2012 Volvo XC60

Most reviewers come away impressed with the 2012 Volvo XC60. It delivers a striking design aesthetic, an upscale interior, comfortable ride and handling, and great safety performance and handling. Testers point out that the XC60 isn't particularly big, however, so it's not particularly well suited to hauling copious amounts of cargo. The upside, they say, is that the Volvo crossover is an engaging drive overall, though reviews indicate the 2012 Acura MDX (Base MSRP: $43,030 to $52,655) is likely a superior performer and the 2013 Lexus RX 350 (Base MSRP: $39,310 to $40,710), is a more traditionally plush alternative.

Though its base price is lower than a number of other premium-brand SUVs, reviewers say that the optional turbocharged inline 6 (300 or 325 horsepower, with the higher figure belonging to the X60 R-Design) is the engine to get, as the base, non-turbo 240-horsepower inline is "noticeably slower," as Edmunds.com puts it. Note that if high performance is not of primary importance to you (reviewers almost always prefer the more powerful engine offerings in different vehicles), the base engine may be entirely satisfactory. 

The 2012 Volvo XC60's available features are reshuffled into various trim levels, and a sportier Dynamic package is offered for the T6 AWD model. Otherwise, it's essentially a carryover. Our full report on the 2010 Volvo XC60 contains a detailed summary of reviewer feedback.

Experts like to point out that the Volvo XC60 has stellar crash-test results, advanced safety equipment and family-friendly interior touches. The XC60 gets the highest possible crash-test scores from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Features like two integrated child car seats, along with good ingress and egress, are welcome attributes for families, testers note.

EPA Fuel Economy Estimates

19 mpg city

25 mpg highway

21 mpg combined

NHTSA Safety Ratings:

Front Offset Impact: 5 stars

Side Impact: 5 stars

Rollover Resistance: 4 stars

Overall: 5 stars

IIHS Safety Ratings:

Front Offset Impact: Good

Side Impact: Good

Roof Strength: Good

Top Safety Pick 2012