Model Overview: 2012 Volvo XC60
07/07/2011
Vovlo
Volvo refines the lineup of its revolutionary XC60 Small Premium Utility as it enters its third model year. The XC60 continues to captivate a new generation of Volvo buyers as well as attracting those who are loyal to the brand. Three distinct levels of performance are now available to satisfy the desires of a wide range of drivers.
For 2012, Volvo turns up the heat for the top XC60 T6 AWD R-Design by providing enthusiasts with a substantial performance upgrade. Its 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine now delivers 325 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque, for net gains of 25 hp and 29 lb.-ft. respectively. The R-Design continues to be fitted with a stiffer chassis than other XC60s. It features stronger damping and a more direct steering gear that allows the driver to benefit from more alert vehicle behavior and more precise communication with the road surface.
The midrange XC60 T6 AWD continues to offer an impressive blend of performance with outstanding value. Output for its 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder remains the same as last year with 300 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque. All turbocharged XC60s are fitted with Volvo's All-Wheel-Drive with Instant Traction. A new Dynamic Package, available exclusively for the T6 AWD, includes Volvo's FOUR-C Active Chassis (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept), speed-sensitive power steering and dual xenon gas discharge headlights with Active Bending Light (ABL).
Those seeking the greatest value in an XC60 will be attracted to the 3.2. Its naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine provides 240 horsepower with ULEV II emissions rating or 230 horsepower with PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) rating. Front-wheel drive is standard while AWD is optional. Every XC60 features a standard 6-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission.
Volvo has introduced a new trim level strategy for 2012 offering customers the flexibility to add additional features. These new trim levels contain previously optional equipment that has been grouped together for convenience. Buyers can still choose the XC60 3.2, T6 AWD and R-Design without a trim level if desired.
The new Premier trim level, offered exclusively for the 3.2, adds leather seating surfaces, a Panoramic Roof with two laminated glass panels and power sunshade, dark tint rear windows, silver roof rails and side window trim, aluminum inlays for the steering wheel and a power passenger seat.
All XC60s can be enhanced with the new Premier Plus trim level. Features include a power tailgate with new programmable memory setting, Keyless Drive with Personal Car Communicator (PCC) and two-way car communication, front and rear park assist, Homelink remote garage door opener, a compass for the rear view mirror, a rear cargo cover, grocery bag holder and 12-volt power outlet, plus power folding rear head restraints.
The new Platinum trim level includes all the features of Premier Plus while adding more technology. It gains the Volvo Premium Sound System with Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R) II Surround Sound, 12 premium speakers and 650 watts. Also included is a Navigation System with real time traffic, remote control and map care plus a rear park assist camera.
Customers retain the flexibility to add option packages to any XC60, as well as select individual items from the list of stand-alone options.
Continuing Volvo's quest as a pioneer and leader in vehicle safety systems, the XC60 introduced a new world's first. City Safety is a driver support system aimed at preventing or mitigating collisions occurring at speeds of 19 mph or less. It utilizes a closing velocity sensor to help determine whether a collision is likely. Depending on the closing speed, City Safety will either pre-charge the brakes or automatically brake the XC60 to help avoid a rear-end collision or lessen its impact.
A Technology Package is available on all XC60s. It includes preventative safety technologies focusing on preventing driver distractions that studies show cause up to 90 percent of all traffic accidents. Based on this statistic, Volvo developed efficient features to help drivers avoid or reduce the severity of accidents caused by distraction and driver fatigue. The package includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Queue Assist, Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake (CWAB), Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake, Distance Alert (DA), Driver Alert Control (DAC) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW).
From every angle, the XC60's dramatic style takes Volvo design DNA to the next level by artfully blending muscular lower body cues capped off by a sporty coupe-like greenhouse. The XC60 features a charismatic strong shoulder line with expressive design elements front and rear.
A trapezoidal grille wears a large Volvo iron mark for instant brand recognition whether it's filling the rear view mirror of the car in front or facing the rigors of a daily commute. For added distinction, LED taillights that illuminate the full shape of the shoulder line flank the rear liftgate design.
Large 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels along with 9.1 inches of ground clearance enable the XC60 to traverse terrain that would be impossible in a conventional passenger car. Enhanced Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) is standard along with Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) that helps provide more stable driving when towing.
The R-Design models give the XC60 an even bolder appearance. Standard features include 20-inch "Cratus" alloy wheels, color-matched lower body moldings and a metallic-themed interior with unique aluminum inserts in the steering wheel, door moldings and the iconic center stack. It also maintains typical R-design attributes like silk metal finish outside mirror housings, trim moldings, skid plates, twin chrome tailpipes and the R-Design logo embossed in the front seat backrests and displayed on the grille.
Inside, the XC60's cabin reflects the dynamic energy generated by the exterior. The signature ultra-slim center control panel houses the standard Volvo Sensus system. This conveniently enables drivers to manage information from the audio unit, navigation system (if equipped) and other functions, displaying them onto a seven-inch high-definition color monitor. It allows the driver to explore the high-tech features of the car and personalize them to suit their needs.
The elegant appearance of Classic Walnut wood is available to enhance the ambience of the XC60's interior. Classic Walnut wood inlays and steering wheel are new individual options offered for 3.2 and T6 AWD.
The XC60 was the first Volvo with standard HD Radio that updates radio signals to digital quality. FM broadcast quality equals the level of a typical CD while AM broadcast quality rivals the prior level of FM. The XC60's standard high performance sound system includes BluetoothTM streaming audio, AUX and USB inputs to allow connection and control of personal music devices such as iPodsTM, memory sticks and other media players.
Sirius XMTM satellite radio with a complimentary six-month subscription and Bluetooth hands-free phone interface with audio streaming are also standard.