The Volvo XC60 is now even more affordable, thanks to the launch of a new variant

The Swedish luxury firm has announced the addition of an additional variant to its Volvo XC60 range that makes its most popular model even more affordable.
With the new XC60 B5 Front Wheel Drive (FWD) launching the company’s mid-size SUV line-up, the starting price of the now six-strong range has been lowered to R750 000 (including VAT).
It will be available from February 1, 2022.

Volvo’s new XC60 is a mild-hybrid vehicle, powered by a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) that can absorb braking energy and use it to charge a 48-volt battery.
With this recovered energy, the turbocharged 2.0-liter petrol engine is powered by a starter generator and further lowers tailpipe emissions.
The combined fuel consumption is 6.9 liters per 100 kilometers.
This mild-hybrid setup delivers power of 183 kW and torque of 350 Nm to the front wheels via Volvo’s Geartronic eight-speed automatic transmission, with the latter available through a broad rev range (1 800 to 4 800 r/min).
In terms of performance, the 0-100 km/h sprint is completed in 7.0 seconds, or just a tenth slower than its all-wheel-drive siblings.
Despite sitting below the XC60 B5 Momentum AWD, the new arrival offers plenty of standard equipment.
The car is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, heated front seats, a power adjustable driver’s seat, parking assist (front and rear), a reversing camera, and a charging pad for smartphones, while leather upholstery is optional.
The newcomer also features the company’s latest Android-based infotainment system integrated with a number of Google’s apps and services.
As both the operating system and the vehicle software can receive over-the-air updates, they will both continue to improve as time passes.
Greg Maruszewski, Managing Director of Volvo Cars South Africa, said the new B5 FWD derivative will bolster the XC60’s place as the brand’s top-selling vehicle locally and as the class leader.
“The new XC60 B5 FWD puts Volvo’s efficient and powerful mild-hybrid powertrain within reach of more South Africans, meaning they can enjoy its signature luxury and safety.
Market-leading technology such as the new Android-powered infotainment system, meanwhile, offers unparalleled connectivity,” Maruszewski said.
Volvo’s XC60 has been the top-selling vehicle worldwide since 2009 and was named World Car of the Year in 2018.
The XC60 was awarded Top Safety Pick Plus status by the American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) a year ago, to go with the five-star rating it received from Euro NCAP shortly before that.