The 2022 Volvo V60 Cross Country represents the adventurous spirit of the Swedish brand, blending the practicality of a compact estate with the rugged capability of a crossover. This specific model year positions itself as the go-to choice for drivers who refuse to compromise between refined luxury and the desire to explore unpaved roads and challenging weather conditions. With its distinctive raised suspension and bold design cues, the V60 Cross Country moves beyond the confines of the asphalt-bound sedan, offering a presence that is both confident and capable.
Design and Exterior Presence
Visually, the 2022 V60 Cross Country is immediately recognizable, thanks to its robust cladding and elevated stance. The addition of a black plastic bumper cover and side skirts signals its off-road intent, while the standard 19-inch alloy wheels shod in all-season tires provide a stable and grounded look. The front fascia features a darker honeycomb grille, integrating seamlessly with the LED headlights to give the car a more aggressive and weather-ready appearance compared to its standard counterpart.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the performance remains focused on efficiency and control rather than brute force. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 247 horsepower, provides more than enough power for daily commuting and confident highway merging. This power is sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission, which excels in maintaining traction on slippery surfaces. The ride is tuned to absorb road imperfections effectively, ensuring that the Cross Country feels composed rather than harsh, whether navigating city streets or uneven forest trails.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the cabin is a sanctuary of Scandinavian minimalism and high-quality materials. The driver-oriented cockpit features a clean dashboard with a prominent 9-inch vertical touchscreen, which controls the latest iteration of Volvo’s Sensus navigation and entertainment system. Support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, allowing for seamless integration with personal devices. The seats, bolstered for long-distance support, are upholstered in durable yet luxurious materials, creating an atmosphere that is both calming and technologically advanced.
Practicality and Cargo Utility
The estate shape of the V60 provides generous cargo space, which is further enhanced by the Cross Country’s raised suspension. Rear seats fold flat, creating a vast and flexible load area that is perfect for hauling outdoor gear, furniture, or luggage for a family trip. The load floor is relatively flat, and the tailgate features a convenient step, making the process of loading heavy items significantly easier than in a traditional sedan. This blend of passenger comfort and cargo utility is the core strength of the entire V60 lineage.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a cornerstone of the Volvo brand, and the 2022 model is no exception. It comes packed with the City Safety suite, which includes collision avoidance for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as emergency braking. The Pilot Assist system, available on higher trims, provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities in stop-and-go traffic and on the highway, helping to reduce driver fatigue on long journeys. These systems work together to provide a layer of security that is second to none in its class.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
While the T6 engine offers thrilling performance, the efficiency of the plug-in hybrid variant is particularly noteworthy for the Cross Country. The T6 Recharge model provides an all-electric range of up to 29 miles, allowing for zero-emission commuting and errands. When the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine kicks in seamlessly, ensuring that range anxiety is never a concern. This flexibility makes the V60 Cross Country an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing utility.
