2018 Volvo V60

Pros: Good cargo versatility with handy 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat; unique available safety equipment; some testers prefer V60’s traditional push-button audio and climate controls to the touchscreen and/or joystick interfaces of many class rivals

Cons: Cramped rear-seat space; stiff ride with available 19-inch tires, acceleration isn’t very linear; unrefined operation of engine start/stop feature

CG Says: The 2018 Volvo V60 drops its base model and the T5 Dynamic is now the least expensive V60. Otherwise, V60 is little changed pending the introduction of a redesigned wagon for 2019. The V60 is essentially a station-wagon version of Volvo’s S60 midsize car. The SUV-flavored T5 Cross Country model has a raised ride height and unique styling features. V60 uses Volvo’s Drive-E 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engines in various states of tune for all models. All engines are mated to an 8-speed transmission and have fuel-saving start/stop function. The T5’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder is rated at 240 horsepower. A supercharged and turbocharged version of the 2.0-liter four is in T6 and Polestar. That engine develops 302-horsepower in T6 and 362 hp in Polestar. Being a Volvo, the V60 is available with a host of safety features, including Lane Keeping Aid and a Pedestrian Detection system that can also detect cyclists. In all, the V60 inherits the virtues and vices of its S60 sedan sibling, but its extra cargo capacity and surprisingly swoopy styling give it a unique character that stands out in the premium midsize-car class. Still, we recommend checking out the competitive wagons from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz as well.