A new 2017 Volvo V60 makes a nice car for many reasons, but here are the three that really stand out the most. First, the V60 has the practicality of a station wagon, but without the lackluster looks. Personally, I like station wagons. I find them useful. But, I know many people prefer a slick car over a practical one, which is why the V60 is a great wagon: it gives you the chance to get that utility while sporting that stylin’ Swedish look that is Volvo. Secondly, it has a powerful and efficient engine in its arsenal, with horsepower increasing depending on trim level. Finally, Volvo makes sure to employ plenty of advanced technology. Technology that many would call futuristic, primarily the brand’s exclusive Active Bending Lights.
Wagon Practicality, With Style
Why are wagons so practical? Simply put, their design promotes utility. It’s almost like someone took the front-end of a sedan and the back end of a van and shoved them together. Therefore, you get an increased amount of storage space and passenger space, but sedan-like fuel-efficiency and performance. It’s not surprising to see that the V60 has cargo space measuring 43.1 cu. ft., while still offering plenty of room for passengers.
Plus, it’s not plagued with ho-hum style like some of the other wagons out there. While the V60 is technically labeled a sports wagon and not a station wagon — (note sportier appearance and rounded rear-end, as opposed to a boxier look) — Volvo could have royally screwed up the design of the V60. But, of course, didn’t.
A Powerful and Efficient Engine
There’s one engine design for the 2017 Volvo V60: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. On the T5 trim, the engine is rated at 240 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the model is offered in both front- and all-wheel drive. Fuel-efficiency is expected at 25 mpg city/36 mpg highway.
The V60 T6 AWD R-Design trim features a more powerful version of the same engine. Now equipped with both a turbocharger and supercharger, this engine produces 302 horsepower/295 lb.-ft. of torque and gets up to 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway. Not too shabby for a vehicle with an engine that powerful.
Technology of the Future
While the Volvo has many advanced technology features, two of the more unique enhancements are the V60’s combination of Dual Xenon Headlights and Active Bending Lights technology.
Dual Xenon Headlights are more powerful and bright than the typical headlight you’re likely used to, and the Active Bending Light technology makes them all the better.
With the Active Bending Light technology on board, the headlights will actually bend around the corner as you turn. That way, you have a clear-as-day picture when turning around a corner. They also have the ability to adjust themselves depending on the load in the car. That way no matter how much you’re carrying in the back, you have level headlights every time.
There’s plenty more to brag about the V60, this is only the tip of the iceberg. The rest is worthy of a test drive…
