The 2017 Volvo XC60 T6 represents a significant moment for the Swedish luxury brand, marking the first generation of its mid-size SUV to reach the American market with a potent and efficient turbocharged engine. This specific model year combines Scandinavian design philosophy with practical engineering, creating a vehicle that appeals to drivers seeking a blend of safety, performance, and everyday usability. Its arrival signaled Volvo's renewed commitment to the lucrative SUV segment while staying true to its heritage of building cars for real life.
Design and Exterior Presence
The 2017 XC60 T6 wears the confident stance of its larger sibling, the XC90, thanks to Volvo's signature design language. The front fascia features the distinctive Thor's Hammer LED daytime running lights, which wrap around the grille and provide exceptional visibility in all conditions. The body is largely free of unnecessary ornamentation, relying on clean lines, a gently sloping roofline, and 19-inch alloy wheels to create a sophisticated and athletic profile. This aesthetic isn't just for show; it contributes to a drag coefficient of 0.32, aiding both efficiency and high-speed stability.
Interior Craftsmanship and Technology
Step inside the 2017 XC60 T6, and the focus shifts to a cabin that feels more like a private lounge than a typical vehicle interior. Volvo's commitment to quality is evident in the use of soft-touch materials, fine leather, and brushed metal accents. The driver-centric cockpit is centered around a horizontally oriented touchscreen infotainment system, which, while dated compared to modern rivals, remains logically laid out. The inclusion of a premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system transforms the cabin into a serene environment, effectively canceling out road noise and delivering a rich, immersive audio experience.
Spacious and well-lit cabin with excellent driver visibility.
High-quality materials that resist wear and tear over time.
Intuitive layout for the climate controls and infotainment system.
Available panoramic sunroof enhances the sense of openness.
Plush front seats with multi-way power adjustment and memory.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2017 Volvo XC60 T6 is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine paired with a turbocharger and a supercharger. This unique powertrain configuration delivers 305 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for highway merging and confident passing. The power is sent to the front wheels through an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and quickly. The T6 model comes standard with Volvo's Haldex all-wheel-drive system, which distributes power between the front and rear wheels, ensuring traction in various weather conditions without the feel of a heavy off-road vehicle.
