New 2010 Volvo XC60

It didn’t take long for Volvo to throw their hat into the emerging SUV/crossover ring with the all-new, sleek, safe and impressive 2010 Volvo XC60.

A smaller version of the popular XC90 SUV, the XC60 has one trim level, the T6, and is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter, 281-horsepower inline-six-cylinder engine that produces 295 pounds-feet of torque. That is one of the more powerful base engines you will find in a crossover and it is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that incorporates Sport and clutchless-manual modes. All-wheel drive comes standard and the XC60 reaches 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The XC60 competes with the Acura RDX and Land Rover LR2 for luxury crossover dominance.

The XC60 might be a crossover, but it has the ability to seat up to seven passengers with an optional third-row seat. A laminated panoramic roof is optional and makes nature’s beauty accessible to all occupants. Leather interior is standard and comes in several vibrant colors such as: Soft Beige/Espresso Brown and Off-Black/Lemon Green. The standard audio system includes RDS radio, MP3 and WMA-compatible CD player, AUX input and eight high performance loudspeakers, while Volvo’s Premium Sound system incorporates Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound and 12 speakers. Bluetooth connectivity, Sirius Satellite Radio and an iPod/USB interface all come standard. Volvo’s Navigation System with Real Time Traffic helps you find the quickest route to your destination via a 6.5-inch color widescreen display.

Safety is the Volvo’s bread and butter and the XC60 is no exception. Antilock brakes, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, an electronic stability system with Roll Stability Control, lane departure warning, blind-spot warning and a backup camera are just a few of the integral safety features. The City Safety feature recognizes when a low-speed collision is about to happen and abruptly applies the brakes to prevent fender-benders. If you’re transporting precious cargo, the Dual Outboard Two-Stage Integrated Booster Seats with Adaptive Seatbelts and Power Child Locks allow your children to sit higher up, while the seats have two height levels to fit children of different sizes and ages.

The all-new 2010 Volvo XC60 luxury crossover keeps it simple and safe but still offers utility and power for an impressive entry in this fast-growing segment.