The interior of the Volvo XC60 small SUV is seen Thursday, March 10, 2016, in Chattanooga, Tenn.FAST FACTS
* Model: Volvo XC60 T6 AWD * Exterior color: Osmium Gray Metallic * Interior color: Soft Beige leather * Engine: 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, supercharged and turbocharged * Horsepower: 302 * Transmission: eight-speed automatic * Fuel economy: 27 mpg highway, 22 mpg city * Local Dealer: Chattanooga Volvo, 6035 International Drive * Price (as tested): $52,505
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The Volvo XC60 T6, a rocket-fast compact SUV with a host of safety features, is the kind of family vehicle that keeps marriages strong.
It scratches Dad's itch for high performance on Corridor J, while satisfying Mom's cravings for safety and utility on jaunts to Hamilton Place mall.
The XC60 is an entry-level luxury crossover that seats five (snugly) and compares to the Acura RDX, the Audi Q5 and the BMW X3.
It's a good fit for young families (and grandparents), and Volvo knows it. That's why it has flip-up booster seats built right into the back bench. The delighted look on my 9-year-old's face when he finally found a back seat that lets him see out the windows was priceless.
First introduced in 2010, the XC60 has been recently updated with styling tweaks and a new engine lineup that includes the sweet 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine in our tester. Randy Francisco, product specialist at Chattanooga Volvo, says the dealership has a full-compliment of XC60s in stock this week, including the high-performance T6 all-wheel-drive model.
Our fully loaded T6 tester lists for $52,205, including about $6,000 in optional equipment. A base XC60 starts at $36,600.
STYLING AND FEATURES
Aesthetically, the Volvo's exterior styling remains fresh and modern, even a half-dozen model years removed from its last redesign. Its broad shoulders are typical of Volvos, and there's no mistaking its Swedish power-wagon stance.
A bold grille up front and angular tail-lights in the back give the little crossover character. Custom, 19-inch wheels add a dash of sportiness. Our tester's Osmium Gray Metallic paint contrasts well with Soft Beige Leather seats, which are some of the most comfortable we've ever experienced in this segment.
Inside, the XC60 is an example of simple, elegant design. Critics might say that the dash looks a bit dated, but the minimalist treatment has a calming effect on front seat drivers used to sensory overload.
Dash instruments and switch gear are easy to operate. Fan button shapes that mimic the human body are a whimsical touch. A standard navigation system has no-frills graphics, but it's otherwise fully functional. The Harmon Kardon stereo system is first-rate, with speakers that pulse with abundant mid- and low-range sound.
The back seats, although a little tight for adults, are just right for kids. The well-bolstered "Coutour Seats" in front are a $500 option.
Safety features, always a priority of Volvo buyers, are abundant. In addition to the high-strength steel safety cage, and full array of air bags, our tester includes a collision warning system with fully automatic emergency braking. The XC60 even detects when pedestrians or bicycles are about to cross your path - a Godsend if you do much driving in downtown Chattanooga.
Luxury touches in our tester include heated front seats, leather upholstery, a panoramic sun roof and walnut wood inlays.
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
Carand Driver says that XC60 T6 will scoot from zero to 60 miles per hour in 6.1 seconds. After several days driving the XC60 in the Chattanooga area, we can attest to its high fun-to-drive factor. Throttle response is instantaneous and acceleration is spirited. It virtually leaps up our mountain roads.
The excellent engine is mated to a smooth, eight-speed transmission which makes daily commutes a breeze. The crossover also has a start-stop feature that boosts fuel efficiency to 27 miles per gallon city and 22 mpg highway. While there is no noticeable turbo-lag, the XC60 does hesitate slightly when pulling away from a full stop.
In a week of hauling soccer bags, lacrosse gear and laundry, we found the XC60 to have a serviceable amount of interior space. With the back seats folded down the XC60 T6 boasts about 67 cubic feet of cargo area.
It was easy to find a comfortable sitting position in the driver's seat and the large windshield and ample side mirrors make outward visibility a plus.
BOTTOM LINE
The XC60 T6 is like a Rhodes Scholar that also runs the 100-meter hurdles.
All-wheel-drive and Volvo's legendary suite of safety features makes it an all-weather, all-purpose vehicle that fits neatly into middle-class family values.
No matter your destination, the XC60 T6 will get you there safely, quickly and devoid of stress.
Contact Mark Kennedy at mkennedy@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6645. Follow him on Twitter @TFPCOLUMNIST. Subscribe to his Facebook updates at www.facebook.com/mkennedycolumnist.