Volvo XC60
How it looks when you see on the street: We’ll say it again: It’s the small, svelte SUV that strikes the right notes at first look and checks so many boxes that it stays at the top of our recommendation list in all various formats for its most recent 2024 glow up. Back in 2018, XC60 was the World Car of the Year and it remains a solid option as both a gas and plug-in hybrid option. Our most recent cruise was in the XC60 T8 AWD Polestar. In past years, we’ve spent seat time in the slightly sportier B6 AWD R-Design and the Recharge plug-in hybrid. New additions include a standard air purifier. The various trims range across the plug-in hybrid (once called “recharge”) and gas ranges including core, ultra and Polestar-engineered.
How it makes you feel when you get in: The interior is where the XC60 shines — it’s clean, modern and thoughtful use of materials stands out. Each of the five seats are also quite comfortable and spacious for long drives. Leather seats are optional, but the vegan materials feel like a well-loved classic sweater in the most inviting way. Blind-spot monitoring with steering assist, cross-traffic alert with Autobrake, and lane-keep assist are some of the safety features. A whole slew of Google apps and services come loaded up on board. Volvo opts for less distraction than more in its tech, so some of the bells and whistle need to be consciously selected by the driver. We love the Bowers & Wilkins unit that features 15 speakers and 1,110 watts of power.
How it drives: The current lineup is made up of two different engines — a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a plug-in hybrid system, showing off Volvo’s strides toward alternative powertrain. The XC60 is not the ride you get to win races, but more of a confident cruiser infused with all the safety tech imaginable.
Space for people and things: In the small crossover segment, Volvo shows off its sensible Scandinavian knack for proportional design in seating position and cargo areas.
What to compare it to: BMW X3, Genesis GV70, Mercedes-Benz GLC.
How much does it cost: It starts at $48,345 and tops out at $76,545, for the most recent model we drove.