2018 Volvo XC60 Review: First Impressions and Photo Gallery
CARS.COM — The 2018 Volvo XC60 takes the word “redesign” seriously. There’s a massive difference between the 2017 XC60 and the updated version I crawled around at the 2017 New York International Auto Show.
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This isn’t that surprising. Volvo is going for a homogenous approach to its lineup, with the styling, powertrains and technology that started out on the larger XC90 and S90 quickly showing up in the rest of its smaller vehicles.
The 2018 XC60 looks like an XC90 in miniature, which is a compliment. “Thor’s Hammer” daytime running lights and the vertical stance of the grille evoke the larger SUV. Instead of a rounded rear, the back is more angular. In totality, the exterior styling is now much sharper and should age better along with the vehicle. The new look is striking and instantly makes the XC60 the best-looking SUV in its class.
Inside, the XC60 also takes the seats and large vertically oriented multimedia screen from the — you guessed it — XC90. Three wood trim pieces are designed to run across the width of the dashboard and provide a seamless, clean look. That sounds like some flowery design speak, but it really works: The front of the SUV is inviting and helps the dash keep its minimalist aesthetic.
Along with the styling changes, the new XC60 has 3 inches of added wheelbase and is wider than 2017’s model, which translates to an extra 1.5 inches of rear legroom. Along with added headroom, this gives the backseat an airy, spacious feel (even with a panoramic moonroof installed). There is also added space underneath the front seats, allowing for more room for backseat passengers’ feet — something often overlooked but definitely appreciated. The backseat offers a 12-volt charge port and a 120-volt household plug, but no USB charging ports.
These updates, along with added safety technology and new powertrains (including the plug-in hybrid T8) serve to thoroughly modernize the 2018 XC60 and make it a true contender in its class.
