The 2017 Volvo XC60 T5 stands out in the crowded luxury crossover SUV segment, offering a blend of Scandinavian design, cutting-edge safety features, and impressive performance. It represents a pivotal point for Volvo, as the XC60 became one of the brand’s best-selling models globally, and the T5 model highlights why.
The 2017 XC60 T5 offers everything you would expect from a luxury SUV, including a refined interior, advanced technology, and a comfortable ride, all wrapped in a stylish and modern package. In a market filled with numerous options, Volvo managed to craft a vehicle that stays true to its legacy of safety while pushing boundaries in terms of comfort and design.
Volvo’s dedication to design is evident in the 2017 XC60 T5. The exterior boasts a sleek yet muscular profile characterized by clean lines, sharp edges, and a confident stance. Unlike many of its competitors, the XC60 strikes a delicate balance between elegance and ruggedness, making it equally at home in an upscale urban setting or on a rugged country road.
The front of the vehicle is highlighted by Volvo’s signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights. This design element gives the XC60 a distinctive presence on the road, setting it apart from other vehicles in the same segment. The bold grille, with the iconic Volvo badge prominently displayed, adds to the SUV’s assertive look, while subtle chrome accents provide a touch of sophistication.
Moving to the rear, the wraparound taillights give the vehicle an elegant finish and provide excellent visibility for those driving behind. The rear bumper is designed with practicality in mind, featuring a skid plate that hints at the XC60’s off-road capabilities. The power-operated tailgate adds convenience, making loading and unloading cargo an effortless task, which is especially handy during grocery runs or family outings.
The interior is equally impressive, showcasing high-quality materials like leather, wood, and soft-touch plastics that come together to create a luxurious cabin. Volvo’s signature minimalist design is evident throughout the interior, with a clutter-free dashboard that emphasizes functionality without overwhelming the driver with too many buttons or controls. The use of natural materials, such as the available driftwood trim, adds a touch of Scandinavian charm that feels both modern and timeless.
The seats are another highlight of the XC60 T5’s interior. Volvo is known for its exceptional seat design, and the XC60 is no exception. The ergonomic seats are supportive and comfortable, making long drives much more enjoyable. The front seats are power-adjustable and come with optional heating and ventilation, ensuring that both driver and passenger are comfortable regardless of the weather. The rear seats offer ample space for passengers, with enough legroom and headroom to accommodate adults comfortably. The seats also feature a 40/20/40 split-folding design, allowing for flexibility when transporting larger items.
Under the hood, the 2017 Volvo XC60 T5 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces 240 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This power is delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and quick acceleration. The T5 engine strikes a fine balance between performance and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for those who want a versatile SUV that can handle both city driving and long road trips.
The turbocharged engine provides ample power for most driving situations, whether you’re merging onto the highway or passing slower vehicles. The XC60 T5 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over 6.8 seconds, which is impressive for an SUV of its size and weight. While it may not be the fastest in its class, the T5 delivers a level of performance that feels more than adequate for everyday driving. The engine is also refined, with minimal noise and vibration making its way into the cabin, even under hard acceleration.
Fuel efficiency is another strong point for the XC60 T5. With an EPA rating of 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, it offers competitive fuel economy for the segment. This makes it an excellent option for those who want a luxury SUV that won’t break the bank at the pump. The combination of a turbocharged engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission helps to optimize fuel consumption, providing a balance between power and efficiency.
The XC60 T5’s suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing most road imperfections with ease. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a smooth ride over sporty handling. The suspension setup strikes a good balance between comfort and control, allowing the XC60 to remain composed on winding roads without feeling overly stiff or harsh. The available all-wheel-drive system further enhances the XC60’s versatility, providing added traction in wet or slippery conditions. This feature makes the XC60 a capable companion for winter driving or light off-road adventures.
Volvo is synonymous with safety, and the 2017 XC60 T5 doesn’t disappoint in this regard. It comes with a range of advanced safety technologies that were ahead of their time, reinforcing Volvo’s commitment to protecting both drivers and passengers. The XC60 T5’s safety features not only help to prevent accidents but also provide peace of mind for drivers and their families.
Standard safety features include Volvo’s City Safety system, which uses sensors to detect potential collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists. If a potential collision is detected, the system can automatically apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate the impact. This feature is particularly useful in urban environments, where sudden stops and unpredictable movements by other road users are common.
In addition to City Safety, the XC60 T5 offers a suite of optional safety features that further enhance its safety profile. Adaptive cruise control helps to maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front, reducing the need for constant adjustments during highway driving. Lane-keeping assist gently steers the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift, while blind-spot monitoring provides an extra layer of awareness when changing lanes. These features work together to create a comprehensive safety package that makes driving the XC60 T5 a stress-free experience.
The 2017 XC60 also features a strong body structure designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The use of high-strength steel and strategically placed crumple zones helps to absorb and dissipate energy during an impact, reducing the risk of injury. The XC60’s solid construction, combined with its advanced safety features, earned it high safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The 2017 XC60 T5 offers a comfortable, refined driving experience that emphasizes ease of use and relaxation. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort, making it well-suited for long drives or daily commutes. Road imperfections are absorbed with ease, resulting in a smooth and composed ride that keeps passengers comfortable even on rough surfaces.
While the XC60 T5 isn’t a sports car, it offers a level of agility that makes it enjoyable to drive. The steering is precise and responsive, though some may find it a bit light compared to sportier rivals. This light steering feel makes the XC60 easy to maneuver in tight spaces, such as parking lots or narrow city streets. The XC60’s handling is predictable and confidence-inspiring, with minimal body roll when taking corners at moderate speeds.
The available all-wheel-drive system adds an extra layer of capability to the XC60 T5, making it a suitable choice for those who live in areas with harsh weather conditions. The system automatically adjusts power distribution between the front and rear wheels, providing optimal traction on wet, snowy, or icy roads. This feature, combined with the XC60’s 9.1 inches of ground clearance, makes it a good option for those who occasionally venture off the beaten path or need a vehicle that can handle winter driving conditions with ease.
Inside the 2017 XC60 T5, you’ll find a tech-rich cabin that caters to modern drivers. The Sensus Connect infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, though some may find the screen a bit small compared to the large touchscreens found in newer vehicles. The system features navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration, allowing drivers to stay connected while on the road. The available voice control feature makes it easy to operate the infotainment system without taking your hands off the wheel, enhancing both convenience and safety.
For those who enjoy listening to music while driving, the XC60 T5 offers a range of audio options to suit different tastes. The standard sound system provides clear and balanced audio, while the available Harman Kardon premium sound system takes the listening experience to the next level. With crisp highs, deep bass, and excellent overall sound quality, the Harman Kardon system is perfect for those who appreciate high-quality audio.
The XC60 T5 also offers a range of convenience features that make driving more enjoyable. Keyless entry and push-button start make it easy to get in and go, while the available panoramic sunroof adds an open and airy feel to the cabin. The dual-zone automatic climate control system allows both the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperature, ensuring that everyone stays comfortable regardless of the weather outside.
The 2017 Volvo XC60 T5 is an excellent option for those looking for a stylish, safe, and efficient luxury SUV. Its performance is solid, though not exceptional, but it makes up for that with advanced safety features, a premium interior, and Volvo’s trademark comfort. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands around town, or embarking on a family road trip, the XC60 T5 delivers a well-rounded driving experience that’s hard to beat in its class.
One of the XC60 T5’s standout qualities is its ability to age gracefully. Even several years after its release, the 2017 XC60 remains a compelling choice in the used car market. Its timeless design, advanced safety features, and comfortable interior make it a smart investment for those who want a luxury SUV without the hefty price tag of a brand-new model. The XC60’s reputation for reliability and Volvo’s commitment to quality further add to its appeal, making it a vehicle that can provide years of enjoyable driving.
For anyone seeking a midsize luxury crossover that prioritizes design, safety, and comfort, the 2017 Volvo XC60 T5 is a vehicle that continues to impress. It may not be the sportiest or most powerful SUV in its class, but it excels in areas that matter most to many buyers—comfort, safety, and practicality. Whether you’re drawn to its Scandinavian design, advanced safety features, or versatile performance, the XC60 T5 is a luxury SUV that deserves a closer look.
The 2017 Volvo XC60 T5 is more than just a luxury SUV—it’s a testament to Volvo’s dedication to creating vehicles that enhance the quality of life for their drivers and passengers. From its comfortable and well-crafted interior to its advanced safety features, the XC60 embodies the values that have made Volvo a trusted name in the automotive industry for decades.
In a segment dominated by German and Japanese rivals, the XC60 stands out by offering something different. It’s not trying to be the fastest or the flashiest SUV on the market. Instead, it focuses on providing a balanced driving experience that emphasizes comfort, safety, and thoughtful design. For those who appreciate these qualities, the 2017 XC60 T5 is a vehicle that delivers on its promises and continues to be a standout choice in the world of luxury SUVs.
