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Double Apex was invited to the national media ride-and-drive event of the refreshed Volvo XC60, recently held in the Western Cape winelands.
Volvo was once known for its boxy sedans and stationwagons. The Swedish brand has transitioned to offering more SUVs than any other body style, and made a real success of it. The XC60 is a prime example of this success. Earlier this year it became the best-selling Volvo of all time as it reached global sales exceeding 2,7 million units… pretty impressive.
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So, what’s new?
Volvo has played the if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it card with the refreshed XC60. And it makes sense, too, if you consider a sales tally as large at the XC60 has amassed to date. However, there are a few notable changes. Among these are a new grille design with angled slats. These are complemented by darkened taillamps surrounds. In addition there are new alloy wheel designs on offer. These range from 18- all the way up to 22-inches in diameter.
There are also changes inside the cabin. The most notable revision in the interior is the new infotainment screen. The touchscreen interface is larger, at 11,2-inches with a new, faster processor. Volvo hasn’t really redesigned the facia. As a result the new screen sits proud of the dashboard, which is a bit of a bummer, considering how neatly integrated everything else is. Eagle-eyed Volvonatics (Is that really a term? – Ed), or more likely owners of the pre-facelift XC60, may note the redesigned cup holders, and relocated wireless mobile phone charger. There are also some new upholstery options, which new buyers will get to spec to their tastes.
Click here to read our driving review of the pre-facelift Volvo XC60 T6 R-Design variant.
Two Engines
The refreshed Volvo XC60 remains mechanically unchanged, which is not a bad thing. The model has been a more relaxed foil to the likes of the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Porsche Cayenne, which all seem to have a sporting bent. The Volvo’s more loping gait and relaxed demeanour was evident during our brief drive of the model in and around the Paarl and Franschhoek areas.
As the model gains a slightly new look, Volvo SA has taken the opportunity to slim down the range. There are just two engines on offer. The B5 is powered by a 2,0-litre turbopetrol engine that produces 183 kW and 350 N.m. At the top of the line-up is the T8, which is a plug-in hybrid that uses petrol and electric power for propulsion. As a result it has 340 kW and massive 709 N.m of torque on tap. In addition, there is an electric-only range of up to 81 km. Both powertrains are mated with eight-speed automatic transmissions and AWD as standard.
A New Era
The changes to the Volvo XC60 do nothing to take away from the initial quality offering that it is. It seems that the model may be around for a while yet. However, it will be joined by an all-electric sibling from next year in the shape of the EX60. That car has a lot resting on its shoulder as it will aim to take the top-selling mid-size SUV into the electrified era. Until that day arrives, fans of the brand have a perfectly good option in the shape of the stylish, if ageing, XC60.
Refreshed Volvo XC60 Pricing
B5 Core – R1 058 400
B5 Plus – R1 116 300
T8 PHEV Plus – R1 460 800
XC60 T8 PHEV Ultra – R1 500 700
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