Eric's Autos: Reviewing the 2015 Volvo V60
WHAT'S NEW
The V60 is redesigned/all-new.
It's "Volvo" in that it's still a wagon - Volvo's specialty (and history). But kind of un-Volvo in that it actually has some sex appeal, as well as the expected (of Volvos) sensible appeal: Good value, excellent efficiency (well, Drive-E versions) and practicality (wagon layout/available AWD for snow days).
A couple of caveats: The Cross Country does not (as of this writing in early June) offer the new, not-so-thirsty 2.0 Drive-E engine - and comes only with AWD.
WHAT'S GOOD
T5 2.0 Drive-E is a sweet deal compared with either the 328i or 328d. Excellent fuel economy with new 2.0 Drive-E engine. T6 is the strongest wagon in this bracket. Cross Country version is unstoppable in snow.
Fantastic seats. Maybe the best seats out there, period. Front passenger seat folds flat - adding usable cargo-carrying capacity. Very clever "pop up" cargo area organizer; automatic second-row folding headrests.
WHAT'S NOT SO GOOD
Less backseat and cargo room than 3 Series wagon. Gas-engined 3 Series w/AWD beats FWD T5 to 60 by more than 1 full second; almost matches its fuel economy, too.
Cross Country is slowish - and thirsty. New Drive-E engine requires premium fuel.
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