Geneva 2008: Volvo XC60

[Overheat]

Volvo's XC60 crossover, smaller and sportier than the XC90, will go into production this autumn.

Three engines will be available from launch: the turbocharged T6 six-cylinder, 3.0-litre petrol engine (now giving 285bhp) and 163bhp and 185bhp 2.4-litre D5 diesels. All these versions have four-wheel-drive, but a front-wheel-drive 163bhp diesel will join the range in 2009. This will be an economical and clean entry-level model meeting the Euro 5 emissions legislation. carbon dioxide emissions will be around the 170g/km mark.

The XC60 will be the first Volvo to feature the City Safety system, a kind of adaptive cruise control which monitors the distance from the car in front and automatically applies the brakes if an impact looks imminent. Stability and traction control are standard, as is hill descent control, and options will include trailer stability assist. Whilst it's not meant to be an all-out off-roader, the XC60 will have ground clearance of 230mm, enabling it to tackle some fairly rough terrain.

Options also include the Four-C active chassis system, with adaptive dampers and selectable comfort, advanced and sport modes, and speed-sensitive power steering, as well as the Geartronic six-speed automatic gearbox. There are new options for trim and upholstery, including Lemon Green highlights, high-gloss or matt woods, plus new paint colours: Terra Bronze and Lime Grass Green.

The XC60 should be reasonably practical, with a 480-litre boot and three-piece split-folding rear seat, and it will come well-equipped. Kit on offer includes a Dolby ProLogic II surround-sound audio system.

Production will be in Ghent, Belgium, and Volvo plans to sell over 50,000 XC60s a year. Sales will start in North America in early 2009.

[Momentum57]

Look for this coming to the joneses garage near you.