Volvo has almost created a new segment with the introduction of the V60 into the market. Those interested in combining the practicality of a station wagon and the adroitness of the sports car will find that V60 comes close to their preference, at least on paper. But the V60 shows wonderful functionality even as it surprises with its confusing features.

Pros

Buyers of the V60 will be happy to know that they can choose from a number of petrol and diesel engines. A 2.4 litre D5 engine with 202bhp and 2-litre D3 are impressive, but the 1.6 litre DRIVe with 113bhp is cleaner and more practical for everyday use. Petrol buyers can choose from four options, including a 3 litre T6 with 300bhp that can reach 62mph from zero in 6.6 seconds.

Volvo creates the perfect blend of comfort and appeal for any driver of the V60. Body control is firm, and suspension is not in any part weak except on truly rough roads. As opposed to a lot of other cars by the company, passengers of the V60 won’t suffer from road and suspension noise. Great agility is a surprising attribute for this estate car. The cabin also looks classy due to a solid and sound construction.

Security is another great feature with the Volvo V60. The car received a crash rating of five stars from Euro NCAP. Basic features include six airbags, stability control and Volvo’s City Safe system. Getting the Driver Support Pack with Pedestrian Detection System improves the V60’s security feats in addition to adaptive cruise control and blind-spot information.

Behind the wheel, a V60 driver will find that the car is very accommodating. This is where V60 truly shines: supportive and comfortable seats and great all-around visibility with high seating. As for the rear seats, there is plenty of head and legroom for all passengers.

The V60 comes in five different trim levels, making it highly customisable and flexible for all preferences. Additional equipment include climate control, alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, electric seats, and sat-nav.

Cons

Although the DRIVe engines can greatly lower running costs, they may not be enough to rival the car’s competitors. The steering can also be too responsive for some drivers, which may lead them to constantly readjust while on the road. The interior could get a bit noisy because of wind and engine noise. In this context, the model isn’t as refined as its closest competitors.

As a sports wagon, the V60 does not quite deliver the expected boot size it should. But the seats can be folded down flat without any difficulty for increased boot space.

The Volvo V60 may have been marketed as a sport wagon. In reality, its label might be a bit confused. But this is not at all to a disadvantage: for a short estate with the appearance of a coupe, the V60 makes for one comfortable ride out of town. While practicality is highly in question, buyers will find this car quite a luxurious ride in long drives.

Released in 2000, the Volvo V60 made history as the company’s face for their new generation line of sports sedans. To compete with known rivals such as the BMW E46 and the Mercedes Benz C-Class, Swedish brand Volvo continues to make this vehicle better and better to keep up with the changes. Available with a practical and useful safety kit, there is more to the V60 than just its looks. With roomy interiors, the driver and passengers will feel comfortable even after long hours of travelling.

The V60 veers away from the usual image of Volvo estates. Despite the reputation and history of the Swedish manufacturer’s cars, the V60 is affordable and practical. With climate and cruise controls plus a T5 engine, those who fancy an elegant and sleek car will be delighted. Packaged as either a front-wheel or all-wheel drive, admirers of sedans and compact cars will be thrilled to see how polished Volvo V60 is. With the Volvo P2 Platform that is also used for other Volvo models and assembled in four countries, the car embodies the traits that the brand has been known for worldwide. From 2000 to this day, the V60 is still a wise choice for a car.