2020 Volvo XC60

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Rating7.8

Ranked #8 in 

Compact SUV
Write Review
$40,150 - $52,650
Starting Price 
Amratya Nigam's image
Amratya Nigam 

Automotive Journalist,

Updated on May 3, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Power-packed Performance

Sluggish braking

Polestar models gets new 22-inch wheels

Luxurious interiors

Low towing capacity

R-Design trim gets gloss-black accents, and 4-zone automatic climate control

User friendly Infotainment System

The top-end trims are relatively on the more expensive side

Momentum trim gets leather upholstery as standard

Plug-in-hybrid variant available

Battery size increased to 11.6 kW-hr

Volvo introduces a new 3-inch digital instrument cluster as standard

Specs & Features

$42,450

price

250 hp @ 5500 rpm

horsepower

258 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

torque

8-Speed Automatic w/od

transmission

2.0L 4cyl AWD 8A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Slotted between the Volvo XC40 and the XC90, the 2020 Volvo XC60 is back with a couple of upgrades. The trim lineup has had plenty of feature upgrades, such as the Momentum trim gets rear park assist as standard, whereas the R-Design trim gets plenty of black accents all around. With a starting price of MSRP $40,795, the 2020 XC60 is offered in a variety of powertrain options, namely T5, T6, T8, and Polestar.

Coming onto the interior, it's as well laid-out as one could expect. Also, it comes with a 3-inch digital instrument cluster as standard. However, Volvo took a major step last year by redesigning the XC60 and upgrading it to the second generation, and frankly, it worked in their favor. The sales graph starting climbing and this new design language kept the cash registers busy. Further improving on its flaws, the 2020 Volvo XC60 is the second model of this generation which fulfills the demands of the current generation consumers.

Buying Advice

While other carmakers keep their base trims simple, Volvo has done excellently in providing their XC60's base trim with high-class features in sync with technology which is why we don't recommend you to climb up to the more expensive trims. The base trim Momentum is enough to suffice as it comes loaded with features that are almost similar to that of the top trim. This trim coupled with the T6 engine is the best buy if you want performance and luxury together.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The XC60 has been a part of the midsize SUV market for more than a decade now. Being in the market, it has given tough competition to the midsize luxury SUVs of the class such as the Mercedes GLC 300, the Jaguar F-Pace, the Porsche Macan, BMW X3, and Range Rover Velar. With the prices starting at $40,795 for the base trim, the 2020 Volvo XC60 has an upper hand over the rivals as it is cheaper than most of them. For 2020, Volvo also introduces an ultra-efficient Polestar plug-in hybrid variant. However, having said all of this, does 2020 XC60 have what it takes to make a name for itself in this rather crowded segment? Let's move ahead and find out.

Features
8.0/10

The 2020 Volvo XC60 is available in three trims i.e., Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription with three engine options namely the T5, T6, and T8. The prices of these trims range from $40,795 for the base trim to $53,295 for the top-level Inscription trim. There is not much difference in the features amongst the trims of the 2020 Volvo XC60. Apart from the standard features on the base trims, the R-Dynamic gets a few upgrades that make it feel a bit sporty. However, the Inscription, unlike the R-Dynamic trim, gets more luxury inside.

Trims Momentum R-Design Inscription
MSRP (T5) $40,795 $46,850 $47,495
MSRP (T6) $46,595 $52,650 $53,295
Key Features Instant Traction AWD. Additional features to Momentum plus: Additional features to R-Design plus:
  18-inch silver alloy wheels 19-inch painted machined aluminum wheels. 20-inch machined wheels with painted aluminum.
  Automatic Rain Sensing Wipers. Sensus Navigation with voice navigation system Leather seat trim
  Heated mirrors. Simulated seat trims with leather/suede Chrome exterior accents
  Lumbar support for both Driver and Passenger Nappa leather upholstery  

We Recommend

While other carmakers keep their base trims simple, Volvo has done excellently in providing their XC60's base trim with high-class features in sync with technology which is why we don't recommend you to climb up to the more expensive trims. The base trim Momentum is enough to suffice as it comes loaded with features that are almost similar to that of the top trim. This trim coupled with the T6 engine is the best option if you want performance and luxury together.

Fuel Economy
4.0/10

The 2020 Volvo XC60 is quite a fuel-efficient midsize luxury SUV. It gives an average of 24 MPG with a 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on highways. These figures are with the T5 and T6 powertrains. On opting for the T8 powertrain with the 11.6 kW-hr battery, along with the AWD setup, the 2020 XC60 can deliver up to 57 MPGe combined mileage with both gas and electricity.

Models

2020 Volvo XC60

2020 Mercedes Benz GLC 300

2020 Porsche Macan

2020 BMW X3

MPG (city)

22

22

19

25

MPG (Highway)

29

29

23

29

MPG (Combined)

24

24

21

27

Fuel Tank Capacity

18.8 gallons

17.4 gallons

19.8 gallons

17.2 gallons

These figures look very practical for a midsize SUV of this range even after having such a power-packed engine that stands amongst one of the best performers in the class. Although the BMW X3 can run an extra mile than the 2020 Volvo XC60, it still runs along with the others in the competition, due to its smaller fuel tank capacity.

Interior
9.0/10

It's spa-like in its serenity - The CarConnection

The 2020 Volvo XC60 flaunts quite a luxurious and comfortable interior setup. Also, it is so roomy that the passengers would never feel congested. With such interior dimensions, the Volvo flaunts some of the spacious interiors in the class. Although the BMW X3 still offers a bit more headroom in the front. The materials used within the interior are top-notch, and the seats come with plenty of adjustability functions that make your ride that much easier.

The 2020 Volvo XC60 has a spacious cargo area which is considered to be one of the biggest boots in the segment. It has an area of 63.3 cu. ft of cargo space when the rear seats are folded. However, even without folding the rear seats, you can easily pack up all the necessities for a weekend-long drive. The 2020 Volvo XC60 comes with a premium and intuitive Sensus infotainment system. This infotainment system flaunts a large 9-inch touchscreen which comes installed in as a portrait, unlike the landscape in most others. It is quite responsive and can be operated with ease. 

Models

2020 Volvo XC60

2020 Mercedes Benz GLC 300

2020 Porsche Macan

2020 BMW X3

Passenger Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front – Head/Shoulder/Leg (in.)

38/58.2/41.5

37.8/ 57.3/ 40.8

TBD

41.1/57.6/40.3

Rear – Head/Shoulder/Leg (in.)

38/56.3/38

38.5/ 56.5/ 37.3

TBD

39.1/56.0/36.4

Cargo Capacity 29.7 cu. ft 19.4 cu. ft 17.6 cu. ft 28.7 cu. ft

 Some other infotainment features that it offers us are:

  • Premium Harmon Kardon 10-speaker audio system
  • Bluetooth
  • Wi-Fi Hotspot and 4G connectivity
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Smart Device Integration.
  • USB ports

The 2020 Volvo XC60 flaunts the following interior features:

  • Audio And Cruise Controls On Steering Wheel
  • Front Seatback Storage
  • Keyless Ignition
  • Climate Control
  • Dual Illuminating Vanity Mirrors
  • Front And Rear Cupholders
  • Electrochromatic Inside Rearview Mirror
  • Leather And Simulated Alloy Steering Wheel
  • Tilt And Telescopic Steering Wheel
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Power-adjustable front and rear seats
  • Interior Air Filtration

Exterior
8.0/10

From the inside out, the 2020 Volvo XC60 relays subtle shapes with dramatic impact - The Car Connection

The 2020 Volvo XC60 is certainly an elegant SUV to look at. With clean and simple character lines preserving the side profile of the SUV, the 2020 XC60 has a sleek silhouette. The headlights have a T-shaped design, whereas the taillights are vertically placed at the rear. Tasteful at best, the XC60 is dominated by bespoke 18 and 19-inch alloy wheels, preserved for the upper trims.

The 2020 Volvo XC60 might not be so long or wide, but it surely is one of the heaviest in the class. This 4105 lbs heavy SUV is 184.6 inches in length, 73.3 inches in width, and 65.3 inches in height. Moreover, it also gets a longer wheelbase than its predecessors thus providing a little more cabin space in the back.

Models

2020 Volvo XC60

2020 Mercedes Benz GLC 300

2020 Porsche Macan

2020 BMW X3

Curb Weight(lbs.)

4105

3889

4099

3931

Length(in.)

184.6

183.3

184.9

185.9

Width(in.)

83.3

82.5

82.6

84.2

Height(in.)

65.3

64.7

63.9

66.0

Ground Clearance(in.)

8.5

5.0

7.8

8.0

Wheel Base(in.)

112.8

113.1

110.5

112.8

The 2020 Volvo XC60 sees lots of improvements in the Exterior like:

  • New T-shaped automatic LED headlights with active High beams.
  • Rain detecting intermittent wipers.
  • Extended vertical LEDs on the rear.
  • 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels
  • Rear fog lamps
  • Dual Sunroof/Moonroof

Safety
8.0/10

Volvo is what is known as a brand to be the epitome of safety. So naturally, all their offerings are supremely safe in every respect. Volvo has been installed with the best in class safety features, both active and passive for that matter, which are standard on all the trims. In terms of crashworthiness, both the NHTSA and the IIHS have rated the 2020 XC60 quite highly,

Some of the standard safety features on offer are-

  • Frontal Collision avoidance
  • Driver Drowsiness detector
  • Rearview camera
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Active high-beam headlamps
  • Active braking
  • Lane change assist
  • Tire Specific Low Tire Pressure Warning

Competition
8.0/10

2020 Volvo XC60 vs 2020 BMW X3

The Volvo XC60 might be old but the BMW X3 is one of the oldest in the class. Both of them surely know how to lure their audience. Both of them come with quite power-packed performing engines which perform on par with each other. Moreover, both of them also come with quite advanced technical and technological features. However, the Volvo XC60 turns out to be one of the roomiest SUVs in the class. In fact, it is easily more affordable than the BMW X3 which might become one of the major points to be taken into consideration, while choosing between the two.

2020 Volvo XC60 vs 2020 Mercedes Benz GLC 300

The Mercedes Benz GLC might not be as old as the XC60 in this luxury crossover market, but it still has its tricks up its sleeve. Although it gains momentum in terms of outright performance figures, it lags on the handling front, as the XC60 certainly seems to put off inspiring handling dynamics. All in all, even with the affordability factor being won over by the XC60, the Volvo offering can be preferred over the GLC.

Final Verdict

The 2020 Volvo XC60 after spending a decade in this market, surely knows how to turn tables around. It is quite economic, comes with a power-packed engine with best-in-class performance, good fuel economy, luxurious interiors, extruding exteriors, advanced technological features, and whatnot. So it looks like for the price it is offered at, the 2020 Volvo XC60 is the perfect luxury crossover in the segment.

Trims

    T5 Momentum
    $40,150 onwards
    • 18-inch silver aluminum Wheels
    • 2 - 1st row LCD monitor
    • A-Spec Sport Seats
    • Dual zone automatic front air conditioning
    • Rear Fog/driving lights
    • Siriusxm AM/FM/HD/Satellite
    T6 Momentum
    $45,950 onwards
    • 19-inch machined w/painted accents aluminum Wheels
    • Heated Front Seats
    T5 Inscription
    $46,850 onwards
    • Front and rear Fog/driving lights
    • Navigation system
    • Rear air conditioning
    T5 R-Design
    $46,850 onwards
    • Harmon Kardon audio system
    • Keyless entry
    • Navigation system
    • Parking assist
    • Simulated suede/leather Seat trim
    T6 Inscription
    $52,650 onwards
    • Engine: 2.0L 4cyl AWD 8A
    • Horsepower: 316 hp @ 5700 rpm hp
    • Torque: 295 lb.-ft. @ 2200 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5.4 sec
    • Top Speed: 129 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 23 mpg
    T6 R-Design
    $52,650 onwards
    • Engine: 2.0L 4cyl AWD 8A
    • Horsepower: 316 hp @ 5700 rpm hp
    • Torque: 295 lb.-ft. @ 2200 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5.4 sec
    • Top Speed: 129 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 23 mpg

Compare to similar cars

Price

$40,150- $52,650

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.8

Horsepower

316 hp @ 5700 rpm

Torque

295 lb.-ft. @ 2200 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$66,800- $126,500

Gasoline

7.79

335 hp @ 5300 rpm

332 lb.-ft. @ 1340 rpm

5

Read Review

$44,500- $61,750

Gasoline

7.15

290 hp @ 6200 rpm

267 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm

7

Read Review

$41,950- $55,900

Gasoline

7.75

248 hp @ 5200 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1450 rpm

5

Read Review

$64,300- $85,650

Gasoline

7.75

335 hp @ 5500 rpm

330 lb.-ft. @ 1550 rpm

5

Read Review

$44,350- $52,250

Gasoline

7.14

295 hp @ 6400 rpm

270 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm

7

Read Review

$45,200- $80,600

Gasoline

6.77

247 hp @ 5500 rpm

269 lb.-ft. @ 1300 rpm

5

Read Review

$52,300- $69,200

Gasoline

7.66

340 hp @ 6500 rpm

332 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm

5

Read Review

$68,650- $114,500

Gasoline

8.1

355 hp @ 5500 rpm

365 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

7

Read Review

$53,000- $64,265

Gasoline

6.22

301 hp @ 5500 rpm

329 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm

7

Read Review

2020 Volvo XC60 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    6.1 sec14.1 sec-
    2020 BMW X6

    Ranked #1

    5 sec13.6 sec131 mph
    2020 BMW X5

    Ranked #1

    5 sec13.7 sec129 mph
    2020 Audi Q8

    Ranked #2

    5.3 sec14 sec130 mph
    5.4 sec--
    5.7 sec14.1 sec135 mph

    2020 Volvo XC60 vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      22 mpg29 mpg24 mpg18.5 gal.413.6/545.2 mi.
      26 mpg33 mpg29 mpg18.5 gal.481/610.5 mi.
      25 mpg31 mpg28 mpg14.8 gal.370/458.8 mi.
      2020 BMW X3

      Ranked #3

      25 mpg29 mpg27 mpg17.2 gal.430/498.8 mi.
      23 mpg33 mpg27 mpg14.2 gal.326.6/468.6 mi.
      21 mpg30 mpg25 mpg18.8 gal.394.8/564 mi.

      2020 Volvo XC60 vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        2020 Volvo XC60

        Ranked #22

        184.6 in.74.9 in.65.3 in.8.5 in.112.8 in.
        200.1 in.77.2 in.68.6 in.6.5 in.114.2 in.
        2020 Audi Q7

        Ranked #2

        199.3 in.77.6 in.68.5 in.7.7 in.117.9 in.
        198.5 in.77.3 in.69.9 in.6.7 in.112.7 in.
        196.9 in.74.6 in.67.3 in.8.1 in.109.8 in.
        2020 Audi Q8

        Ranked #5

        196.6 in.78.5 in.67.2 in.5.8 in.117.9 in.

        2020 Volvo XC60 vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          2020 Volvo XC60

          Ranked #14

          29.7 cu.ft.103 cu.ft.63.3 cu.ft.
          2020 BMW X6

          Ranked #1

          27.4 cu.ft.164.4 cu.ft.59.6 cu.ft.
          33.5 cu.ft.145.7 cu.ft.95.4 cu.ft.
          15 cu.ft.132.7 cu.ft.68.4 cu.ft.
          19.4 cu.ft.-56.5 cu.ft.
          41.8 cu.ft.103.8 cu.ft.85.7 cu.ft.

          2020 Volvo XC60 vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            63.3 cu.ft.29.7 cu.ft.63.3 cu.ft.-
            75.7 cu.ft.32.5 cu.ft.75.7 cu.ft.-
            65.7 cu.ft.37.2 cu.ft.68.8 cu.ft.-
            22.8 cu.ft.12.6 cu.ft.78.7 cu.ft.-
            68.6 cu.ft.38.1 cu.ft.68.6 cu.ft.-
            66.6 cu.ft.41.2 cu.ft.83.7 cu.ft.-

            2020 Volvo XC60 vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              2020 Volvo XC60

              Ranked #12

              3500 lbs.950 lbs.4105 lbs.
              8201 lbs.1857 lbs.4735 lbs.
              7716 lbs.1850 lbs.5135 lbs.
              7700 lbs.1521 lbs.4696 lbs.
              2020 Audi Q8

              Ranked #3

              7700 lbs.1102 lbs.5004 lbs.
              7700 lbs.1499 lbs.4663 lbs.

              2020 Volvo XC60 SUV Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              6

              Recalls

              1

              Investigations

              17

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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