sport utility vehicle

Eight years is a long time to stay with any model and the XC60 is showing its age. But that fact hasn’t stopped Volvo from making important updates to the 2017 edition in advance of an all-new model debuting in 2018.

When the XC60 rolled out in 2010, critics hailed its wedge-shaped looks, easy to raise liftgate, comfortable front seats, and its turbo kick. The XC60 also represented Volvo’s first shot at a crossover utility vehicle, taking on the likes of the BMW X3, Infiniti EX35, and the Acura RDX. Since then, new or updated players from Lincoln, Land Rover, Audi, and Lexus have been released. Some might also cross shop this model with the Buick Enclave, an SUV with an even longer history of no updates — the Enclave is now in its tenth model year.

Exterior Overview

Is it a tall wagon or an SUV? That’s a question you might have in mind when viewing the XC60 for the first time. When it comes to models, the Volvo V60 is the standard wagon. On the other hand, the V60 Cross Country is the tall wagon. Figure that all three vehicles offer increasingly higher steps (or ground clearances) on the same platform with the XC60 on top.

Front to back, the XC60 is a sleek SUV with Volvo’s trademark logo fastened to the “smiley” grille. Oversized headlamps, a narrow lower grille opening, and horizontal LED fog lamps complete the frontal presentation. Along the sides, you’ll find a rising belt line, character lines and lower body trim, and alloy wheels.

The rear fascia is marked by a pair of signature combination lamps —stylish and long. A liftgate spoiler, chrome garnish, and a pair of exhaust ports are present. Front and rear skid plates round out the look.

Interior Highlights

Two of the XC60’s strong suits are seating for five and generous cargo space. The front seats are very comfortable and the rear seat delivers as expected. Behind the third row seat is 30.8 cubic feet of storage room — that generous space will appeal to families. What will also appeal is the nearly 70 cubic feet of storage space when the rear seat is folded.

The XC60’s interior is a blend of utilitarianism, clean lines and an excellent fit and finish. That said, the cabin’s simplicity means its competitors’ interiors are typically more elaborate. This is one deficiency that has some critics hesitating to compare Volvo with Europe’s best-selling marques. Instead, Volvo seems closer to Buick — premium, but not lavishly displayed luxury.

My test model had a pair of child seat boosters located in the outboard seating positions. This is a Volvo exclusive feature and a $500 upgrade. Consider it a worthwhile investment if you have a pair of youngsters who have outgrown their baby seats and you’re weighing your booster seat options. Because they’re built in, you’ll never be without them. And, when you need that room for adult passengers, the booster seats fold within the rear seat, out of sight.

Overall, the cabin features an inviting two-tone theme with the seats in a light color and contrasting gray presented elsewhere. Not quite Ikea-spartan, but certainly not lavishly adorned.

Top Innovative Technologies

I’m not a fan of Sensus Connect, Volvo’s infotainment system. Yes, it does allow smartphone tethering and provides a Wi-Fi hotspot, it also cleanly and sensibly places information on the color display. What makes it difficult to use is the attendant keyboard — there are simply too many buttons to push — over two dozen — and that’s more steps than what most people want. Volvo will replace the current layout with a new and less cumbersome arrangement next year as currently found on the all-new 2017 XC90.

On the audio front, Volvo doesn’t mess around. You receive a 12-speaker Harmon Kardon system with built-in apps like Pandora and Stitcher. The sound is superb and befits the Volvo.

Key Safety Features

You would expect every Volvo model to shine in all matters safety, given the company’s pioneering work. Indeed, Volvo introduced the world’s first automatic braking system with cyclist detection in 2013. In 1959, the automaker rolled out a three-point safety belt and followed up with such innovations as a child booster cushion (1976), a side-impact protection system (1991), and a blind spot information system (2004). Dozens more innovations not mentioned should be included with most later adopted by competitors.

The Volvo XC60 garnered the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick+ award in 2016 and is expected to repeat in 2017. Beyond stability and traction control, the XC60 is equipped with or offers as a package upgrade multiple preventive safety features. These include blind spot information system, city safety collision avoidance, collision warning with full auto brake and pedestrian and cyclist detection, distance alert, and driver alert control. Also: lane departure warning, road sign information, and dual two-stage integrated booster seats.

On the Road

The significant change in 2017 was the elimination of two powerplants. Gone are the previous five- and six-cylinder engines. Those engines represented the XC60’s T5 and T6 lines, respectively.

For 2017, the T5 and T6 names continue, but they now represent a pair of four-cylinder engines displacing at two liters. The first engine is turbocharged and includes direct injection. This engine makes 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The second engine is supercharged, turbocharged, and also has direct injection. This dual forced induction engine makes 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The EPA rates the standard engine as high as 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway; this engine accepts regular gasoline. The beefed up engine makes an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway and runs on premium gasoline. Models equipped with the standard engine have a 3,500-pound towing capacity; you have 4,400 pounds with the other.

My test XC60 AWD Inscription model came with the more powerful engine. Wisely, Volvo only offers this engine with all-wheel drive as torque steer would be a nightmare for your driving dynamics.

The unusual forced induction combination gets the job done as the supercharger bangs out power first, followed by the turbocharger. When working in sync, this compact engine quickly reaches peak performance and moves this crossover with authority. The engine is also noisy and not especially refined — for a model starting at $46,350, you’d think it would be quieter. On the other hand, the transmission offers a well-suited pairing for the engine as it seamlessly shifts between gears and matches revs evenly.

There isn’t anything exciting about the driving dynamics either. But the same can be said for most SUVs except perhaps for models designed from the start to elicit superior steering feedback, outstanding handling, and robust braking. The Porsche Cayenne is one such model that comes to mind.

But most people don’t buy crossovers for performance or want to pay the Porsche price. Interior room, storage capacity, and trailering capabilities likely are more important concerns. In these three areas, the Volvo XC60 demonstrates its strengths.

Consider Your Volvo XC60

The standard T5 Dynamic and Inscription models will cost you $40,950. Opt for all-wheel drive and add $2,000 to your price. It is a sensible investment — both for handling improvement and safety considerations.

The T6 Dynamic and Inscription models will run you $46,350. Choose the R-Design and you’ll pay $51,000. The advantage of selecting the R-Design is that you’ll receive every possible safety feature included, except for the dual booster seats.

If you’re inclined to wait another year for the new model you might want to consider the 2017 XC90 instead. Volvo’s newest crossover is its largest one and is priced from $45,750. A seven-passenger model retails for $51,600. Plug-in hybrid versions start at $71,800 and top out at $104,900 for an opulent four-passenger Excellence version.

Parting Thoughts

Volvo could have left well enough alone for 2017 and allowed the current-generation XC60 to give way to the next model without updating the engine choices. The dual forced induction engine is its newest offering and supplies small-block V8 equivalent power.

Other models to consider in this segment include the Audi Q5, Lincoln MKX, Cadillac XT5, and the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. Most competitors are far newer and offer similar safety features as the Volvo.

See Also — Updated SUV: 2017 Ford Escape

Among midsize SUVs, the Hyundai Santa Fe stands tall. No, it doesn’t sit higher than the competition, rather it possesses certain attributes its competitors don’t offer, namely superior bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties.

In a crowded field, offering 5-year, 60,000-mile standard and 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranties might be considered the tiebreaker when comparing like vehicles. Throw in a 7-year, unlimited miles anti-peroration warranty and you have one more compelling reason to consider a Hyundai Santa Fe.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai offers its midsize model in two similar, but different arrangements. The five-passenger Santa Fe Sport is one model and was reviewed separately here. The three-row Santa Fe is the larger of the two, offering nearly four extra inches between the wheels as well as a two-passenger, third-row seat. The Santa Fe Sport seats five, the Santa Fe has room for up to seven — beyond powertrain choices and trims, there isn’t much else separating these two models.

Hyundai offers the 2017 Santa Fe in four trims: SE ($30,800), Limited ($34,950), SE Ultimate ($38,700), and Limited Ultimate ($39,400). The SE models offer seating for seven, the Limited holds six as the middle row bench seat is replaced with a pair of captain’s chairs.

All four trims supply standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive. One powertrain combination is offered: a 3.3-liter, V6 engine making 290 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The EPA estimates fuel economy at 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway for FWD and 17/23 for AWD. All models take regular gasoline and have a 5,000-pound towing capacity.

Premium Expression: Fluidic Sculpture 2.0

From stem to stern, there is something familiar, but different with the 2017 Santa Fe. The familiar is its size, a model that has a footprint corresponding to such competitors as the Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Buick Enclave, Toyota Highlander, Dodge Durango, and the Honda Pilot, just to name a few.

The different becomes apparent in its presentation as the Santa Fe advances Hyundai’s design philosophy, currently known as Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. Hyundai likes to describe the design as “sculpture in motion,” underscoring product harmony with nature. Filled with curves and not right angles, each model is the antithesis of an earlier boxy design that once defined passenger vehicles, including some Hyundai products.

Across the exterior, the Santa Fe advances that look with an oversized trapezoidal grille pressed in by sleek headlamp assemblies and lower embrasures housing the fog lights. This SUV’s profile is marked by a rising belt line, a sweeping roofline along with distinctive character lines and body sculpting. Beautifully designed wheels add flair to the presentation.

From the rear, Hyundai has taken what is typically ordinary and made it extraordinary — the curved lift gate rear window is accented by a spoiler. Distinct wraparound combination lamps, reflectors, and dual exhaust ports supply a look that is at once sporty and elegant.

Room for Seven

Inside, the same flowing lines are evident everywhere: across the dashboard, down the center stack, and on the doors. As dramatic as the look is, it isn’t busy nor is it overwhelming. The layout is comfortable, even inviting — all controls are sensibly placed.

Standard 2-3-2 seating provides room for up to seven. Comfortable and supportive bucket seats in the first row give way to a 40-20-40 split folding bench seat in the second row. The third row has a 50-50 bench seat — it can hold a pair of adults in a pinch, but is best suited for young teens. Otherwise, keep the seat folded and you’ll have 40.9 cubic feet of cargo volume instead of the very limited 13.5 cubic feet. Drop the second and third-row seats and you’ll find 80 cubic feet behind the first row.

In the 2017 Santa Fe, Hyundai offers a long list of standard equipment, although the base SE trim lacks a few niceties such as side mirror turn signal indicators, LED fog lights and tail lights, a proximity key with push-button start, and a hands-free smart liftgate. The latter feature is a treat — simply hold the key fob somewhere on your person as you approach the lift gate from the rear and you’ll hear a succession of beeps before the lift gate automatically rises. No need to use your hands or to swish your foot underneath the rear bumper as the back door rises without personal intervention. This is an outstanding feature and not something other automakers offer without some drama, namely requiring you to kick your foot and possibly lose your balance.

All models offer roof rack side rails and provide cross rails as an accessory upgrade. You may also find alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, side-mirror turn signal indicators, LED lights, and keyless entry with push-button start.

Standard and Available Equipment

This model comes with power accessories, a tilt and telescopic steering column, Bluetooth connectivity, four 12-volt outlets, USB and auxiliary audio ports, a six-speaker audio system, climate control, a power driver’s seat, and cloth seats. Upgrades include premium door sills, leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, manual rear side window sunshades, and an Infinity premium audio system.

As for technology, the two top trims offer a navigation system with an eight-inch touchscreen. The system now offers both Android Auto and Apple Car Play support, making it easier for you to listen to and dictate messages. Where navigation isn’t present a seven-inch screen is and comes in larger than the one offered last year.

On the safety front, the Hyundai Santa Fe earns a top grade. Well, at least with the 2016 model as the unchanged 2017 hasn’t been tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) yet.

The IIHS gives this model a Top Safety Pick+ rating, its highest honor, in recognition both for its top crashworthiness rating and available advanced driver-assist safety equipment. All models are equipped with a rearview monitor.

Available safety equipment includes rear parking sensors, smart cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking with passenger detection, high beam assist, and dynamic bending lights. A number of these features are available only on the two top trims and as part of a $2,100 technology package.

On the Road…Again

Take the 2017 Santa Fe on the road and you’ll find an engine entirely suited to handle the job. It comes in slightly more power dense than most competing models and does so without forced induction. This means you’ll always find sufficient power at the ready from a cold stop up to highway speed and beyond.

The ride remains comfortable throughout with MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar up front and a multi-link suspension with a stabilizer bar in the rear. Its unibody construction leads to a rigid frame — this SUV drives like a car and does a very good job of remaining planted even when cornering. Certainly, consider all-wheel drive for improved control, especially if you regularly drive on wet roads or live in a snowy climate. Braking is firm and certain to the touch.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the 2017 Santa Fe is a compelling product as it provides a rich blend of utility, premium features, technology, and safety equipment. Expect to pay just above $40,000 for a fully equipped model with the top safety features included.

Keep an eye out for current incentives and be ready to negotiate as you should find further savings on this premium, midsize SUV.