Volvo XC60

How it looks when you see on the street: 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. Our favorite uncle now is a XC60 driver. This year, we’ve spent seat time in the slightly sportier B6 AWD R-Design and the Recharge plug-in hybrid, which is where the company’s headed in the next few years.

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 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.

How it drives: The 2023 lineup will be made up of mild hybrid, hybrid or electric vehicle, showing off Volvo’s strides toward alternative powertrain. If that doesn’t work for your lifestyle, it’s worth looking into the 2022 R-Design. 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.

Best Features: The arrival of Android Automotive to Volvo’s 2022 model lineup offers a more streamlined infotainment experience. 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 much does it cost: $42,650 and loaded up can cost $70,000.