2011 Volvo XC60 On Sale In Australia

Volvo has today announced availability of the 2011 Volvo XC60, with more power, more features, an updated interior and the introduction of a new entry-level front-wheel-drive variant.

The new entry-level XC60 is powered by Volvo's T5 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder GTDi engine - the same engine available with the S60 sedan.

"The XC60 has already proven its credentials as one of the safest, most stylish and versatile prestige SUVs on the market and with the addition of the new T5 model we have further expanded its appeal," Volvo Car Australia Managing Director Matt Braid said.

Producing 177kW and 320Nm of torque, the engine sends power to the front wheels through a six-speed dual-clutch Powershift transmission, also available with many Volvo models. 

Fuel consumption for the Euro 5-compliant XC60 T5 is rated at 8.7 l/100km, and the 0-100km/h sprint is knocked over in a claimed 8.1 seconds.

The XC60 T6 has come in for a power and efficiency upgrade, with the 3.0 litre turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine climbing from 210kW to 224kW, and 400Nm to 440Nm of torque.

Thanks to engine updates and the introduction of Electro Hydraulic Power Assisted Steering, regenerative braking and updated gear mapping, the T6 engine now lists fuel consumption figures of 10.5 l/100km.

The  XC60's 3.2 litre naturally-aspirated engine gains a minor power boost to 179kW (up 4kW), and peak torque remains unchanged at 320Nm.

Features

Inside, the XC60 gains a number of S60-inspired update - the most prominent being the new tunnel console and modified centre stack, featuring new infotainment systems.

Depending on the level of audio system, the centre stack offers a full-colour five-inch or seven-inch screen displaying all audio system, navigation, mobile phone and other functions.

The screen is positioned high up in the driver's field of vision, making it easier to use the system without looking too far from the road.

The standard High Performance Sound system combines a five-inch screen with an AM/FM radio and single-slot MP3 compatible CD player and eight speakers.

The optional High Performance Multimedia system gains a larger seven-inch screen and DVD player replacing the CD player, while the top-shelf Premium Sound system gains an additional four speakers and full Dolby Pro Logic II Surround System audio processing.

The new infotainment systems also offer Bluetooth connectivity as standard across the range, allowing hands-free phone calls and audio streaming.

All Volvo XC60 models now feature speakers sourced from audio specialist Harman Kardon.

The T5 petrol and D5 diesel models both get electronic climate control, cruise control, heated retractable exterior mirrors, leather trim, rain sensing wipers, rear park assist, and  17-inch wheels.

The D5 and XC60 3.2 gain Hill Descent Control as standard.

Safety

Safety features have also been upgraded for 2011, including the addition of structural reinforcements between the A and B pillars for the Side Impact Protection System. The rear head restraint cushions are firmer and have been moved forward slightly to help reduce whiplash injuries for rear passengers.

Emergency Brake Lights have been added as standard equipment across the range. This system works by flashing the brake lights five times per second during heavy braking, alerting following drivers.

Volvo's Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), also gains new functions for 2011. ACC allows drivers to automatically maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front using a radar sensor and digital camera integrated with the cruise control.

For 2011, ACC now offers a three-stage system which first warns the driver, then pre-charges the brakes and finally applies full braking force.

If the vehicle in front suddenly brakes and a collision is likely, the system alerts the driver with a flashing red light on the windscreen and an audible signal. If the driver fails to react and a collision is imminent, the system immediately applies full braking force.

In slow moving city traffic up to 30 km/h, the new Queue Assist function allows drivers to simply press a button and the cruise control automatically adapts your speed to allow you to smoothly tail the vehicle in front.

Pricing

T5 - $54,150
D5 - $60,450
D5 R-Design - $64,650
T6 - $66,450
T6 - R-Design $70,650