Volvo made quite an impression when it launched the XC60. Possessing considerably sharper looks than its bigger XC90 brother, this compact SUV has been designed primarily for on-road, rather than off-road use, although AWD variants are offered. Undergoing a facelift earlier this year, the 2013 model has a more dynamic look featuring LED rear lights and upmarket feel in the cabin, although the mechanicals have remained unchanged.

Once inside you’re greeted to a stylish, modern and spacious cabin which is showcased by Volvo’s visually appealing floating centre console and Sensus infotainment system. Although the majority of the features are easy-to-use, some of the sat-nav directions lacked clarity and the input method isn’t as intuitive as touch-screen alternatives.

What does impress is the car’s PremiumSound audio system, featuring a 5x130W amplifier and 12 loudspeakers.

On the practicality front the XC60 scores well, with a generous 495 litre boot capacity and a 40/20/40 split rear seat configuration, extending rear load space to a cavernous 1455 litres. Rear accommodation is commodious, too, with only very tall passengers likely to be short on headroom. There are plenty of cubbies dotted around the cabin for family paraphernalia, although the door bins are on the small side.

The XC60 has a commanding and comfortable driving position and you feel very safe and secure once aboard. As you’d expect of a Volvo, there are lots of electronic safety systems, from simple seatbelt reminders to other more advanced warning intervention alerts, including Lane Assist, Bliss (Blind Spot Warning System). New optional safety equipment includes Road Sign Information, Active High Beam and Tunnel Detection.

XC60 is offered with a selection of diesel engines, which all emit 139g/km of CO2, regardless of power output. There’s also a top-of-the-range T6 petrol, which has the oomph to worry hot-hatches.

Fitted with the 163 bhp 2.0 litre 5-cylinder diesel engine affords the Swedish compact SUV with adequately strong performance. The motor’s relaxed and smooth power delivery makes for easy cruising. It also has an interesting offbeat sound – particularly when extended, but can become a bit rattly at lower speeds. Real world on-road economy of this automatic ‘Geartronic’ model is 35-40 mpg (less than the manual version).

Without doubt, the XC60s biggest overall strength is the way it cossets its occupants. From the big comfy leather seats to the impressive suppression of wind, road and suspension noise. Which is perhaps just as well, because the slightly numb steering and the car’s overall heft, prevents it from offering much engagement for the keener driver, although never feeling unwieldy. The adaptive suspension also has the ability to firm-up the tension of the dampers, thereby reducing body roll, but it does so at the expense of ride comfort.

Verdict:
The XC60’s breadth of talents has always made it the perfect family workhorse and long distance cruiser. 2013 revisions have now freshened up the appeal of Volvo’s compact SUV.

Tech spec:
XC60 D4 SE Nav FWD
OTR Price: £33,735.00
Engine: 2.0-litre 5cyl, diesel
0-62 mph: 10.3 seconds
Max Torque: 400 Nm at 1500-2750 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Combined MPG: 47.1 (claimed)
CO2 emissions: (g/km) 159