2017 Volvo XC60: 5 things to know

The Volvo XC60 looks like a shrunken XC90, and, in many ways, that parallel is not wrong; after all, it gets a whole lot of tech and features borrowed from its big brother. Available in only one fully loaded variant, with just one powertrain on offer for now, the XC60 is a tempting package as far as mid-size luxury SUVs go. Get yourself up to date on Sweden’s latest with our comprehensive 5-things-to-know list:

1. It has much in common with the larger XC90:
The XC60 has much in common with its accomplished elder sibling, the XC90. First up, they are both built on the same Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. Both come powered by the same 2.0-litre bi-turbo Diesel engine that makes a strong 235hp; and both come with eight-speed auto gearboxes and all-wheel drive. Visually, the XC60 follows Volvo's new look that debuted on the XC90, and like all new Volvo's features, gets the distinctive Thor’s Hammer LED daytime running lights. However, the XC60 is no clone of the XC90. It's smaller, offers two rows of seating only and is different in profile too courtesy a lower roof and a distinctly raked D-pillar that immediately links this model to its predecessor.

2. There’s just one powertrain option...for now:
The XC60 has been launched with a single powertrain option – the aforementioned 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 235hp and 480Nm of torque. The engine stands out for its use of compressed air to minimise turbo lag at low revs.  Interesting as the tech is and strong as the engine is, it won't be the only powertrain on offer. Volvo will expand the line up with a petrol engine, or perhaps a hybrid, further down the line.

3. There’s going to be a Tech Pack:
The XC60 comes loaded with a host of tech and features as standard – there’ll be a 15-speaker Bowers and Wilkins audio system, 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 12.3-inch instrument cluster, heated front and rear seats, a panoramic sunroof and a powered boot-lid. The launch version, however, features something called the Tech Pack, which adds features such as air suspension, Nappa leather upholstery, ventilated front seats with a massage function, a heads-up display, 360-degree parking system and the BLIS Cross-Traffic alert system. The regular version that will go on sale after the launch version has run out and will offer the Tech Pack as an optional add-on.

4. The XC60, as expected, is big on safety:
All Volvos are big on safety and the XC90 is no exception. Apart from the usual bevy of electronic nannies and airbags, the XC60 also features radar-based driver assistance systems such as the BLIS Cross-Traffic alert system with steering assist and city safety, oncoming traffic mitigation, adaptive cruise control, pilot assist, lane assist, blind spot detection, pedestrian, cyclist and large animal detection and a whole lot more.

5. The price tag reads Rs 55.9 lakh:
The XC60’s single variant is priced at Rs 55.9 lakh (ex-showroom, India), putting it in competition with the top-end variants of the BMW X3 (Rs 54 lakh), Mercedes GLC (Rs 51.73 lakh) and Land Rover Discovery Sport (Rs 55.47 lakh) (all prices, ex-showroom).