Inscription T6, do not think the benefit of T8 justifies its cost. The Inscription just has some of the best interiors, the leather just feels great, love the B&W sound system.
I enjoy your vehicle reviews, very well researched, and explained in detail. Best vehicle reviews out of the hundreds if not thousands of other reviewers. Keep up the great work/reviews !
The Jaguar F-Pace, Mercedes GLC, Audi Q5, and BMW X3 just got a very interesting challenger in this smaller luxury SUV class. The standard features offered in the XC60 make it a much better value than its competitors.
I just spend 3 days with a 2017 XC90 Inscription, loaded up including the Bowers and Wilkins, and I am a 1st generation XC90 owner (has 330,000 kms and no signs of dying anytime soon) and I have to say, I absolutely adore the new design language. I know that lots of people complain about the smaller engine, but they need to put a sock in it. The new 2.0TS engine is significantly peppier than the V8 XC90 if you can imagine, and the fuel consumption was less for sure. I also love the seats in my XC90, but the new seats are even better. Would I have the Swede over the Germans? You bet! Why? Simple: It isn't German! It's warm inside, it has nice color choices, and people let you in while merging, unlike German brand drivers which get dirty looks because lets face it, most are douchebags. Which XC60 would I get? If the R-design was available in the lighter color interior, that is the one I would have. Currently, all R-design models come with the black interior. I would go with the T6 Inscription XC60, and outfit it with R-design wheels and tires, to give it a sportier look. I would do the exact same if I were choosing the XC90. Inscription with a wheel package change. I would have it with the Ferrari Beige leather.
I actually have just pre-ordered the XC60 and went with the T8 inscription model. Simply wanted the plush relaxing drive with the air suspension along with the electrification battery option so that I can sit in traffic getting a massage while not emitting any pollution. The semi-autonomous driving mode also I hope will help relieve the stress of horrendous Bangkok traffic. Plus its a Volvo and it is the safest SUV that I know of!
Actually just got a 2018 XC60 T6 momentum with nav and heated seats/steering wheel pkg. Msrp is $49,255. No home link on a $50k car. Rediculous. Nothing that a garage door opener clipped to a visor can't cure. Love the car. Highest hp in its category... 316. Was looking at a BMW X4 as well. Only 240hp and $5k more...
Wow, thats sexy. I had my mind made up on a lincoln mkx (had everything I wanted, massaging seats, love the new myfordtouch), I think this blows it away in every way. And when I configured the packages I wanted, both came out about 53k(Inscription T5, basically loaded). In answer to your question, this new volvo styling is my favorite of any SUV. MAYBE if lincoln brings the navigator styling to the MKX and MKC it could be competitive (I do like that new grille).
I will admit, the Lincoln will be FAR less money in the real world as Ford puts a lot of incentive money out there. Volvo, does not need to. They only lease 40% of these - meaning they have plenty of people lining up to buy these things which translates to less incentives. That said, as I have said many times in the past and most recently in the Dave Ramsey episode (ruclips.net/video/VKfNA_jA4HE/видео.html), you drive a car NOT a payment or a price. Soooo, between the two, I can tell you the Volvo is a far better vehicle from all levels and the money is yes a bit more but similar. You will also have FAR better resale in the Volvo. Hope that helps.
Definitely Inscription, because I have a 2016 V60 Inscription with all bells and whistles, plus an extra perk of a set of low profile sporty wheels. It was a dealer's display one. Other than the interior designs, and screen displays, and software, the V60 inscription has most of the safety functions. I also have a 2009 XC90 V8 AWD, and put 100600 miles. I still feel it like a new vehicle, in excellent condition, and spotless body. It is about time to replace. I have also looked at Jaguar F-Pace and E-Pace, as well as Porsche Macan, but I will definitely choose XC60 Inscription. I have never been fan of the hybrid vehicles which make things unnecessarily more complicated. Therefore, T8 cannot justify the price tag vs the benefits, and is out of the question. When I was at college, my first car is a used 1983 Volvo 240 Turbo, solid like a tank, running very well, especially carried my family through the hard time and a accident on the expressway without anyone hurt. I love Volvo!
Definitely the xc60 is very nice, but I have a glc with the technical package offroad in Peru and the SUV is super reliable, travel to Cusco by curving the Andes at more than 4000 meters above sea level and behaved in an impressive way, Super comfortable and powerful in all kinds of way. Greetings from AREQUIPA- PERU
FYI, the seats in the XC60 are exactly like those in the 90-cluster cars. Has the same suspension setup as the XC90 and not the S/V90 series. XC60 has the same cooling system as the ones in the S/V90.
I would choose the R-line model firstly because of how it looks on the outside. The wheels are a big plus. I built an XC60 R and an XC90 R and there was only about a $2000 difference.
I would do the $58k version (T8)...I own a 2017 XC90 Excellence, and I would suspect that you are dead on with ~ 400 lbs. less than an XC90 T8, you would have a nice bit of pulling power in the XC60. Another great episode MotoMan!
I would choose the R Design, which when optioning out came to around $50000. The design is sporty and the interior wins me over. This is the best looking crossover for the price.
I'd go for the Inscription model because of the massage seats. Also if you have to worry about spending an extra 10k on your new car my advice would be to wait another year and buy a fully optioned used one. ;)
I think it's important to distinguish what kind of driving an owner does. Around town, the handling isn't as important, especially if in a high traffic area. But at 80mph on long expressway drives tighter more confident handling makes a huge difference in driver fatigue and stress. I can cruise to Florida in our S60 and it's much easier than even our X5 SAV which is a pretty sporty SUV. The 5,000 lbs just feels heavy vs a 3900 lb car or even a 4100 lb crossover.
Agreed that you are one of the best reviewers...interesting, fun, informative! The base model is great value for money....I like the look of the base, but the extra nice things in the inscription i think make it worth while. That's my choice....
It should be fun blowing performance cars away in your Volvo sport ute! My wife loves doing that to Mercedes drivers in our S60 R design. The shocked look on their faces is priceless.
Around 6:00 in, he is talking about dynamic mode and the amount of roll. He cut to a great shot of the sidewall of the tire being compressed and rolled in and out as he corners. A lower profile tire (or something with a reinforced sidewall) would help even more than the air suspension does already. But at the end of the day, people choose SUVs for comfort over handling, otherwise they would buy sports cars.
In this market they will always have all season tires and the resulting compromises in performance. I would go R design (stiffer suspension), forget the air suspension and its complexity long term, and if it really mattered buy a set of summer tires and save the take-offs to put on it right before you sell it, recouping much of the cost. Just be aware they wear out much faster.
I'll be t 52K range. I need the upgraded stereo and a few tech bells and whistles. I also love the elegant interior of the Inscription model. I now have a 2016 S60 Inscription looking to upgrade in a couple of years
The T8 model I really want a hybrid I currently drive a 2017 Audi A4 which is really good on gas but I miss driving a Volvo, the new models are insanely good, and I want the T8 because I really like the mechanics of the hybrid
This has to be the second 60 series built in the US, as the Euro factories will be rockin full production capacity just to feed Euro demand. Some may argue for the V60CC, but I think this XC60 destroys those potential sales. I have a hunch that this excellent new XC60 cannibalizes the new V90CC and XC90 two row sales also. The midsize premium SUV is now the global $45K-$55K upper middle class family hauler sweet spot! Added proof: may I also draw your attention to the new Audi Q5 being built in a new Mexican factory for the Americas. This kind of investment by Audi just for this model screams huge sales forecasts for the market segment (plus the benefit from low Mexican labor rates factored in). The battle is on!
You asked, so here goes. Which of the XC60s would I select? I have to go with the Inscription - fully loaded. By my calculations, that brings me to closer to $60,000 (not to mention the almost 9% NYC sales tax - ugh!). If I didn't live in a brownstone, I'd opt for the T8, but I couldn't possibly make reasonable use of the electric motor. The only car that even comes close to tempting me is the Audi Q5 and this Volvo just crushes the Audi, in my opinion. This car will be quite a leap from my 2010 Subaru Forester XT Limited. It will be faster (and the Subaru is VERY fast). It will be sooooooo much quieter (and that's not really saying much). It will be more technologically gifted (again, what car isn't?). It will be roomier in all ways. It will be much more visually appealing. It still feels (maybe I'm delusional) like a car for a liberal, progressive person and it doesn't hurt that it will be one of Volvo's 2020 cars that won't kill or maim me. Also, I've noticed that my wife is not as attentive a driver as she used to be and I'm thrilled that all the available safety and comfort will take good care of her, too. Love all your work - intelligent, fair, thoughtful and well-shot.
Just be aware that this is an emotional choice, not a financial one. This is a $42,000 base vehicle fairly well equipped and competent performing. The depreciation will be steeper on a fully loaded version. In 5 years there will be about a $5K difference in them if they have higher miles. That means it will cost an owner/leasee about $250/month more for the nice to have stuff,. That's a lot of lifestyle.
The MSRP is $42K on a Buick Envision 2.0T with Twin Clutch AWD and active torque vectoring but can be found discounted on autotrader and cars dot com for as low as $29K.
Fully loaded R-Design...has practically all the features of the Inscription and still retains that R charm. It does get expensive. The one I test drove was fully loaded and tipped 60k. That said, i loved the car and if i had the cash id have very well come home with it.
For my budget, I would get the base model, it's wonderful! But then, when presented with the available options, I really would like the R ...but I don't think I could go wrong with the base model. I love this car based on your review (and the company's "Best Luxury SUV ...?" RUclips vid. Thanks!
The V90XC is about 10% more expensive on a broadly equivalent basis - given you say this car is more dynamic have you updated your favourite SPA vehicle?
volvo is probably among the most reliable of all car makers.. ive owned 3 volvos long term ( 5 years + each), and i only had 2 problems combined.. one was a cracked windscreen due to a stone and second was condensation in the cylinders due to extremely cold weather.. both of those issues can and will happen to any car. volvos therefor are extremely reliable, and they are never gonna let you down
Two things I didn’t’ like about this XC60 which made me order a V90CC instead: the cheaper looking interior door panels in comparison with the V90CC and the center console lacks that nice leather detail that stretches from the arm rest all the way to underneath the volume control button.
Hope it was worth $13,000, which is the price difference for comparable accelerating models with awd I've noticed that when I'm driving my car, I can't see the door panels or other details like this.
Robert LeBlanc looked at both t8 and ended up going with an sq5 instead. Personally I liked the Audi interior more and it felt more sporty. T8 not really a direct competitor imo and I'm not sure if most people would cross shop it as the glc 43amg and Macan. I was only looking at the t8 since In the US with the federal EV tax incentive and my State incentive(MA) it brings the price substantially lower and only about $2k more than a similarly equipped t6 so made sense for me to only look at the t8. Good luck can't really go wrong with either though.
thats weird, the sq5 is a lot worse than the volvo in all ways except handeling and being sporty.. and if you buy a suv anyways you dont want it to be a sportscar..
The Buick Envision Prem 2.0T won't offer as sharp as handling as those turbocharged 6's and will be much quieter. The GM Ecotec 2.0T is easily ECU tuned to over 350 lb-ft of torque as is our 2016 Envision 2.0T on 87 octane. +32 MPG at the highway speed limit too. All for as low as $29K.
Hello from Sweden! I love your reviews it's the best out there! I started follow you when you made the first Volvo review :) I had an -15 XC it's a great car, this look fantastic love it along with all new Volvo cars! Today iam driving an V60 D6 Twin engine :)
MotoMan, great video! Quick question: how does the engine compare to the Lexus RX? That Lexus 6 cyl is smooth. Coming from a series of 6 cyl mils (Honda, Toyota, BMW and Audi) I wonder how much I will like (or dislike) the Volvo 4 cyl. I really want to like this car. If this had a NA 6 cyl Volvo would have my order already.
No matter the OEM, you can't compare a Turbo 4 to a 6 in terms of smoothness. Especially this one with two forced induction devices strapped to it. While I like the power of the new Volvo engines, as well as the Mercedes 4 cylinder turbo in the C & E Class, I just don't like the loss in suppleness over the previous 6 cylinder models.
MotoMan, if it were your money, you would buy this XC60 or the new Mazda CX-5 you drove recently? I can afford either one but I'm still having a hard time spending $50k for the XC60 R sport over a CX-5 GT 4-wheel that is about $32000. Is it worth the $18000 premium? :)
SUPER tough call - you know i am cheap as the day is long and love me some Dave Coleman engineering. That said, design and interior alone - the Volvo. However, can we put a pin in this conversation until September? That is when I get to drive the CX-5 Diesel with Mr Coleman AND will have had the experience of driving the T8 version of this car.
I would get every option and the biggest engine. Its about time manufacturers stopped limiting luxury options and power based on model hierarchy. Just because I want small or mid doesn't mean I don't want trick!
t8e inscription fully loaded. White on white. It's a no brainer. 470 plus foot pounds of torque with that electric gives you solid acceleration from the line and the 4 cylinder engine is geared for harder acceleration at highway driving speeds. They mate sooo well. drift wood looks great. b and w is a go. Don't forget your hybrid electic tax credit. lease it if you're worried about reliability and resale. This will be SUV of the year. You heard it here first!
@motoman - Hello from Canada! I am about to order the T8 R-Design model and I am wondering what are your thoughts on whether or not it's worth it to add the 4 corner air Suspension with 4-C Active Chassis or just go with the Sport Suspension the R-Design comes standard with. For the past 10 years I have been driving Audi's, specifically a 2009 & 2011 A4 S-Line. Trying to figure out suspension will be closest to the feel of an Audi Q5. Thanks in advance!! LOVE your reviews!!
WOW - good question . . . also tough to answer. FULL DISCLOSURE: The only experience I have between a T6 R Design standard set up and one fitted with Air Ride is on an XC90. Have to say, would go with the air ride in that case. Will be able to spend some more time with the T6 - hopefully an R Design - and the T8 in Denver back in the US in August so hope to have more insight then. This was a VERY early drive.
I knew it would be a tough one at this early stage. So hard to know what do since ordering must be done now without even having chance to drive the model in either config. I do appreciate your advice to go with Air suspension though, it's the way I was leaning, just hope the dynamic setting will compensate and is not more floaty than the regular sport suspension. I look forward to your next review as i likely won't see my XC60 until October! Please do let me know if you hear anything on the topic.
The 2018 Buick Envision Prem l 2.0T with standard Twin Clutch AWD and active torque vectoring discounted to around $30K is steal compared to just every 2.0T CUV.
Well I DID order the T8 model R-design XC60 in bursting blue :) I live in Finland and here we have tax relieves for PHEV vehicles so it was nobrainer to get the T6 when T8 comes 5k€ cheaper :D I testdrove old platform V60 D6 (diesel hybrid), and new platform XC90 T8, V90 D5 and lastly new XC60 in which I ended up, awesome car! In old V60 batteries were placed in the back so that took a lot of space from the boot and our dogs were banging their heads against the roof :s XC90 was a bit too big our usage and V90 did not have full air suspension so XC60 was perfect fit (^^)_b
I'd go R-design with the twin engine I4. I don't think you'll get half of the price premium of the T8 back on resale, I really don't. If this isn't a super sporty SUV like a mecan, then what are you going to do with 400 HP? ok, ok. 400 HP is cool, even if it's only in a straight line.. I just don't have the $82000 CAD (inc tax) to by one of the T8s
I hope to hell that the XC60 is faster then the XC90! Given the weight difference it better be! The XC60 has the looks to me. If "I" were to purchase any of the Volvo platforms, it would be this model...
Honestly, flooring it at speed that was not a very impressive overtaking. Remember, the supercharger is probably disengaged at these revs and speeds. For road trippers, the T5 may be virtually the same in performance as the T6.
I like to have a 53k model. However, Volvo price it too high, at least in my opinion. The price is on par with GLC, X3, and Macan. But Volvo does not have the same prestige in most people's eyes. I think 41 for momentum is ok. But inscription should be 3,4k less than current pricing. Just my 2cents
I would go with the mid level R because it has the tech and features that I would enjoy. Also the T6 over the T5 for the extra power.. Volvo's big problem is dealer network and what few they have no or very few XC60' s in stock. That said I debated between the XC60 and the Audi Q5 premium plus. I bought the Q5.
The Mazda CX-5, and Mazda products in general, are economy based cars with lower power, normally aspirated engines. They generally do not compete in this segment.
Car prices are out of hand... While lovely, $60K on a depreciating liability (where one often loses 30%+ of value in the first 2 years)? Nope! Not as fun, but smarter to pay down your mortgage and get a step closer to financial freedom. Want a luxury car? No problem, buy 3+ years old and pay cash.
Is the info that this car can pilot itself on highway lane coming from overly excited journalist or is it really feasible to set it on lane and let it drive?
@MotoManTV, so, what do you think about this "dash-to-axle ratio" thing? So far I've seen this applied to Volvo S90, as well as Audi A6 or even the A4 has a longer than average dash-to-axle ratios (compared to other FWD cars). My question is: is this only a design trick to make the cars look more appealing, sporty etc., or does it also have a functional aspect to it as well? Really appreciate if you give it a thought and answer. Thanks!
I wanted to see more of the interior and the back seats and less chat about the weight of metal etc. Who cares about that. We want to see what it looks like inside, I don't give a damn how much it weighs Vs another Volvo model.
WHEN ARE YOU EVER GOING TO SIT IN THE REAR SEAT SO WE CAN SEE WHAT THE PACKAGING IS LIKE? NO REVIEW WITHOUT THAT...EVER AGAIN, PLEASE. REGULAR INSCRIPTION, unless the lease differential and the rebates make up for the increased plug-in price. R-design seats look too dark, makes the car look smaller inside. Do love the R wheels though.
I cringed when he put his feet on those white seats!! Lol
Inscription T6, do not think the benefit of T8 justifies its cost. The Inscription just has some of the best interiors, the leather just feels great, love the B&W sound system.
Too bad you don't live in Canada. We get an $8000-13000 rebate from the Govn't when buying PHEV vehicles.
Lee Shemuel we do? Lol I did not know this, buying point to mention to hubby, lol
www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/vehicles/electric/electric-vehicle-rebate.shtml
_plus.google.com/photos/..._
Lee Shemuel how odd they just released the pricing. The base twin motor XC60 is $69k cad
The base twin motor in the USA is $53k usd.
I enjoy your vehicle reviews, very well researched, and explained in detail. Best vehicle reviews out of the hundreds if not thousands of other reviewers. Keep up the great work/reviews !
Thank you for the kind words . . . Had a lot of fun shooting this one . . .
My pleasure, keep up the great work!
The Jaguar F-Pace, Mercedes GLC, Audi Q5, and BMW X3 just got a very interesting challenger in this smaller luxury SUV class. The standard features offered in the XC60 make it a much better value than its competitors.
Except the discounted $29K Buick Envision Prem 2.0T.
I just spend 3 days with a 2017 XC90 Inscription, loaded up including the Bowers and Wilkins, and I am a 1st generation XC90 owner (has 330,000 kms and no signs of dying anytime soon) and I have to say, I absolutely adore the new design language. I know that lots of people complain about the smaller engine, but they need to put a sock in it. The new 2.0TS engine is significantly peppier than the V8 XC90 if you can imagine, and the fuel consumption was less for sure. I also love the seats in my XC90, but the new seats are even better. Would I have the Swede over the Germans? You bet! Why? Simple: It isn't German! It's warm inside, it has nice color choices, and people let you in while merging, unlike German brand drivers which get dirty looks because lets face it, most are douchebags.
Which XC60 would I get? If the R-design was available in the lighter color interior, that is the one I would have. Currently, all R-design models come with the black interior. I would go with the T6 Inscription XC60, and outfit it with R-design wheels and tires, to give it a sportier look. I would do the exact same if I were choosing the XC90. Inscription with a wheel package change. I would have it with the Ferrari Beige leather.
I actually have just pre-ordered the XC60 and went with the T8 inscription model. Simply wanted the plush relaxing drive with the air suspension along with the electrification battery option so that I can sit in traffic getting a massage while not emitting any pollution. The semi-autonomous driving mode also I hope will help relieve the stress of horrendous Bangkok traffic. Plus its a Volvo and it is the safest SUV that I know of!
Actually just got a 2018 XC60 T6 momentum with nav and heated seats/steering wheel pkg. Msrp is $49,255. No home link on a $50k car. Rediculous. Nothing that a garage door opener clipped to a visor can't cure. Love the car. Highest hp in its category... 316. Was looking at a BMW X4 as well. Only 240hp and $5k more...
What about ride comfort, space, insulation?? These are very important aspects
BMW Guy - "This grandpa in the Volvo can't use his cruise control"
Wow, thats sexy. I had my mind made up on a lincoln mkx (had everything I wanted, massaging seats, love the new myfordtouch), I think this blows it away in every way. And when I configured the packages I wanted, both came out about 53k(Inscription T5, basically loaded). In answer to your question, this new volvo styling is my favorite of any SUV. MAYBE if lincoln brings the navigator styling to the MKX and MKC it could be competitive (I do like that new grille).
I will admit, the Lincoln will be FAR less money in the real world as Ford puts a lot of incentive money out there. Volvo, does not need to. They only lease 40% of these - meaning they have plenty of people lining up to buy these things which translates to less incentives. That said, as I have said many times in the past and most recently in the Dave Ramsey episode (ruclips.net/video/VKfNA_jA4HE/видео.html), you drive a car NOT a payment or a price. Soooo, between the two, I can tell you the Volvo is a far better vehicle from all levels and the money is yes a bit more but similar. You will also have FAR better resale in the Volvo. Hope that helps.
I had my heart set on an XC90 T6 Inscription but after the video, the XC60 may be the one!
Check out the less expensive, more standard feature packed Buick Envision 2.0T for $29 on autotrader.
You deliver these reviews with sooo much energy.
Definitely Inscription, because I have a 2016 V60 Inscription with all bells and whistles, plus an extra perk of a set of low profile sporty wheels. It was a dealer's display one. Other than the interior designs, and screen displays, and software, the V60 inscription has most of the safety functions. I also have a 2009 XC90 V8 AWD, and put 100600 miles. I still feel it like a new vehicle, in excellent condition, and spotless body. It is about time to replace. I have also looked at Jaguar F-Pace and E-Pace, as well as Porsche Macan, but I will definitely choose XC60 Inscription. I have never been fan of the hybrid vehicles which make things unnecessarily more complicated. Therefore, T8 cannot justify the price tag vs the benefits, and is out of the question.
When I was at college, my first car is a used 1983 Volvo 240 Turbo, solid like a tank, running very well, especially carried my family through the hard time and a accident on the expressway without anyone hurt. I love Volvo!
Nice video man!
Definitely the xc60 is very nice, but I have a glc with the technical package offroad in Peru and the SUV is super reliable, travel to Cusco by curving the Andes at more than 4000 meters above sea level and behaved in an impressive way, Super comfortable and powerful in all kinds of way. Greetings from AREQUIPA- PERU
FYI, the seats in the XC60 are exactly like those in the 90-cluster cars. Has the same suspension setup as the XC90 and not the S/V90 series. XC60 has the same cooling system as the ones in the S/V90.
I would choose the R-line model firstly because of how it looks on the outside. The wheels are a big plus. I built an XC60 R and an XC90 R and there was only about a $2000 difference.
I would do the $58k version (T8)...I own a 2017 XC90 Excellence, and I would suspect that you are dead on with ~ 400 lbs. less than an XC90 T8, you would have a nice bit of pulling power in the XC60. Another great episode MotoMan!
I would choose the R Design, which when optioning out came to around $50000. The design is sporty and the interior wins me over. This is the best looking crossover for the price.
I'd go for the Inscription model because of the massage seats. Also if you have to worry about spending an extra 10k on your new car my advice would be to wait another year and buy a fully optioned used one. ;)
I think it's important to distinguish what kind of driving an owner does. Around town, the handling isn't as important, especially if in a high traffic area. But at 80mph on long expressway drives tighter more confident handling makes a huge difference in driver fatigue and stress. I can cruise to Florida in our S60 and it's much easier than even our X5 SAV which is a pretty sporty SUV. The 5,000 lbs just feels heavy vs a 3900 lb car or even a 4100 lb crossover.
Agreed that you are one of the best reviewers...interesting, fun, informative! The base model is great value for money....I like the look of the base, but the extra nice things in the inscription i think make it worth while. That's my choice....
I went with T8 R-Design fully loaded, right after Geneva. Can't wait for your T8 review... Should get mine in September.
It should be fun blowing performance cars away in your Volvo sport ute! My wife loves doing that to Mercedes drivers in our S60 R design. The shocked look on their faces is priceless.
Around 6:00 in, he is talking about dynamic mode and the amount of roll. He cut to a great shot of the sidewall of the tire being compressed and rolled in and out as he corners. A lower profile tire (or something with a reinforced sidewall) would help even more than the air suspension does already. But at the end of the day, people choose SUVs for comfort over handling, otherwise they would buy sports cars.
In this market they will always have all season tires and the resulting compromises in performance. I would go R design (stiffer suspension), forget the air suspension and its complexity long term, and if it really mattered buy a set of summer tires and save the take-offs to put on it right before you sell it, recouping much of the cost. Just be aware they wear out much faster.
I'll be t 52K range. I need the upgraded stereo and a few tech bells and whistles. I also love the elegant interior of the Inscription model. I now have a 2016 S60 Inscription looking to upgrade in a couple of years
The T8 model I really want a hybrid I currently drive a 2017 Audi A4 which is really good on gas but I miss driving a Volvo, the new models are insanely good, and I want the T8 because I really like the mechanics of the hybrid
This has to be the second 60 series built in the US, as the Euro factories will be rockin full production capacity just to feed Euro demand. Some may argue for the V60CC, but I think this XC60 destroys those potential sales. I have a hunch that this excellent new XC60 cannibalizes the new V90CC and XC90 two row sales also. The midsize premium SUV is now the global $45K-$55K upper middle class family hauler sweet spot!
Added proof: may I also draw your attention to the new Audi Q5 being built in a new Mexican factory for the Americas. This kind of investment by Audi just for this model screams huge sales forecasts for the market segment (plus the benefit from low Mexican labor rates factored in). The battle is on!
You asked, so here goes. Which of the XC60s would I select? I have to go with the Inscription - fully loaded. By my calculations, that brings me to closer to $60,000 (not to mention the almost 9% NYC sales tax - ugh!). If I didn't live in a brownstone, I'd opt for the T8, but I couldn't possibly make reasonable use of the electric motor.
The only car that even comes close to tempting me is the Audi Q5 and this Volvo just crushes the Audi, in my opinion. This car will be quite a leap from my 2010 Subaru Forester XT Limited. It will be faster (and the Subaru is VERY fast). It will be sooooooo much quieter (and that's not really saying much). It will be more technologically gifted (again, what car isn't?). It will be roomier in all ways. It will be much more visually appealing. It still feels (maybe I'm delusional) like a car for a liberal, progressive person and it doesn't hurt that it will be one of Volvo's 2020 cars that won't kill or maim me. Also, I've noticed that my wife is not as attentive a driver as she used to be and I'm thrilled that all the available safety and comfort will take good care of her, too.
Love all your work - intelligent, fair, thoughtful and well-shot.
Just be aware that this is an emotional choice, not a financial one. This is a $42,000 base vehicle fairly well equipped and competent performing. The depreciation will be steeper on a fully loaded version. In 5 years there will be about a $5K difference in them if they have higher miles. That means it will cost an owner/leasee about $250/month more for the nice to have stuff,. That's a lot of lifestyle.
The MSRP is $42K on a Buick Envision 2.0T with Twin Clutch AWD and active torque vectoring but can be found discounted on autotrader and cars dot com for as low as $29K.
Good thing you didn't tell us how fast you were going ;) 2:11 speed limit sign, 2:20 speedometer
Fully loaded R-Design...has practically all the features of the Inscription and still retains that R charm. It does get expensive. The one I test drove was fully loaded and tipped 60k. That said, i loved the car and if i had the cash id have very well come home with it.
I would get the xc60 in the inscription model because I want/need all the extra features. I'd also add most if not all of the additional packages.
For my budget, I would get the base model, it's wonderful! But then, when presented with the available options, I really would like the R ...but I don't think I could go wrong with the base model. I love this car based on your review (and the company's "Best Luxury SUV ...?" RUclips vid. Thanks!
The V90XC is about 10% more expensive on a broadly equivalent basis - given you say this car is more dynamic have you updated your favourite SPA vehicle?
Great Review! I'd probably go with a silver XC60 T6 Inscription with Air suspension.
Even a T8 at under $60K isn't that expensive compared to the competition. It's more of a reliability/resale issue here.
volvo is probably among the most reliable of all car makers.. ive owned 3 volvos long term ( 5 years + each), and i only had 2 problems combined.. one was a cracked windscreen due to a stone and second was condensation in the cylinders due to extremely cold weather.. both of those issues can and will happen to any car.
volvos therefor are extremely reliable, and they are never gonna let you down
Bruno TaTa just lease it
That's not a issue, Volvo are known for reliability. Just google it.
It is too pricey but the last decade they've been charging German competition money.
Two things I didn’t’ like about this XC60 which made me order a V90CC instead: the cheaper looking interior door panels in comparison with the V90CC and the center console lacks that nice leather detail that stretches from the arm rest all the way to underneath the volume control button.
Hope it was worth $13,000, which is the price difference for comparable accelerating models with awd I've noticed that when I'm driving my car, I can't see the door panels or other details like this.
I'll be due for a new ride in 2020.
So far, the SQ5 and the T6/T8 are in the running.
:)
Robert LeBlanc looked at both t8 and ended up going with an sq5 instead. Personally I liked the Audi interior more and it felt more sporty. T8 not really a direct competitor imo and I'm not sure if most people would cross shop it as the glc 43amg and Macan. I was only looking at the t8 since In the US with the federal EV tax incentive and my State incentive(MA) it brings the price substantially lower and only about $2k more than a similarly equipped t6 so made sense for me to only look at the t8. Good luck can't really go wrong with either though.
Thus far, I too like the SQ5 better. I lean more towards acceleration and handling over comfort.
thats weird, the sq5 is a lot worse than the volvo in all ways except handeling and being sporty..
and if you buy a suv anyways you dont want it to be a sportscar..
The Buick Envision Prem 2.0T won't offer as sharp as handling as those turbocharged 6's and will be much quieter. The GM Ecotec 2.0T is easily ECU tuned to over 350 lb-ft of torque as is our 2016 Envision 2.0T on 87 octane. +32 MPG at the highway speed limit too. All for as low as $29K.
Hello from Sweden!
I love your reviews it's the best out there! I started follow you when you made the first Volvo review :)
I had an -15 XC it's a great car, this look fantastic love it along with all new Volvo cars!
Today iam driving an V60 D6 Twin engine :)
Motoman, Chris Harris and Matt at carwow, best car reviewers! Almost forgot, the woman at Telegraph cars uk is up there too.
MotoMan, great video! Quick question: how does the engine compare to the Lexus RX? That Lexus 6 cyl is smooth. Coming from a series of 6 cyl mils (Honda, Toyota, BMW and Audi) I wonder how much I will like (or dislike) the Volvo 4 cyl. I really want to like this car. If this had a NA 6 cyl Volvo would have my order already.
No matter the OEM, you can't compare a Turbo 4 to a 6 in terms of smoothness. Especially this one with two forced induction devices strapped to it. While I like the power of the new Volvo engines, as well as the Mercedes 4 cylinder turbo in the C & E Class, I just don't like the loss in suppleness over the previous 6 cylinder models.
Try the Buick Envision 2.0T and you only feel turbine smoothness along with a very quiet ride for $29K.
MotoMan, if it were your money, you would buy this XC60 or the new Mazda CX-5 you drove recently? I can afford either one but I'm still having a hard time spending $50k for the XC60 R sport over a CX-5 GT 4-wheel that is about $32000. Is it worth the $18000 premium? :)
well now i guess it all comes down to which one you like the looks of better.
That's part of the argument that I'm having with myself :) The Volvo appears to be the better and more substantial looking vehicle :)
get a diesel cx5 when it comes out in usa
That's the engine I'm waiting for in the CX-5 before I take it for a test ride :)
SUPER tough call - you know i am cheap as the day is long and love me some Dave Coleman engineering. That said, design and interior alone - the Volvo. However, can we put a pin in this conversation until September? That is when I get to drive the CX-5 Diesel with Mr Coleman AND will have had the experience of driving the T8 version of this car.
Very informative review with a bunch of small details many reviewers just omit...
I would get every option and the biggest engine. Its about time manufacturers stopped limiting luxury options and power based on model hierarchy. Just because I want small or mid doesn't mean I don't want trick!
you rock... the best. (i think i'd go for the 52K level coz has the right spec's and T8 seems unecessary and too heavy for the benefits)
Careful there. National speed limit for highways/freeways is 120Km/h ;)
Thank you, sir . . . I am out of the local jurisdiction but if anyone asks . . . Kumo was driving . . .
Inscription T6, because it handles better than the T8, not too overpriced, and you lose the 4 zone climate control with T8
t8e inscription fully loaded. White on white. It's a no brainer. 470 plus foot pounds of torque with that electric gives you solid acceleration from the line and the 4 cylinder engine is geared for harder acceleration at highway driving speeds. They mate sooo well. drift wood looks great. b and w is a go. Don't forget your hybrid electic tax credit. lease it if you're worried about reliability and resale. This will be SUV of the year. You heard it here first!
@motoman - Hello from Canada! I am about to order the T8 R-Design model and I am wondering what are your thoughts on whether or not it's worth it to add the 4 corner air Suspension with 4-C Active Chassis or just go with the Sport Suspension the R-Design comes standard with. For the past 10 years I have been driving Audi's, specifically a 2009 & 2011 A4 S-Line. Trying to figure out suspension will be closest to the feel of an Audi Q5. Thanks in advance!! LOVE your reviews!!
WOW - good question . . . also tough to answer. FULL DISCLOSURE: The only experience I have between a T6 R Design standard set up and one fitted with Air Ride is on an XC90. Have to say, would go with the air ride in that case. Will be able to spend some more time with the T6 - hopefully an R Design - and the T8 in Denver back in the US in August so hope to have more insight then. This was a VERY early drive.
I knew it would be a tough one at this early stage. So hard to know what do since ordering must be done now without even having chance to drive the model in either config. I do appreciate your advice to go with Air suspension though, it's the way I was leaning, just hope the dynamic setting will compensate and is not more floaty than the regular sport suspension. I look forward to your next review as i likely won't see my XC60 until October! Please do let me know if you hear anything on the topic.
The 2018 Buick Envision Prem l 2.0T with standard Twin Clutch AWD and active torque vectoring discounted to around $30K is steal compared to just every 2.0T CUV.
You didn't change mode into Dynamic. Choice needs to be approved by clicking the button and gauges turn red then. Yours didn't...
i'd go for the 58 grand, i like the added technology of electrification...not that i have the money anyway
Well I DID order the T8 model R-design XC60 in bursting blue :) I live in Finland and here we have tax relieves for PHEV vehicles so it was nobrainer to get the T6 when T8 comes 5k€ cheaper :D
I testdrove old platform V60 D6 (diesel hybrid), and new platform XC90 T8, V90 D5 and lastly new XC60 in which I ended up, awesome car! In old V60 batteries were placed in the back so that took a lot of space from the boot and our dogs were banging their heads against the roof :s XC90 was a bit too big our usage and V90 did not have full air suspension so XC60 was perfect fit (^^)_b
How's the road noise?
Get a Buick Envision Prem if you want no road noise as ours is pretty quiet.
I'd go R-design with the twin engine I4. I don't think you'll get half of the price premium of the T8 back on resale, I really don't. If this isn't a super sporty SUV like a mecan, then what are you going to do with 400 HP? ok, ok. 400 HP is cool, even if it's only in a straight line.. I just don't have the $82000 CAD (inc tax) to by one of the T8s
I hope to hell that the XC60 is faster then the XC90! Given the weight difference it better be! The XC60 has the looks to me. If "I" were to purchase any of the Volvo platforms, it would be this model...
it is 1 second faster from 0-60
Honestly, flooring it at speed that was not a very impressive overtaking. Remember, the supercharger is probably disengaged at these revs and speeds. For road trippers, the T5 may be virtually the same in performance as the T6.
I like to have a 53k model. However, Volvo price it too high, at least in my opinion. The price is on par with GLC, X3, and Macan. But Volvo does not have the same prestige in most people's eyes. I think 41 for momentum is ok. But inscription should be 3,4k less than current pricing. Just my 2cents
Volvo is pricey but the Buick Envision Prem l 2.0T is the sweet spot and a bargain at $29K.
I would go with the mid level R because it has the tech and features that I would enjoy. Also the T6 over the T5 for the extra power.. Volvo's big problem is dealer network and what few they have no or very few XC60' s in stock. That said I debated between the XC60 and the Audi Q5 premium plus. I bought the Q5.
Good review!
Inscription! For the luxury and dynamics
what about the ambiance lighting?
Is the color denim blue?
Pontus Lernhag yes I need to know what color this is!
I'm thinking the cheapest model with all the options and then back off the options, if a model above it comes with it standard.
What color is this?? Need to know so I can place an order at my local dealer.
Denim Blue.
which car has the best handling? Q5, CX-5 or XC60? Ready to buy a new car...
Kimi H SQ5
The Mazda CX-5, and Mazda products in general, are economy based cars with lower power, normally aspirated engines. They generally do not compete in this segment.
No a xc60 is much better
Good analysis.
Car prices are out of hand... While lovely, $60K on a depreciating liability (where one often loses 30%+ of value in the first 2 years)? Nope! Not as fun, but smarter to pay down your mortgage and get a step closer to financial freedom. Want a luxury car? No problem, buy 3+ years old and pay cash.
thats called inflation my friend
Maybe that much for a leased German M, S, or AMG, but not a Volvo. Why not a $29K Buick Envision Prem 2.0T AWD at half the price?
is it about size of Audi Q5?
And same size as the Buick Envision 2.0T for $29K.
Is the info that this car can pilot itself on highway lane coming from overly excited journalist or is it really feasible to set it on lane and let it drive?
Pilot assist is on offer in the 60 cluster but like the 90 cluster and other Autonomous Drive systems, it is limited to a certain period of time.
@MotoManTV, so, what do you think about this "dash-to-axle ratio" thing? So far I've seen this applied to Volvo S90, as well as Audi A6 or even the A4 has a longer than average dash-to-axle ratios (compared to other FWD cars). My question is: is this only a design trick to make the cars look more appealing, sporty etc., or does it also have a functional aspect to it as well? Really appreciate if you give it a thought and answer. Thanks!
You could get a nicely optioned Lexus RX for this price, fit and finish wouldn't be as nice though.
christian Chichester and the horrible Lexus infotainment system...
Dave Travels it's really not that bad give it a week
Lexus is the lazy boy here. The Buick Envision Prem is quieter in Car & Driver testing.
Norm T *Here is a preloved LEKSUS LS 460*ruclips.net/video/XwWVuNG4hSw/видео.html
R design always for us.
I'd choose T8 Inscription
Motoman your camera is blurry
id be good with the T5 momentum. The other models are just too much money. Im stll not buying anything until I see tat XC40!
What about the trunk space? Looks tiny
t8 58.000$ that's cheap! in Belgium 78000$ !....
you have beautiful videos
Thank you, Harris!
Did you say "massage'?! You got off track and I had to go and look it up ... it just gets better. Buh, bye, Toyota!
The horrible audio static and flat video grading is really disappointing.
What happened? :/
Robert LeBlanc audio is horrible
I wanted to see more of the interior and the back seats and less chat about the weight of metal etc. Who cares about that. We want to see what it looks like inside, I don't give a damn how much it weighs Vs another Volvo model.
For Volvo, 42K. cuz 58K could get me a Porsche!
you would not get a similarly-equipped maccan...nah
volvo gets a load of equipment as standard.. a porsche for the same price is as equipped as a cave...
למה אין תרגום לעברית
thx
WHEN ARE YOU EVER GOING TO SIT IN THE REAR SEAT SO WE CAN SEE WHAT THE PACKAGING IS LIKE? NO REVIEW WITHOUT THAT...EVER AGAIN, PLEASE. REGULAR INSCRIPTION, unless the lease differential and the rebates make up for the increased plug-in price. R-design seats look too dark, makes the car look smaller inside. Do love the R wheels though.
T6 inscription
Dear Motoman, fathers drive families too... u might wanna ease up with some of that meninist commentary in the SUV reviews
Seems like such a trivial thing to bitch about
Pounds?? Goodbye
Move a little less bud...
No. Please don't. Motoman is synonymous with moving...
Is it reliable? I guess rich people don't care!
The volume of your voice is very inconsistent!
Super annoying!
Maybe its just me but i dont rate the looks - its too bland.