Volvo has released the first details and images of its new V60 estate, which will make its debut at the Geneva International Motor Show this week.
The new V60 shares Volvo’s Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with the XC60 and three range-topping 90-series cars in saloon, estate and SUV forms.
There’s a wide range of engines, with a couple of hybrids spearheading the range as the brand moves towards solely electrified engines from 2019. Both are petrol-electric plug-in hybrid models with all-wheel drive, with the T6 model making 254kw and the T8 making 290kw. The regular petrol choice includes T5 or T6 powertrains. Drivers who prefer diesel can select D3 or D4 engines.
Standard safety features include advanced driver support systems found in the 90 Series and XC60. The City Safety with Autobrake technology uses automatic braking and detection systems to assist the driver in avoiding potential collisions. Volvo says City Safety is the only system on the market to recognize pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals.
To make driving easier, the Pilot Assist system – which supports the driver with steering, acceleration and braking on well-marked roads up to 130kph – has been upgraded with improved cornering performance. The new V60 also boasts a claimed 529 litres of luggage space, with a whopping 1 364 litres of utility space.
Volvo South Africa plans to introduce the V60 locally either later in 2018, or early 2019.
Also worth a look: the 315kW of Swedish Grit: The Volvo EX30 Cross Country Revealed and the Volvo EX90: The Future of Safety Lands in SA in 2025.
FAQ
Q: What does the Volvo V60 cost in South Africa?
Volvo SA hasn't released official pricing yet, but expect the V60 to start around R650,000 for the base D3 model when it arrives in late 2018 or early 2019, with the range-topping T8 hybrid likely pushing close to R900,000.
Q: Is the Volvo V60 worth buying?
If you're after a premium estate with proper safety tech and decent boot space, the V60 looks like a solid shout, especially with that 529-litre boot and Volvo's legendary safety credentials.
Q: What engine options are available in the Volvo V60?
The V60 lineup includes diesel D3 and D4 engines, petrol T5 and T6 units, plus two plug-in hybrid models, the 254kW T6 and flagship 290kW T8, both with all-wheel drive.
Q: Does the Volvo V60 have good boot space?
The V60 offers 529 litres of boot space with the seats up, expanding to a massive 1,364 litres when you fold the rear seats down, making it properly practical for family duties.
Q: What safety features does the Volvo V60 include?
The V60 comes standard with City Safety featuring automatic braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, plus Pilot Assist that handles steering, acceleration and braking up to 130kph on well-marked roads.
Should You Buy It?
The Volvo V60 looks like a winner for South African families who want premium estate practicality without the SUV price tag. With an estimated starting price around R650,000, it undercuts the BMW 3 Series Touring while offering more boot space than most rivals. The safety tech is proper cutting-edge stuff, and those hybrid options show Volvo's serious about future-proofing. If you can wait for local launch and your budget stretches to R650,000 plus, the V60 should be on your shortlist, especially the sweet-spot T5 model that'll likely hit around R750,000.
