Volvo XC60 (2013-2017) review

The engine lineup was revamped in early 2015 and the new four-cylinder diesel is a vast improvement in terms of refinement and efficiency compared to the outgoing five-cylinder versions.

We tested the D4 AWD model in 2015 and were impressed by the punch from the engine when overtaking and getting up to speed on motorway slip roads – although the eight-speed automatic gearbox can be a bit jerky on upshifts when accelerating hard. We averaged 40mpg on long motorway journeys – not miles off the official figure of 54.1mpg.

Producing 190hp, the D4 matches the old 2.4-litre in power, but has much better running costs – averaging more than 60mpg and costing just £30 per year to tax.

The 220hp five-cylinder D5 has plenty of power, yet performance and combined fuel economy are near identical to the D4’s, so its increased asking price is hard to justify. However, if you plan on towing with your XC60, the D5’s increased pulling power will come in handy. A 0-62mph time of 8.1 seconds seems decent, but a BMW X3 20d with just 190hp has the same acceleration time. Specifying four-wheel drive reduces fuel economy by about 10mpg across the range.

With those punchy and frugal diesels there is little sense in getting the petrol-powered XC60 T5. If you despise diesel engines, then it’s a lively unit that provides swift progress and is very similar to the one in the Ford Focus ST hot hatch. The T5 has the quickest 0-62mph time in the range at 7.2 seconds, but also the worst fuel consumption figure at 33mpg and the most expensive annual road tax at £270.

The XC60 is far better suited to life on road – it drives nicely, has a smooth ride and is quiet at high speeds, making it a superb motorway cruiser. The suspension deals with most bumps, but does occasionally thump over expansion joints and potholes on the road.

Visibility is reasonable and the handy £500 blind spot warning system illuminates orange lights next to the door mirrors to warn of approaching vehicles that are hidden from sight.