2018 Volvo V60 review

1. Where to start 

For 2018, the Volvo V60 five-seat luxury wagon is available in two basic models with multiple trims. The T5 Dynamic base model comes with leather seats, a turbocharged engine, and either front- or available all-wheel drive. For more power, the T6 R-Design features all-wheel drive, sport suspension, and unique interior and exterior trim pieces. The V60’s sloping roofline gracefully extends to the cargo area, so it doesn’t look like a sedan with a tacked-on trunk. It’s a refreshing alternative to stubby SUVs and rounded sedans. 

2. Practical utility 

All 2018 Volvo V60s feature the useful 40/20/40-split folding seatbacks to accommodate a reasonable amount of luggage and cargo space. With the seats in place, there’s 20 cu-ft for shopping bags or coats. With the rear seats folded, there are 43.8 cu-ft available for swallowing larger items or a lot more stuff. If you carry little ones, there’s an option for integrated child booster seats. For more utility, the V60 with the 2.5 L four-cylinder is estimated to tow 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

3. Sophisticated comfort 

You’ll feel pampered in the 2018 Volvo V60, surrounded by quietness and comfort. The front seats are contoured for comfortable lateral support, and the outer rear seats are deep and supportive. That leaves the middle rear seat higher, making it a prime spot for children to ride. Under power, engine and wind noise are barely noticeable. The ride is refined, with the standard suspension soaking up roadway bumps with ease. The optional Sport package on the T5 Dynamic includes a stiffer suspension for increased responsiveness. Four passengers have their own climate controls to fine-tune their experience. 

 4. Handling 

While you may not think a station wagon is fun to drive, the 2018 Volvo V60 will have you rethinking that stance. Acceleration, handling, and braking fall into the performance category. The steering gives a balance of control and comfort at highway speeds. A soft brake pedal makes for consistent stopping power. The four-cylinder turbocharged engine is responsive, and the eight-speed transmission shifts smoothly and quietly. Add the optional Sport package for even more driving excitement. 

5. Advanced driver-assist features 

The list of standard driver-assist features on the 2018 Volvo V60 is long, including low-speed automatic braking, auto high beams, active bending-light headlights, and a rear fog light. The Technology package adds features such as Distance Alert to alert you if you’re following a car too closely and Queue Assist that matches the vehicle’s speed ahead to maintain spacing from 0-18 mph. The Vision package has blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera.