2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country Review: Remains Distinctive, Yet Beginning to Show Its Age

      Caleb Jacobs

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      I've always had a desire for a Volvo—particularly an older model, like the 240 wagon. Due to my lack of mechanical skills and the need for a dependable daily driver, I’ve considered a new V60 Cross Country as a solid alternative. It’s still a Swedish wagon—and it stands out with its sleek look amidst an array of bulky SUVs. However, this choice comes at a significantly higher price, and after a week of testing, I find myself conflicted.

      There's no denying that the V60 Cross Country is a family vehicle; it just isn't designed for larger families. Similarly, it’s more adept at handling unpaved roads compared to many other wagons without being a true off-roader. It's lively without being high-performance; it has a premium feel but isn’t overly luxurious; and it is more affordable than the Audi A6 Allroad, yet still pricey at $64,135 for my test model. Additionally, it is older than its competitors.

      If the Volvo truly excelled in any single aspect, I believe I’d find it easier to endorse. To clarify, it’s not bad—it’s perfectly acceptable in most respects, but considering its age, that's not quite sufficient.

      Caleb Jacobs

      The Essentials

      Volvo is wholeheartedly embracing its SUV phase. One can see this reflected in the new design language, such as the elevated ES90. While the Swedish manufacturer continues to produce sedans and wagons, they are no longer the core of the brand, having shifted focus for some time. This model of the V60, launched in 2018, exemplifies that shift.

      As a result, the V60’s design feels like a nostalgic remnant, and thankfully, a well-executed one. I'm still fond of its appearance even after all these years. I appreciate that Volvo hasn’t given it an over-the-top look like some other brands. It's sleek, stylish, and well-proportioned—one of the best examples of contemporary wagons.

      Caleb Jacobs

      Inside, the cabin remains largely unchanged since the previous decade. Quality materials and color schemes keep it feeling fresh in comparison to the stark interiors of many German luxury vehicles offering only shades of gray. The seats in my test model featured Amber ventilated Nappa leather, a striking tan shade I found appealing. There’s wood grain on the dashboard in Ultra trim models like mine, and somewhat frustratingly, piano black finishes on several areas that tend to smudge easily. However, I do appreciate that the 9-inch infotainment display doesn’t appear to be an afterthought.

      The V60 Cross Country is equipped with a single powertrain: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels. If more power is desired, buyers must opt for the non-Cross Country V60 T8 Recharge.

      Driving the Volvo V60 Cross Country

      As I mentioned before, the V60 isn’t designed for larger families. This was particularly challenging for me, standing at 6'5" with three kids, two of whom are in car seats (my 5'2" wife is unconcerned; she fits in anything but prefers her Expedition). We managed to fit inside, but just barely, and my oldest son struggled to sit comfortably between his sisters.

      Once everyone was in, the drive was pleasant. I adjusted the gear shifter—crafted from genuine Orrefors crystal—and set off on the winding two-lane road near my home. Here, I immediately deviated from how most drivers typically operate these Volvos and gave it a bit more gas on the pavement.

      The mild-hybrid 2.0-liter turbo isn’t a powerhouse, but it is quick, especially at lower speeds. It accelerates sharply from a standstill, though it starts to lose its excitement once hitting 55 mph. This is acceptable, considering the car isn’t intended to be a performance vehicle. Plus, just look at it.

      Caleb Jacobs

      It feels impressively solid around town as well. I drove the V60 Cross Country through Bentonville, Arkansas, aiming for the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art solely to capture some photos there. It seemed like the perfect backdrop for such a stylish vehicle, you know? As someone used to navigating a large SUV, it was refreshing to have a car that could accommodate my family and cargo—albeit snugly—without the worry of fitting into parking garages. That’s the allure of wagons; they offer the space of a crossover with less height and bulk.

      As mentioned earlier, I appreciated the infotainment setup Volvo incorporated into the V60, as it provides all necessary features without excess. The 12.3-inch digital dashboard appears clean