Few car makers can match Volvo ’ s history and credibility in making well-designed , tough , practical and versatile estate cars . Some of those old Amazon estate cars from years ago are still on the road today . That ’ s the thing with the Swedish brand : that reputation for build quality . The new V60 shares the company ’ s ‘ Scalable Product Architecture ’ platform with the award-winning XC60 and three top-of-the-line 90 series cars , which have been the collective force behind the company ’ s resurgence in recent years , after the sorry days of Ford ownership . |
A NEW STANDARD At first sight the V60 introduces a new standard to the mid-size premium estate segment with a luxurious interior , increased levels of space , advanced connectivity , and the very latest driver-support systems and safety technology for which the brand is renowned . It is refined , has a beautiful proportion and stance as you can see from the images , yet delivers on practicality and versatility .
Reflecting Volvo ’ s recent industry-first announcement to electrify all new cars from 2019 , the V60 comes with two plug-in hybrid power-train options : the new T6 Twin Engine AWD petrol plug-in hybrid that generates a combined 340hp , or the T8 Twin Engine AWD petrol plug-in hybrid that delivers 390hp . In addition , the regular petrol choice for now still includes the T5 or T6 powertrains . Drivers who prefer diesel can select D3 or D4 engines .
THE FUTURE IS NOW In the near future we learn , Volvo will
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introduce a portfolio of electrified cars across its model range , embracing fully electric cars , plug-in hybrid cars , mild-hybrid cars plus two high-performance EV ’ s from their Polestar offshoot .
Volvo is genuinely proud of the its standing as the industry leader in safety and this car comes with a comprehensive list of safety features as standard , including the advanced driver-support systems previously seen on the 90 series and XC60 . This makes the new V60 one of the safest cars on the road today .
For example , the ‘ City Safety with Autobrake ’ technology uses automatic braking and detection systems to assist the driver in avoiding potential collisions , and is the only system on the market to recognise pedestrians , cyclists and large animals . How large depends upon your location . Additionally , City Safety now also engages autobraking to mitigate oncoming collisions .
The ‘ Pilot Assist ’ system , which supports the driver with steering , acceleration and
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braking on well-marked roads up to 80 mph , has been upgraded with improved cornering performance , say the company . The V60 also includes ‘ Run-off Road Mitigation ’, ‘ Oncoming Lane Mitigation ’ and other steering-assistance systems . ‘ Cross Traffic Alert ’ with autobrake remains an option but would definitely be worth having on our busy roads .
Inside the truly lovely interior , the ‘ Sensus ’ infotainment system is fully compatible with Apple CarPlay , Android Auto and 4G , and keeps the driver connected at all times . The system is controlled via an intuitive tablet-style touch screen that combines car functions , navigation , connected services and entertainment apps . UK prices for the V60 will start at £ 31,810 and the first customer deliveries are expected later this year . Go straight to the top of the class .
@ DriveWrite
Written by Geoff Maxted www . drivewrite . co . uk
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