According to Volvo the new V60 Sportwagon is aimed at people who like the S60 saloon, but need more space and practicality. Customers who want to carry large loads will choose the V70, which is more in line with the traditional, boxy Volvo estate. Apparently the target market for the V60 values style over ultimate load space, which is why, according to Volvo's designers, it has short overhangs and a tapering roof line.
European V60s receive the firmer 'dynamic' chassis set-up as standard; in other markets a softer 'touring' configuration is available. Volvo also offers its FOUR-C 'active chassis' on all V60s. There is also plenty of technology designed to detect and prevent skidding, including traction control that channels torque to the outer front wheel to pull the car around tight corners.
Power comes from a range of engines with a spread of outputs from 117- to 308hp. The latter of those two figures comes from the 3.0-litre, turbocharged straight-six of the T6 model. According to Volvo the T6 will do 0-100km/h in 6.6 seconds and use 10.2 litres/100km (27.7mpg) on the combined cycle. Other petrol engines include 152- and 182hp 1.6-litre units. Three diesel engines are offered from the 1.6-litre DRIVe to the 208hp, 2.4-litre D5.
Being a Volvo, the V60 will come with plenty of safety systems including automatic brakes that operate if a pedestrian or another vehicle is in the car's path.
The V60 will go on sale in the autumn; prices and specifications will be announced later this year.