Popular Volvo XC60 becomes even more attainable with new derivative
Thanks to the ability to receive over-the-air updates, both the vehicle software and the operating system itself will effectively keep improving over time.
Volvo Car South Africa has announced the expansion of its refreshed XC60 range with the launch of an additional variant that renders the Swedish luxury firm’s most popular model even more attainable.
Serving as the opening derivative in the Scandinavian company’s midsize SUV line-up, the new XC60 B5 Front Wheel Drive (FWD) lowers the now six-strong range’s starting price to R750 000 (including VAT). It is available for sale from February 1.
Like all derivatives in the updated XC60 portfolio, the newcomer employs a mild hybrid powertrain that includes a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) capable of recuperating braking energy to charge a 48-volt battery. An integrated starter generator uses this recovered energy to support the turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine and further reduce tailpipe emissions. As a result, the combined fuel consumption figure comes in at just 6.9 litres/100km.
Here driving the front wheels via Volvo’s Geartronic eight-speed automatic transmission, the mild hybrid arrangement delivers peak power of 183kW and maximum torque of 350Nm across a usefully broad rev range (from 1 800 to 4 800r/min). The outcome is brisk performance, with the 0-100km/h sprint completed in a mere seven seconds, or just one-tenth behind the time of its all-wheel-drive siblings.
While the new arrival slots in below the XC60 B5 Momentum AWD, it is by no means short of standard kit. It is equipped with items such as 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, parking assist (front and rear), a reversing camera and inductive smartphone charging, while leather upholstery is optional.
The newcomer furthermore boasts the company’s latest Android-powered infotainment system, complete with built-in Google apps and services. Thanks to the ability to receive over-the-air updates, both the vehicle software and the operating system itself will effectively keep improving over time.
According to Greg Maruszewski, the managing director of Volvo Car South Africa, the new B5 FWD derivative will further cement the XC60’s long-held status as the brand’s top-selling vehicle in the country and the leader in its class.
“The arrival of the new XC60 B5 FWD puts this efficient yet powerful mild hybrid powertrain within reach of more South Africans, giving them the opportunity to experience Volvo’s signature luxury and safety. Market-leading technology such as the new Android-powered infotainment system, meanwhile, offers unparalleled connectivity,” Maruszewski said.
The XC60 has been Volvo’s top-selling vehicle globally since 2009 and was awarded the World Car of the Year title in 2018. A year ago, the American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) handed the XC60 its Top Safety Pick Plus accolade, to go along with the five-star rating it had earned from Euro NCAP earlier.
