/km. For earlier Volvo XC60s, this means road tax paid annually at between £35 and £210.
Based on which model, engine and if it’s two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, the Volvo XC60 sits in insurance groups spread between 26 and 36 (out of 50).
It’s proven a tough, reliable car, but older Volvo XC60s can need pricey repairs, so check out any potential buy carefully.
An independent specialist is the best bet for looking after older models, while Volvo dealers will appeal more to those picking a later, first-generation Volvo XC60.
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The Volvo XC60 S comes with 17-inch Segin alloy wheels, front fog lights, roof rails and a rear spoiler, as well as the advanced safety systems you’d expect from the manufacturer including City Safety and RSC (Roll Stability Control).
Interior details include electronic climate control, an information centre, cruise control, a leather steering wheel with remote audio controls, aluminium trim and a performance sound audio system with Aux input and a CD player.
The Volvo XC60 SE adds Hill Descent Control, an electric driver’s seat with memory and auto-folding power door mirrors with ground lights, Eriksberg T-Tec/Textile upholstery, an auto-dimming rear view mirror with a compass and chrome window trim.
The Volvo XC60 SE Lux further adds chronographic instrument dials, leather upholstery and Nordic Light Oak natural wood trim, while both front seats are powered and heated. It also had luxury floor mats and chrome detailing, 18-inch Merac alloy wheels, active bending headlamps, a powered tailgate and rear park assist.
The Volvo XC60 R-Design arrived in January 2010 with a specially tuned sports chassis and sharper driving characteristics. It also has an auto-dimming rear view mirror, auto-folding power mirrors with ground lights, rain sensor, rear park assist, power operated tailgate, a high-performance sound system and Bluetooth.
The Volvo XC60 Premium upgrade for Volvo XC60 SE, Volvo XC60 SE Lux and Volvo XC60 R-Design models offered leather-faced upholstery, satellite navigation, DAB radio and a high performance audio system.
The Volvo XC60 ES trim pitched up in May 2010 to replace the Volvo XC60 S with 17-inch wheels, City Safety, ECC (Electric Climate Control), cruise control, a performance audio system, Aux input for MP3 players and CD player, leather steering wheel with remote controls and a rear spoiler.
Dimensions | |
---|---|
Length | 4627–4644 mm |
Width | 1891–2120 mm |
Height | 1713 mm |
Wheelbase | 2774 mm |
Miscellaneous | |
---|---|
Kerb Weight | 1702–1889 kg |
Boot Space | 495–1455 L |
Warranty | 3 years |
Servicing | 12500–18000 miles |
Spare Wheel | |||
---|---|---|---|
Standard | Tyre-repair kit | ||
Alternative | Space-saving spare wheel |
Costs | |
---|---|
List Price | £24,250–£43,720 |
Insurance Groups | 26–36 |
Road Tax Bands | C–L |
Official MPG | 26.3–62.8 mpg |
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
---|---|
Adult | 5 |
Child | 4 |
Pedestrian | 2 |
Overall | 5 |
On sale until June 2018
On sale until April 2016
On sale until April 2015
On sale until April 2013
4 X 4 | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
T6 AWD R-Design Geartonic Premium 5dr Auto | £40,650 | 26.4 mpg | 7.3 s |
On sale until April 2012
On sale until June 2011
4 X 4 | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
T5 R-DESIGN Powershift 5dr Auto | £33,025 | 33.2 mpg | 8.1 s |
T5 SE Lux Powershift 5dr Auto | £34,610 | 33.2 mpg | 8.1 s |
T5 SE Powershift 5dr Auto | £32,030 | 33.2 mpg | 8.1 s |
T6 AWD Geartonic SE 5dr Auto | £36,905 | 26.4 mpg | 7.3 s |
T6 AWD Geartonic SE Premium 5dr Auto | £39,230 | 26.4 mpg | 7.3 s |
T6 AWD R-DEISGN Geartonic 5dr Auto | £37,900 | 26.4 mpg | 7.3 s |
T6 AWD SE Lux Geartonic 5dr Auto | £39,485 | 26.4 mpg | 7.3 s |
On sale until January 2010
On sale until March 2009
4 X 4 | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
2.4D S | £24,250 | 37.7 mpg | 10.5 s |
2.4D S Auto | £24,250 | - | - |
2.4D SE | £25,750 | 37.7 mpg | 10.5 s |
2.4D SE Auto | £25,750 | - | - |
2.4D SE Lux | £28,050 | 37.7 mpg | 10.5 s |
2.4D SE Lux Auto | £28,050 | - | - |
D5 S | £25,250 | 37.7 mpg | 9.5 s |
D5 S Auto | £25,250 | - | - |
D5 SE | £26,750 | 37.7 mpg | 9.5 s |
D5 SE Auto | £26,750 | - | - |
D5 SE Lux | £29,050 | 37.7 mpg | 9.5 s |
D5 SE Lux Auto | £29,050 | - | - |
On sale until July 2008
4 X 4 | |||
---|---|---|---|
Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
2.4D S | £24,750 | - | - |
2.4D S Auto | £24,750 | - | - |
2.4D SE | £26,250 | - | - |
2.4D SE Auto | £26,250 | - | - |
2.4D SE Lux | £28,750 | - | - |
2.4D SE Lux Auto | £28,750 | - | - |
D5 S | £25,750 | - | - |
D5 S Auto | £25,750 | - | - |
D5 SE | £27,250 | - | - |
D5 SE Auto | £27,250 | - | - |
D5 SE Lux | £29,750 | - | - |
D5 SE Lux Auto | £29,750 | - | - |
T6 Geartonic SE Auto | £31,995 | - | - |
T6 Geartonic SE Lux Auto | £34,495 | - | - |
Model History
- March 2008: Volvo XC60 unveiled
- February 2009: XC60 2.4D DRIVe launched
- June 2009: 2010 model year announced
- May 2010
- December 2010
- October 2011
- February 2013
- February 2013
- September 2013
- October 2013
- January 2014
- April 2015
- February 2016
March 2008
Volvo XC60 unveiled
Comes with a variety of intelligent safety systems including City Safety – a unique system that can help the driver avoid or reduce the effects of the type of low-speed impacts that are common in city traffic and traffic tailbacks. If the car is about to drive into the vehicle in front and the driver does not react, the car brakes itself.
Available to order from July 2008 the Volvo XC60 launches with three engine variants - two diesels and one petrol. The frugal 163bhp 2.4D and 185bhp D5 variants with manual transmission both deliver 37.7mpg with CO2 emissions of 199g/km.
Joining the manual is the Geartronic version at 219g/km. The D5 diesel engine generates 400Nm torque, while the entry level 2.4D offers 340Nm of torque. The 285bhp T6 petrol is capable of a top speed of 130mph and offers a brisk 0 to 60mph time of 7.1 seconds, while delivering 400Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is 23.7mpg with CO2 emissions of 284g/km.
The Volvo XC60 was made available to order from October 2008 and was launched in UK dealer showrooms in November 2008. It was awarded the maximum five star Euro NCAP crash test rating for Adult Occupant Protection tests, which includes front and side impacts. It also received the highest rating in Euro NCAP's new assessment procedure for evaluating the degree of whiplash protection offered by passenger cars in rear-end collisions.
February 2009
XC60 2.4D DRIVe launched
Has 175bhp and 420Nm delievring 159g/km of CO2 and 47.1mpg. All DRIVe models are equipped with a conventional diesel engine and manual gearbox optimised for extra-low fuel consumption. These cars are also tailored specifically for low rolling resistance and reduced air drag.
In addition to front-wheel drive, a number of improvements all help deliver the new model's competitive fuel consumption and CO2 figures. Volvo Cars' engine experts have also succeeded in reducing friction and pump losses in the diesel engine and in cutting the pressure drop in the intake and exhaust systems.
The gear ratios have also been optimised so the car can be driven economically. For instance, when driving at 62 mph in top gear, engine revs and thus also fuel consumption are significantly lower with the new powertrain.
June 2009
2010 model year announced
The new D5 engine is now available in the XC60 offering up to an 11% increase in performance and an 8% reduction in CO2 emissions to 183g/km. The new D5 engine with its twin sequential turbo charging offers a 20bhp performance boost to provide 205bhp and 420Nm of torque. Despite this power increase, CO2 emissions have been cut to 183g/km.
Volvo also now offer an additional Premium Pack specification on all trim levels and engines for an extra £2,000. The Premium Pack includes the addition
of leather-faced upholstery and satellite navigation. An updated satellite navigation system (RTI) has also been introduced in to bring it in line with the smaller cars in the Volvo range. A new driver interface, new colours and an
improved premium feel to the menu and symbols are the key features and
the unit costs £1,950.
All new 2010 MY models were available to order from June 2009 with first customer cars delivered in July. CAP upgraded its residual value predictions of the Volvo XC60 DRIVe estimating the trade price of a 2.4D DRIVe SE at 40% of its cost-new price after three years and 60,000 miles.
May 2010
The new five-cylinder 2.0-litre diesel from the new Volvo S60 is now available on the XC60 while the six-cylinder T6 petrol engine is upgraded to 304bhp and 440Nm of torque.
The new 2.0D diesel is, in principle, the same engine as the well-established 2.4-litre diesel, but its displacement has been reduced with a shorter stroke to optimise fuel consumption. The injection system also has a different type of piezoelectric fuel injector compared with the D5 engine. These injectors minimize fuel consumption with their exceptionally rapid and precise injection.
It develops 163bhp and is badged the D3. This new naming has been introduced to allow customers to more easily understand which engine is the most powerful and which fuel it is driven by - D for diesel and historically T has been used for Volvo's petrol cars. Volvo's naming strategy also follows the principle that the higher the number the more powerful it is - a D5 engine has more power that a D3.
The new D3 engine replaces the 2.4D FWD 175bhp variant and will become the new DRIVe engine emitting only 154g/km of CO2 emissions and 47.9mpg. The new D3 engine is also available with automatic transmission, however, as this variant delivers slightly higher CO2 levels it will not be badged DRIVe. The D5 twin-turbo diesel and high-performance T6 petrol engine remain in the ranges and have both benefitted from improvements. The D5 205bhp has seen a drop in CO2 emissions from 183g/km to 174g/km.
The ES trim replaces the S specification and includes all the features and afety systems you would expect from Volvo. The XC60 ES specification includes 17-inch wheels, City Safety, ECC (Electric Climate Control), cruise control, a performance audio aystem, Aux input for MP3 players and CD player, leather steering wheel with remote controls and a rear spoiler.
December 2010
240PS chain cam Ford Ecoboost engine coupled with Ford/Getrag Powershift transmission available from January 2011.
October 2011
XC60 D3 AWD (163hp) available from £29,100.
February 2013
Effective immediately for the XC60 D4 FWD Geartronic. Fuel economy for this model rises to 47.1mpg from 41.5mpg and it now produces just 159g/km CO2, a 19g/km CO2 improvement on the previous production model. The corresponding fall in BIK sees this vehicle drop from the 29% BIK banding to just 25% for the current financial year and 26% for the 2013/2014 financial year.
February 2013
Significant revisions XC60. Redesigned interior and exterior of the new 60 cars. Inside, the attention to detail, the authentic materials - such as wood and leather - and the easy-to-use controls contribute to the in-command driving experience.
New optional sport seat that retains this traditional comfort and makes a perfect addition to the in-command feel of a true driver's car. Previously visible washer nozzles have been relocated out of sight under the bonnet. Radar cover has been painted gloss black, which practically makes it disappear in the grille. Chrome frame around the grille has been removed and the new, bigger ironmark badge enhances the new cars' self-confident look.
The new S60, V60 and XC60 offer an extended wheel choice with a variety of 18"and 19" designs that increase the personalisation possibilities for customers. The XC60 is available with 20-inch wheels while keeping the same tyre profile height and ride comfort as with 19-inch wheels.
On the exterior, Volvo's best-selling model, the XC60, gets a more urban twist. The redesigned front features a new hood shape that emphasises the wide, confident look.
The XC60 also benefits from an interior upgrade. The new features include new wood inlays, a new headliner, textile B-pillars and the silk metal frames around the air vents and light controls.
The refined XC60 has a commanding driving position supported by generous ground clearance and the class-leading chassis. The XC60 is designed to feel every bit as nimble and agile as a standard height road car.
Corner Traction Control now comes as standard. This torque vectoring system helps the driver avoid understeer by applying just the right amount of brake force to the inner wheels while powering the outer wheels when accelerating out of a corner.
With All Wheel Drive, the XC60 becomes an extremely capable vehicle on any road, in any kind of weather. The optional Hill Descent Control boosts this capability by automatically controlling the car's speed when driving down steep slopes.
Sensus is the name Volvo uses for all its HMI (Human Machine Interface) functionality and the all-new Sensus Connected Touch is the latest addition. It enables connectivity and Internet in the car and turns the 7-inch display into a state-of-the-art infrared, beam-scanned touch screen that can be used even when wearing gloves - a world first in cars and handy in winter! Connection is made either via a car-mounted 3G/4G dongle or the driver's mobile phone.
The user has access to full Internet browsing (except when driving), Internet streaming of music, Internet radio (TuneIn and Orange Live Radio) with thousands of channels from all over the world, on-line (Google) Map and Search, Embedded Connected 3D navigation with online traffic info and dangerous zone warnings, Free Parking locator, weather information, a number of native and web applications, App Store for new functions and updates as well as a Volvo service locator. It is also possible to share a WiFi network with everyone in the car.
The new Volvo XC60 has also been improved, with both the D5 (215 hp) and the D4 (163 hp) versions with a manual gearbox and All Wheel Drive, delivering a combined fuel consumption of 5.3 l/100 km (139 g/km).
There are improvements with petrol power too, with the S60 with the 1.6-litre GTDi (Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection) engine T4 (180 hp) or T3 (150 hp) and automatic gearbox now offering fuel consumption at 6.8 l/100 km (159 g/km). The corresponding figure for the V60 T4 and T3 is 7.2 l/100 km (167 g/km).
The three-spoke steering wheels can now be accompanied with paddle shifters for cars specified with automatic transmission. They turn the automatic box into a manual with the benefit of shifting gear with both hands on the wheel. The paddle shifters give the enthusiastic driver an additional edge, particularly when powering round twisty roads. And for the added comfort of drivers in Sweden and other cold countries, the steering wheel can also be specified with heating for increased comfort on cold winter days.
Cars equipped with a rain sensor can now benefit from an electrically heated windscreen for rapid de-icing on cold winter days. The S60, V60 and XC60 are also available with outer rear view mirrors with auto dim. Using chromatic glass, the mirrors automatically dim to avoid glare from other traffic, just like the inner rear view mirror.
September 2013
Volvo launched the first of its new series of DRIVe engines – two 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. Volvo will sever its last engine links with Ford within the next two years with a new family of efficient, light and compact four-cylinder units.
The first of these new Drive-E engines will be available by the end of 2013. For the UK there will be a D4 twin-turbo diesel developing 181PS and 400Nm of torque, and a supercharged and turbocharged T6 petrol unit with 306PS and 400Nm.
The D4 will be available in the '60-series' family as well as the V70, XC70 and S80. The T6 will, for now, only be offered in the S60 saloon and V60 estate, but is destined to go into the all-wheel-drive XC60 crossover later. Eventually the Drive-E family will expand to eight engines, seven of which will be offered in the UK. All will be 2.0-litre direct-injection units with varying levels of turbocharging.
The diesels will deliver between 130 and 239PS, and the petrol units 140 to 306PS. They have been prepared for eventual use in hybrid drive systems. The previous range of Ford four-cylinder engines and in-house five-cylinder diesel and six-cylinder petrol units are progressively phased out.
Volvo says the new engines are up to 35% more fuel efficient than those they replace, an average of 50 kilos lighter and smaller. The S60 D4 will bringemissions down to as low as 99g/km, while even the T6 emits only 149g/km. The Drive-E units meet all future emissions regulations up to 2017, without expensive after-treatment in the case of the diesels.
Volvo now offers a new eight-speed Aisin Warner automatic transmission with the D4 and T6 as an alternative to the revised six-speed Getrag manual gearbox.
October 2013
Production version of Volvo's new D4 2.0 litre diesel develops with 181PS and and with manual gearbox manages an EC combined economy of 74.3mpg emits 99g/km in the EC tests. A Volvo V60 D4 with up to 17-inch tyres also breaks the 100-gram barrier according to the NEDC certification with emissions the same as the S60 saloon at 99 g/km.
The Drive-E diesels feature world-first i-ART technology with pressure feedback from each fuel injector instead of using a traditional single pressure sensor in the common rail. Each injector has an intelligent chip on top of it that monitors injection pressure. Using this information, the self-adapting i-ART system makes sure that the ideal amount of fuel is injected during each combustion cycle.
The new D4 FWD can be ordered from October 2013 and is available in the new S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70 and S80. It is also available to order with the new 8-speed automatic.
The Volvo S60 T6 FWD with 306 horsepower and the new 8-speed automatic emits only 146g/km CO2 and is the first car in the segment that delivers over two horsepower per gram of CO2from a combustion engine only. The car accelerates from 0-62 mph in 5.9 seconds. The new two-litre, four-cylinder T6 engine features both a supercharger and a turbo charger, like VAG's 1.4 'Twincharger' TSI.
Using the supercharger to fill in the bottom end torque gives the petrol engine a big, naturally aspirated feel. The mechanically linked compressor starts to function immediately at low revs, while the turbocharger kicks in when the airflow builds up. The new T6 engine is expected to be available during 2014.
January 2014
Volvo Drive-E 4 cylinder powertrains:
DIESEL
1,969cc 4cylinder single turbo: 120PS, 250Nm torque
1,969cc 4cylinder single turbo: 150PS, 320Nm torque
1,969cc 4cylinder twin turbo: 181PS, 400Nm torque
1,969cc 4cylinder twin turbo: 230PS, 480Nm torque
PETROL
1,969cc 4cylinder single turbo: 140PS, 250Nm torque + 30Nm overboost
1,969cc 4cylinder single turbo: 190PS, 300Nm torque + 30Nm overboost
1,969cc 4cylinder single turbo: 245PS, 350Nm torque + 30Nm overboost
1,969cc 4cylinder supercharger + turbo: 306PS, 400Nm torque
April 2015
Power increase for front-wheel-drive, four-cylinder Drive-E D4 diesel model in Volvo XC60: now 190hp. All-wheel-drive D4 and D5 variants retain five-cylinder engines but with power output increased to 190hp and significant CO 2 emissions reductions. Rain Sensor and Air Quality System become standard on all specifications levels. Magic Blue, Osmium Grey and Onyx Black paint options are added. Two new wheel designs: 18” Leda and 19” Lesath
XC60 diesel |
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Engine |
CO 2 g/km (auto) |
MPG (auto) |
Power |
Notes |
D4 FWD |
117 (124) |
62.8 (60.1) |
190 |
9hp power increase to 190hp |
D4 AWD (5-cyl) |
137 (149) |
54.3 (49.6) |
190 |
9hp power increase to 190hp. 20g/km CO 2 reduction for auto model – now 149g/km |
D5 AWD (5-cyl) |
137 (149) |
54.3 (49.6) |
220 |
5hp power increase to 220hp. 20g/km CO 2 reduction for auto model – now 149g/km |
February 2016
Volvo 60 Series cars receive significant updates for 2016. Volvo’s award-winning four-cylinder 2.0 litre T5 petrol engine delivering 245hp and 350Nm of torque mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission becomes available in the XC60. Two new wheels will be offered – a new 18” wheel for the S60/V60 and XC60, and a brand-new 20” wheel for the XC60. These will be complemented by a new generation of 18”, 19” and 20” wheels for R-Design trim levels. The 60 Series cars are also offered with three new exterior colours. Luminous Sand will be available on all 60 Series cars, while Mussel Blue will come on the XC60, S60, V60 and V60 Cross Country. Bursting Blue will be available for S60, V60 and XC60 R-Design variants. Passion Red is also being added for the V60 Cross Country model.
What to watch out for
Intermittent fault with electronic/electric parking brake release eventually traced to a duff driver's door sensor that was not allowing the brake to be released because it thought the door was open.
2010 TSB related to rising sump oil levels in D5 Diesel engines with a DPF which is caused by excess fuel entering the engine sump via cylinders during DPF regeneration cycles. The solution is to reprogram the engine management software to reduce the volume of fuel used during the regeneration cycle and drain the excess oil back to midway between the min/max levels on the dip stick, then keep an eye on it. Really, any engine that has had its lube oil contaminated by diesel needs a lube oil change.
17-12-0216:Report of new 'serpentine' aux belt fitted to 50k mile 2011 Volvo XC60 came off within 50 metres of leaving repair garage and wrapped itself around lower timing belt pulleys, potentially wrecking the engine. Apparently there had been a factory official adjustment of the aux belt tensioner at 54k miles.
04-03-2011:Volvo says, "Regarding the D2 diesel engine, the software has been improved so that particlefilter regeneration is facilitated. As for all modern diesel engines with particlefilter, it is still recommended to do some driving at a bit higher loads once in awhile, to ensure cleaning of the particle filter. However, our experience is thatthe D2 in V50 is really easy to regerarate, so it should work fine also for mostlycity-driving. There is one second point concerning the D2: starting from late 2010 in V50, we do ahardware change from an additive particle filter to a catalyzed one. The additivefilter type needed to be replaced or cleaned after 120,000 km, which is a costlyrepair. The new catalyzed solution does not require this, which is an advantage ifthe customer intends to keep the car for longer time."
25-10-2011:Timing belt tensioner of 2.5 litre Volvo engine can fail in as little as 50,000 miles, flinging off the belt and wrecking the engine, then landing the owner with a £6,000 bill.
One report so far (27-3-2010) of failed vanes on the turbo of a D5.
16-09-2012:Powershift dual clutch automatic transmission requires fresh fluid every 3 years at a cost of £250.
10-12-2013:Complaint of Geartronic bands slipping on 19k mile 2010 XC60 D5.
01-04-2015:Complaint of rear brake discs and pads of 2012 Volvo XC60 D5 auto needing replacing at 34,260 miles.
15-06-2015:Complaint of tailgate lock failure on 50k mile 2011 Volvo CX60 that had been serviced independently.
02-10-2015:Satnav hardware failed on 2007 XC60. Quoted £1,000 to repair.
19-11-2015:Reader report that windscreen of 45k mile 2010 Volvo XC60 de-bonded, leading to a loss of structural integrity and a water leak into the cabin onto electrical components. Apparently common: http://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-xc60-51/leaking-front-windshield-2010-xc60-67995/
12-02-2016:"Widespread" problem reported in Backroom with EGRs of new VEA D4 twin turbo diesel engine in all models of V40, S60, V60, XC60. 'Craig-pd130' explains: "Volvo chose the heavy-duty EGR route to achieving Euro 6 NOx emissions compliance, rather than AdBlue. So the VEA engine has a watercooled EGR cooler with serpentine passages inside. This seems to be inadequately designed, and quickly clogs up with sooty gunk from the exhaust gas (the tap-off for recycling is before the DPF) and the traces of oil that inevitably finds its way everywhere. It makes no difference whether owners use premium or supermarket diesel, or what mix of driving owners do (high motorway miles versus urban driving) - it affects all cars, usually within 6 to 9 months and 5,000 - 10,000 miles. In the majority of cases, this problem doesn't actually affect performance or driveability, it just throws a 'Check Engine' light. Only a fraction of owners have had their cars go into limp mode as a result of the problem."
03-03-2016:GB Autos has encountered a fault in a control module under the left front passenger floor of some V70, XC70. V60, XC60. XC90, causing multiple faults if the headlamp flash is actuated. Replacement electronic control modules are in stock in advance of customer problems.
22-03-2016:Complaint of Geartronic transmission of 58k mile 2011 XC60 2.4 D5 AWD jerking and not changing down smoothly when decelerating for a roundabout or junction. Diagnostics found no fault.
05-01-2017:There were three past DVSA recalls concerning the alternator/PAS pump belt and tensioner on earlier XC60 engines. The original part was prone to failure and, under the recalls, a replacement belt and tensioner assembly were fitted as necessary. f an XC60 missed this it is prone to the belt failing, but the original type of belt is not available so the whole assembly has to be changed.
26-06-2017:Sequence of problems with Volvo XC60 D5 Geartronic now at 41,000 miles: Car taken to dealer with message ABS/DSTC service required. The ABS red warning light illuminated as did the Dynamic Stability and Traction Control light. Dealer could only detect a possible abs sensor issue. Judged safe to drive. Message cleared but reappeared soon after then subsequently cleared itself for 6 weeks. It then re-appeared. ABS light almost constantly illuminated, and after moving slightly forwards there is a series of clunks where the car no longer wishes to accelerate smoothly the DSTC caption illuminates and a only a restart allows the car can be driven. It has also thrown up an engine service required (message, no warning light) which went away after a couple of restarts (the previous day the car had had 2 hours at high speed on the motorway so it should not be a particulate filter issue). Now it has a constant City safety Service Required but the menu system would indicate this selected on. Then, having driven it down a hill it wanted to rev at 3000 rpm when it came to a stop and was not keen on accelerating away. A restart got it going. Subsequently, the gear box is not locking up in the higher gears. When driving at 70 mph foot taken off the accelerater, the engine goes back to idle. All this has started with the hot weather which may be a coincidence.
03-07-2017:Report of gas struts starting to fail on hatchback of 2012 Volvo XC60, making a groaning noise. Volvo dealer wants £500 to replace them. Apparently available on the Internet from £12 each to £46 each.
11-09-2017:Report of driver's door lock of 2013 Volvo XC60 failing while car was under warranty, then subsequently passenger door lock failing and owner being charged for the repair after which a rear door lock also failed and owner was charged for the repair.
14-11-2017:Problems reported with 2014 Volvo XC60 2.0 diesel bought from a car supermarket in August 2016. In February 2017 engine management light came on and local Volvo dealer replaced EGR cooler and hose under warranty. In September 2017, light came on again. Volvo dealer cleaned the O2 sensor (no charge) and mentioned a "flap" was sooted up and they would refer to Volvo to see if they would cover this as the EGR fix was known to cause further problems (heard nothing). In December 2017, light came on again and owner told will have to pay £500 (discounted from £800) for a new exhaust manifold as current one sooted up and a further clean of O2 sensor. Suspect that this has been caused by repeated short runs from cold.
06-02-2018:Report of unpleasant jerk/clonk from drivetrain of 2011 Volvo XC60 2.4 AWD at 55,000 miles when charging from reverse to drive and it's getting worse. Volvo dealer seemed to fix it last year but the problem is back. Local garage thought an oil change to the Haldex unit might fix it but it hasn't. Likely to be due to a disparity of more than 3mm between the tyres.
17-03-2018:Warning message reported on 35k mile 2013 Volvo XC60 About 3 weeks ago a warning message saying "gear selector service required" came up on the dash. After £90 of diagnostics dealer called owner to say that it needed a new gear selector module and almost 3 hours labour. Cost £518.70 (including the diagnostic check).
20-03-2018:2013 Volvo XC60 2.4 D4 R Design required a new automatic gear selector at 35k miles costing £518.
01-04-2018:Report of tailgate strut failure every 4 years on a Volvo XC60, costing £800 for replacements every time.
09-05-2018:Report that within a few days of the latest service of a 60,000 mile 2014 Volvo XC60 D4, a dashboard message appeared "reduced engine performance" above which was a cute symbol of a tortoise. Independent specialist diagnosed a possible EGR valve issue, a known problem.
02-08-2018:Report of recently purchased 54,000 mile Volvo XC60 D4 Drive-E 181 having had a new EGR and now needing a new EGR cooler and associated pipework "at enormous cost". We think the reason for D4 EGR failures is attempting to run them on ordinary diesel when the finely tuned injectors of the D4 engine are "optimised" to run on Superdiesel. See S60 2010 12-2-2016. Though an EGR can be replaced wityhout also replacing the cooler it is common for the cooler to leak soon after reassemlt so advisable to replace the cooler at the same time. The job usually costs around £1,500.
02-01-2019:Report of recently purchased 110,000 mile 2014 Volvo XC40 D4 repeatedly going into restricted performance mode, probably because the owner is tryi9ng to run it on ordinary deasel when the injection system absolutely requires superdiesel.
22-01-2019:Report of "rough changes into first gear" of 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission of 2016 Volvo XC90 2.0 litre 2WD. Volvo dealer has reset the gearbox but its still the same.
02-02-2019:Report of EGR failure on 2016 Volvo XC60 D4 at 70,000 miles. Engine light came on soon after fuel hose recall work was carried out. Reason might be trying to run a D4 on ordinary diesel rather than the super it is optimised for. Happily Volvo dealer took it on the chin and replaced EGR and coiler FoC.
10-03-2019:Report of significant water ingress to 2011 Volvo XC60, now starting to affect the electrics. Soaked driver's floormat over a long period of time; water drippoing from ceiling light cluster.
30-05-2019:Report of 'coolant low' light coming on in 2014 Volvo XC60 at 135k miles the day after a Volvo service. Owner topped it up, but it came on again a few miles later. Owner took it to a different Volvo dealer 4 days after the service to be told the head gasket has failed and it needs a new eengine costing £11,200. (Unable to establish when last timing belt, tensioner, waterpump and aux belt replacement had been carried out, or if the servicing dealer left the cap off or loose on the expansion tank.)
03-06-2019:Report that 2014 Volvo XC60 D4 at 70k miles needed new intake swirl flaps, new EGR cooler (under goodwill), plus new EGR (50% goodwill) and, because it was using 0.6 litres of oil in 1,400 miles, might need a new engine. No indication given of which diesel fuel had been used.
13-07-2019:Long diatribe about Volvo 2.0 litre D4 VEA twin-turbo diesel engine in 2014 V60 at 47,000 miles (as above): "Given the current Safety Recall notification from Volvo about Inlet Manifolds melting and potentially causing engine fire. How are they getting away with not admitting the apparently unfixable fatal design flaw in the pre AdBlue D4 engine fitted to many models? The “advanced” watercooled EGR cooler with serpentine passages inside amounts to a self-destruct system for the engine. Massive numbers of posts on Volvo Forums from 2015 indicate the scale of the issue. Initially, EGR valves failed. Then, in 2016, a “permanent fix” with a new re-piped EGR cooler initially appeared to solve the problem but did not. It keeps the EGR clearer but lets it affect everything else: The black gunge is now deposited throughout the engine system and, according to a typical dealer from cases he has dealt with, causes massive problems up to and including replacement engines costing £8k. He correctly predicted the hesitation on my 47k mile 2014 V60 was due to the valve problem and £4,000 later, including a second replacement for a blocked manifold and new inlet valves (and the claimed permanent fix to the EGR cooler) he was proved right. Volvo initially refused to pay anything, but eventually paid 95% when I took photos and also copied them their own email to me from 2016 promising a permanent fix under the Volvo warranty. I threatened legal action if they didn’t pay up, but not all owners dare authorise repairs in advance of Volvo deciding to contribute, or otherwise. It is clear that payments made after strong protest are not “goodwill”, but an attempt to keep the lid on a potential multi-million pound issue. The dealer tells me Volvo’s internal official information confirms it is obvious that fires are caused by blocked manifolds. This only occurs in D4 engines with failed EGR systems. But the notification not only doesn’t mention the known cause, it doesn’t even state it affects D4 engines only, leaving owners to think it is a random new issue and not in fact the one Volvo might be in breach of contract over by failing to fix it under warranty. It would be safer if Volvo told owners of higher mileage D4s with original manifolds to be extra careful, but that would give the game away. Little wonder the DVLC Safety Recall system has been used, but there is no fix available so no Recall yet. The Volvo website is not clear whether Volvo will address the apparent impossibility of changing the nature of the EGR system or just try to stop cars catching fire.”
02-10-2019:Report of problems with EGR of 2014 Volvo XC60 D4 2.0 litre bought 3 months previously. First repair dealer replaced the EGR but not the cooler. After a long trip went into limp mode. EGR cooler cleaned out as was blocked solid. Now runs more smoothly but spluttery on start-up after being left for a few days.
11-10-2019:Report of Aisin Geartronic automatic transmission of 67,000 mile 2014 Volvo XC60 D4 AWD 2.4 litre 5-cylinder going into limp home mode showing "transmission service required " while towing a caravan. Went into a Volvo dealer and as part of the repair needed a new TCM module. Horton Cars explains what can go wrong here.
14-10-2019:Report of 2015 Volvo XC60 requiring new rear brake discs at 40,000 miles.
13-12-2019:Report of intermittent electrical problems with no warning on a 2011 Volvo XC60. "Power steering goes, handbrake shows a fault, DSTC shows a fault and Park Assist. Car drove well for a year since garage had it for 1 week to sort this out and could find no fault. Now all these problems have returned." (Since purchase in March 2018 has also needed new alternator, EGR valve, battery and fuel tank sender pum. Garage have downloaded a 2019 software fix but within 24 hrs all problems returned.
22-12-2019:Report of alternator failure in 2014 Volvo XC60 D4 Automatic SE at 64,000 miles. See 5-1-2017 about problem with alternator drivebelts.
05-01-2020:Report of engine management light of 2014 Volvo XC60 D4 VEA coming on in August 2019. Car is driven 9,000 miles a year, some short urban journeys, but at least 60 miles a week at motorway speeds. Because the light is one of the indicators in the pre-recall letter of a risk of engine fire, owner booked it in at his dealer. Was told if it wasn't the recall issue he would be charged £100 for diagnostics. Later received a call telling him that the engine needed a major top end rebuild involving replacing the cylinders, valves and injectors due to them being “sooted up” but not to worry as Volvo would carry 100% of the costs as “goodwill”. The work took a week. Thread on Volvo Owners Club Forum dating back to 2015 with 2300+ posts covers the issue of carbon build up in these engines. (Also covered in V60 carbycar entry) It seems that the EGR is re-introducing soot to the engine that then builds up into carbon in the combustion chambers.
07-10-2020:Report of the central information screen on Volvo XC60 (2016) flashing on and off. Dealer says the system needs a software update at a cost of £154.80.