Volvo V60 I Cross Country 2.4 D4 (190 Hp) AWD Automatic

The Volvo V60 I Cross Country 2.4 D4 (190 Hp) AWD Automatic: A European All-Rounder

The Volvo V60 I Cross Country, specifically the 2.4 D4 (190 Hp) AWD Automatic variant produced from 2016 to 2018, represents a distinctive chapter in Volvo’s long-standing tradition of offering versatile and robust station wagons. Positioned in the premium mid-size segment, the V60 Cross Country was designed to combine the elegant practicality of a V60 wagon with enhanced all-weather capability and a more rugged aesthetic. While the standard V60 was a strong contender in its class, the Cross Country variant aimed at consumers seeking a vehicle capable of tackling light off-road conditions and navigating challenging climates, without fully committing to a traditional SUV.

This particular iteration, powered by Volvo’s potent 2.4-liter D4 diesel engine, was predominantly marketed in Europe and other international regions where diesel powertrains were highly favored for their efficiency and strong torque output. It offered a compelling blend of performance, fuel economy, and Volvo’s renowned safety features, packaged in an adventurous yet sophisticated design. The V60 I Cross Country served as a bridge between conventional wagons and full-fledged SUVs, carving out a niche for itself by delivering a refined driving experience on pavement while possessing the ground clearance and all-wheel-drive traction to venture off the beaten path.

Engine and Performance: The 2.4 D4 Powerhouse in the Volvo V60 I Cross Country

At the heart of the 2016-2018 Volvo V60 I Cross Country 2.4 D4 AWD Automatic lies Volvo’s venerable D5244T21 engine, a 2.4-liter, inline five-cylinder diesel powerplant. This unique five-cylinder configuration, a signature of Volvo engineering for many years, contributed to a distinctive engine note and a broad torque band, making it particularly well-suited for a vehicle designed for both highway cruising and varied terrain. The engine utilized a sophisticated Twin-Turbo setup combined with an intercooler, ensuring efficient combustion and robust power delivery across the rev range. Fueling was managed by a common-rail direct injection system, a hallmark of modern diesel engines, optimizing both performance and fuel efficiency.

The D4 engine generated a healthy 190 horsepower at 4000 rpm, delivering a power-per-liter figure of 79.2 Hp/l. More impressively for a diesel, it produced a substantial 309.78 lb.-ft. of torque, available from a low 1500 rpm and sustained up to 3000 rpm. This wide torque plateau was crucial for strong acceleration and effortless towing, making the Cross Country a capable hauler. Power was transmitted through an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission, which seamlessly managed gear changes to optimize both performance and fuel economy. The standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system ensured confident traction in diverse conditions, from slippery roads to unpaved trails.

Performance figures for this powertrain were commendable for a vehicle of its size and type. The V60 I Cross Country 2.4 D4 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 8.5 seconds, with a top speed of 127.38 mph. Despite its capability, the diesel engine maintained impressive fuel efficiency, boasting a combined economy of 41.3 US mpg (5.7 l/100 km). Urban consumption was rated at 34.6 US mpg (6.8 l/100 km) and extra-urban at 46.1 US mpg (5.1 l/100 km), demonstrating the inherent efficiency benefits of diesel technology, especially on longer journeys. CO2 emissions were kept to a respectable 149 g/km, reflecting its relatively clean operation for a diesel of its era.

Design and Features: Rugged Elegance and Scandinavian Practicality

The Volvo V60 I Cross Country distinguished itself from the standard V60 through several key design elements aimed at enhancing its adventurous character. Its body type was a fusion of a traditional station wagon and a crossover, offering the best of both worlds. The most noticeable change was a significantly increased ride height, providing 7.91 inches (201 mm) of ground clearance, a substantial improvement over the standard V60 and comparable to many compact SUVs. This elevated stance was complemented by protective black plastic body cladding around the wheel arches, sills, and lower bumpers, designed to guard against minor scrapes and give it a more rugged appearance.

Visually, the V60 Cross Country retained the elegant lines of the V60 wagon, characterized by Volvo’s distinctive “shoulders” and a sleek profile, but infused with a dose of utilitarianism. The front fascia featured a unique grille and skid plate elements, further emphasizing its readiness for varied terrain. Full dimensions included a length of 182.56 inches, a width of 71.85 inches (82.56 inches including mirrors), and a height of 60.83 inches. The 109.21-inch wheelbase contributed to a stable and comfortable ride.

Inside, the V60 I Cross Country embodied classic Scandinavian design principles: minimalist, ergonomic, and crafted with high-quality materials. The cabin offered comfortable seating for five occupants, emphasizing long-distance comfort and support. As a Volvo, safety was paramount. While specific features like collision avoidance systems or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) would vary by trim and market, the V60 generation was built on Volvo’s reputation for robust passive and active safety. Standard features would typically include multiple airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and a suite of stability control systems. The practicality of the station wagon body was evident in its cargo capacity, offering a generous 43.83 cubic feet (1241 liters) of minimum trunk space, expandable by folding the rear seats. The thoughtful design extended to practical elements like a 17.83 US gallon fuel tank capacity and a permitted trailer load of up to 4188.78 lbs with brakes (8% gradient), highlighting its utility for active lifestyles.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact of the Volvo V60 I Cross Country

The Volvo V60 I Cross Country 2.4 D4 (190 Hp) AWD Automatic played a significant role in Volvo’s broader strategy to diversify its offerings and cater to a wider range of consumer preferences, particularly in European markets. Its introduction underscored Volvo’s commitment to the station wagon format, which remains immensely popular in Europe, while simultaneously addressing the growing demand for vehicles with enhanced capability and a more rugged appearance. For many years, Volvo has been synonymous with robust, safe, and practical wagons, and the Cross Country line extended this heritage by adding a layer of adventurous appeal.

In its primary markets, the V60 I Cross Country competed with a select group of premium rugged wagons, most notably the Audi A4 Allroad quattro. While the Subaru Outback also occupies a similar niche, the Volvo V60 Cross Country positioned itself at a more premium level, offering a higher degree of interior luxury, sophisticated design, and advanced safety features. Its unique five-cylinder diesel engine, though eventually phased out for newer four-cylinder Drive-E units, was a distinct selling point, offering a blend of smooth power delivery, strong torque, and impressive fuel economy that was highly valued in regions with higher fuel prices and a greater appreciation for diesel technology.

The V60 Cross Country’s reputation was built on Volvo’s core values: unparalleled safety, reliability, and thoughtful design. Its elevated ride height and standard all-wheel-drive system made it an ideal choice for drivers living in areas with challenging weather conditions, such as snowy climates or regions with less-than-perfect road infrastructure. It appealed to active individuals and families who required the versatility and cargo space of a wagon but desired the confidence and stance of an SUV, without the typical compromises in driving dynamics or fuel efficiency that often come with larger utility vehicles. The ability to tow a substantial trailer further enhanced its practicality for outdoor enthusiasts.

Ultimately, the Volvo V60 I Cross Country 2.4 D4 AWD Automatic cemented Volvo’s position as a leader in the premium wagon segment, demonstrating that practicality and rugged capability could coexist with elegance and advanced engineering. It contributed to the brand’s image as a producer of sophisticated, safe, and versatile vehicles, paving the way for future Cross Country models and reinforcing the enduring appeal of the “adventure wagon” concept.