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Volvo reckons it is breaking new ground with the launch of this, the S60 Cross Country, which it says is not only the most off-road capable four-door saloon ever, but also the first and only thus far.
Based on the same mechanical package as the recently-revealed V60 Cross Country estate, the S60 rides 2.5 inches higher on its springs than does the standard S60 saloon and uses either the new four-cylinder 190hp D4 diesel engine (in front-wheel drive form) or the good old 2.5-litre five-cylinder D5 engine (when fitted with all-wheel drive).
"We want to further explore the market with our Cross Country brand. We did this back in 1997 with the V70 Cross Country and it led to the birth of a whole new segment. We have included all the capability-driven benefits of the Cross Country brand in this new model, while offering a completely unique expression of adventure and all-road readiness in a distinctly sporty and stylish package," says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Product Strategy and Vehicle Line Management at Volvo Cars.
"The S60 Cross Country is the sole contender in the crossover saloon segment. We have identified a clear niche in the market for a more capable saloon with rugged styling cues and a higher stance. The S60 Cross Country will appeal to people that are searching for an exciting and capable saloon, whilst enjoying the clear benefits that a crossover offers," says Alain Visser, Senior Vice President Sales, Marketing and Customer Service.