Volvo V60 II Cross Country 2.0 D3 (150 Hp) AWD Automatic

The Volvo V60 II Cross Country: A Detailed Overview

The Volvo V60 II Cross Country 2.0 D3 (150 Hp) AWD Automatic, produced from July 2018 to April 2019, represents the second generation of Volvo’s popular mid-size premium wagon with enhanced off-road capabilities. Positioned within the D-segment, this vehicle masterfully blends the practicality and elegant design of a traditional station wagon with the rugged stance and increased ground clearance of a crossover. While the V60 Cross Country line has been available in various forms in the United States, this specific 2.0 D3 diesel powertrain variant was primarily targeted at European markets, where diesel engines are a common and highly efficient choice for long-distance driving and heavier loads. It offers a compelling alternative to traditional SUVs, appealing to consumers who desire versatility, advanced safety, and premium comfort without sacrificing driving dynamics or fuel economy.

Built on Volvo’s advanced Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, shared with larger siblings like the S90, V90, and XC60, the V60 II Cross Country benefits from state-of-the-art engineering, robust safety structures, and integrated cutting-edge technology. This generation marked a significant leap forward in design, interior refinement, and powertrain efficiency, solidifying Volvo’s reputation as a leader in premium automotive solutions. The Cross Country designation signifies not just a cosmetic package, but a genuinely more capable vehicle, ready to tackle varied terrain and adverse weather conditions with its standard all-wheel-drive system and elevated ride height.

Engine and Performance of the Volvo V60 II Cross Country

Under the hood of the Volvo V60 II Cross Country 2.0 D3 (150 Hp) AWD Automatic lies Volvo’s D4204T4 engine, a sophisticated 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder diesel unit. This powertrain is a testament to modern diesel engineering, focusing on a harmonious balance of power, torque, and outstanding fuel efficiency. Equipped with a twin-turbocharger system and an intercooler, the engine delivers a respectable 150 horsepower at 4250 rpm. More impressively, it generates a robust 258.15 lb.-ft. of torque across a broad and accessible range, from just 1500 to 2520 rpm. This substantial low-end torque is crucial for effortless acceleration, confident overtaking, and particularly beneficial for towing, a common requirement for vehicles in its segment in Europe.

Power is seamlessly delivered to all four wheels via a smooth and responsive 8-speed automatic transmission. This advanced gearbox optimizes power delivery and fuel economy, ensuring that the engine operates within its most efficient RPM range. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) system provides enhanced traction and stability, making the V60 Cross Country adept at handling slippery roads, light off-road trails, and demanding weather conditions, reinforcing its adventurous spirit.

In terms of acceleration, the V60 II Cross Country 2.0 D3 can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 9.4 seconds, with a top speed of 121.17 mph. While not a performance-focused variant, these figures are perfectly adequate for daily driving and highway cruising, especially considering its family-oriented purpose. Where this powertrain truly shines is its fuel economy. The combined WLTP fuel consumption figures range from an impressive 35.6 to 39.9 US mpg, a remarkable achievement for an AWD vehicle of this size and capability. This efficiency is complemented by relatively low CO2 emissions, ranging from 155-173 g/km (WLTP), making it an environmentally conscious choice within its class, especially in markets with strict emissions regulations. The 60-liter (15.85 US gal) fuel tank, combined with the efficient diesel engine, provides an excellent cruising range, further enhancing its appeal for long journeys.

Design and Features

The design of the Volvo V60 II Cross Country epitomizes Scandinavian elegance fused with rugged utility. It maintains the sleek, sophisticated profile of the standard V60 station wagon but distinguishes itself with several key design elements that underscore its Cross Country identity. These include unique body cladding around the wheel arches and lower sills, a distinctive front grille, and integrated roof rails, all contributing to a more adventurous and robust aesthetic. The increased ride height, at 8.27 inches of ground clearance, is not just for show; it provides genuine practical benefits for navigating uneven terrain or deep snow, setting it apart from its conventional wagon counterpart.

Measuring 188.35 inches in length, 72.83 inches in width (80.31 inches including mirrors), and 59.02 inches in height, the V60 Cross Country strikes a balanced and purposeful stance. The generous 113.19-inch wheelbase contributes to both a comfortable ride and a spacious interior for five occupants. The vehicle features five doors, offering excellent accessibility to both the passenger cabin and the expansive cargo area.

Inside, the V60 II Cross Country upholds Volvo’s reputation for crafting meticulously designed and ergonomically sound interiors. High-quality materials, thoughtful details, and advanced technology create a serene and luxurious cabin environment. The Sensus Connect infotainment system, typically presented on a large, vertically oriented touchscreen, provides intuitive control over navigation, media, and vehicle settings. Volvo’s commitment to safety is paramount, and while specific features beyond ABS are not detailed in the raw data, it’s inherent to the brand that this vehicle would be equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety systems characteristic of a 2018 premium Volvo, including multiple airbags, stability control, and driver-assistance technologies like City Safety, which helps prevent collisions.

Practicality is a cornerstone of the V60 Cross Country. The trunk offers a substantial 18.68 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up, expanding to an impressive 50.89 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. This generous cargo capacity makes it an ideal vehicle for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone needing versatile storage options. The suspension system, featuring a double wishbone setup at the front and an innovative composite leaf spring at the rear, is tuned to provide a comfortable yet composed ride, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining stability, even with the increased ground clearance. Disc brakes on both front and rear axles ensure strong and reliable stopping power, complemented by a standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Volvo V60 II Cross Country 2.0 D3 (150 Hp) AWD Automatic, despite its relatively short production run for this specific powertrain variant (July 2018 – April 2019), carved out a significant niche in the premium European automotive landscape. Its legacy is deeply rooted in Volvo’s long-standing tradition of producing capable and safe station wagons, a heritage that began with models like the Volvo Duett and was revitalized with the advent of the Cross Country line in the late 1990s with the V70 XC. The V60 Cross Country continues this lineage, offering a compelling blend of functionality, elegant design, and robust performance that resonates strongly with a particular demographic.

In its primary European market, the V60 II Cross Country competed against other premium ruggedized wagons and entry-level luxury SUVs. Key rivals included the Audi A4 Allroad, which offered a similar concept of an elevated, all-wheel-drive wagon, and to a lesser extent, models like the Subaru Outback, though the Volvo typically commanded a higher price point and offered a more overtly luxurious interior. It also presented a distinct alternative to compact luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, and even Volvo’s own XC60, appealing to buyers who preferred the lower center of gravity and more car-like driving dynamics of a wagon, combined with enhanced ground clearance and all-weather capability.

The reputation of the V60 II Cross Country, and indeed the entire Volvo Cross Country family, is built on several pillars: unparalleled safety, exceptional build quality, practical versatility,