2009-2017 Volvo XC60 : What You Should Know Before You Buy

The XC60 is Volvo's most popular vehicle and the current generation is quite remarkable. Moreover, in 2018, a jury made up of around sixty international automotive journalists awarded the new XC60 the title of World Car of the Year. For used vehicle buyers, a 2018 or newer Volvo XC60 may still be covered by the original manufacturer's warranty (4 years/80,000 km), which is not to be overlooked.

If you’re looking at an older unit with a more affordable price tag, make sure it has been inspected and, ideally, you should get an extended warranty. Of course, a certified pre-owned XC60 is the best option. To help guide your decision, here's what you need to know about the 2009 to 2017 XC60.

Turbocharged Six-Cylinder

First, this generation came with a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder T6 engine outputting 281 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine was mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. As early as 2010, Volvo added a naturally aspirated 3.2-litre six-cylinder producing 235 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, resulting in a less expensive XC60 with the option of two- or four-wheel drive.

In 2012, their horsepower ratings increased to 300 and 240 horsepower respectively. The high-performance, top-of-the-line R-Design version pushed the turbo engine to 325 horsepower. As for fuel consumption, it was hovering between 11 and 12 L/100 km.

Some Changes in 2014

The XC60 benefited from a mid-generation update for its 2014 model year. The grille, hood, bumpers and side sills had been redesigned to bring more pizazz to the vehicle. Both engines remained identical…until the following year when the base six-cylinder was replaced by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder called the T5 Drive-E. This one generated the same horsepower at 240, but with 258 lb-ft of torque.

At the same time, the automatic transmission had gained two gears for a total of eight, thereby improving fuel consumption.

A third engine was also part of the lineup, but only for two model years. It was a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder (T5) churning out 250 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque.

In any case, the 2009 to 2017 Volvo XC60 is a smooth and comfortable SUV. It’s very safe (notably with the "City Safety" system capable of automatically braking at low speed to avoid collisions) and equipped with a towing capacity that can exceed 3,000 lbs. Its cabin is not the most spacious, but the excellent seats and the ergonomics will please its occupants.