Volvo V60 long-term test review

The Volvo V60 beat Audi's A4 Avant and Skoda's Superb Estate when we group tested it, but is it as impressive when you live with it every day?...

Volvo V60 Header

The Car: Volvo V60 D4 Momentum Pro

Run by: John Bradshaw, chief photographer

Why it's here: To see if one of the best modern estates is a better choice than an SUV

Needs to: Cope with all of my photography gear, provide smooth transport on long journeys, return reasonable fuel economy and be an effortless commuter car


Price £36,610 Price as tested £43,835 Miles covered 4000 Official Economy 52.3mpg (WLTP combined) Test economy 43.8mpg Options fitted Xenium Pack, which includes panoramic sunroof, 360 parking camera and Park Assist Pilot (£1800), Intellisafe Pro which includes Pilot Assist, adaptive cruise control, Blind Spot Warning, Cross Traffic Alert (£1625), Premium Harmon Kardon sound system (£825), 18in Diamond Cut alloy wheels (£775), metallic paint (£650), dark tinted windows (£600) Convenience Pack (£500), Smartphone Integration (£300) and spare wheel and jack (£150)

7 December 2018 – A practical solution

Volvos have always been synonymous with space and practicality, and our V60 is no different. As I’ve found out, you don’t have to think twice before sending it out on estate car business.

First, there’s my regular courier service to take 'the lads' down to football practice – the 6ft-plus men haven’t had any complaints, with plenty of space for their knees and lots of head room.

Volvo V60

More exciting for any estate owner, though, is the visit to the local tip. The back seats fold electrically from a button in the boot, giving a flat floor for plenty of extra space, while the low floor makes loading heavy items a breeze.

My only irritation is the retractable tonneau cover, which tends to get stuck in its half-open position, cutting off the rear view from the driver’s seat completely. A knack that I’m yet to master, perhaps. 

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