The demand for SUV’s is still very strong in Malaysia. This is why Volvo Malaysia has decided to locally assemble the XC60 to cater to this growing demand. Sweetening the deal is a new 2-liter Turbo engine mated to a 6-speed semi-automatic Powershift gearbox. The BMW X1 (local assembled) which costs more does not even have 50% of this XC60’s safety, dynamic and family features and yet costs more. The X1 is also smaller with less road dynamics. Only the Audi Q5 comes close but has an 11 month waiting list. Let’s take a closer look at the all-new XC60 2-liter Turbo.
One look at the exterior and you see a design language straight from the concept pages of a far-reaching designer. Stylish and ultra modern in its final execution, this XC60 is a lovely sight but one that needs more time with the untrained eye to fully appreciate.
Volvo engineers focused on improving ride and handling, lowering the ride height and widening the front and rear tracks all of which complements a revised four-wheel independent suspension that sends better driving dynamics just minutes at the wheel, if you come from driving the larger and more accomplished XC90.
The large wheels and bold wheel arches further enhances the muscular feel, while the dynamic, flowing lines of the greenhouse combined with its daring roof contour impart a sporty coupe feel to the upper part of the car. The rear design is characterized by high mounted tail lamps with micro-optics and LED technology. The high-tech interior is driver-oriented and imparts a dynamic feel. The lines on the panels and surfaces connect the various interior panels with each other to create a harmonious style. Thick and thin lines contribute to the XC profile.
The characteristic Volvo floating centre console gives a sporty impression. The centre console is slightly angled towards the driver to enhance driver dynamics. Rear passengers get 2 video screens with individual cordless headphones. A segment 1st is a 2-stage two child booster seats in the rear which makes it possibly the best family vehicle to have today.
Under the hood of this XC60 resides Volvo’ fresh 2-liter, 16-valve Turbo engine. It is good for 203 horsepower and 300Nm of torque. Teamed with Volvo’s new seamless dual clutch six-speed automatic, the 2-liter had little trouble spurring our test vehicle along the twists and turns as we made our way past many palm oil plantations on route to Kuala Selangor.
The short turning radius makes it easy to maneuver in tight spots like a mall car park. If you decide to light up the asphalt or take a fast drive along a long and winding village road, this XC60 will oblige in a flash. Judders and rattles are absent and this XC60 feels as solid as a bank vault. One of the most convenient of the car’s many gadgets was its rear camera which, when reversing, displays what’s behind the car and the side view mirror tilts downwards for a better view.
Volvo has done a great job with this new locally assembled XC60 with all the legendary safety features like City Safety, Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control and Roll Stability Control included in the asking price. It drives better, feels more muscular it goes down the road more smoothly and quietly, more like a car and less like a high riding 4×4. This is a total package for someone looking for an alternative to an executive sedan.
Volvo XC60 Local Assembled Specifications
Engine:
4-cylinder DOHC Alloy
Displacement(cc):
1999cc
Power bhp at RPM:
203 @ 6000
Torque Nm at RPM:
300 @ 1750-4000
Gearbox: 6-speed Geartronic Powershift
Acceleration 0-100km/h:
8.9secs
Top Speed km/h:
205km/h
Selling Price :
RM281,950.00
