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MOVE OVER

Volvo used to be known as the matriarch of all models – nurturing, safe and respectfully presented. The XC60 concept however is the real wild child of the next generation.

Built to rival the BMW X3; the latest compact SUV from Volvo is less concerned with scaling mountains and more in to its image and on-road dynamics. To that end, you’ll find just enough ground clearance to tackle the farmyard track which leads up to the Caravan Park or get that bit further in to the heart of the Moor land to try out new hiking routes. Permanent All-wheel-drive and Hill Descent Control are both part of the package and despite being still in the pre-production stages the handling is already sporty and well refined.

There are pretty solid plans to roll the XC60 out by Autumn 2008 and Volvo intend to keep its looks as rakish as possible. Its design is clearly inspired by Centaur mythology as there’s a real separation between the two halves. The top section is the slick, sophisticated part which is very much akin to the C30 while the bottom section is pure muscle mass, deliberately disproportionate with its meaty 20” alloys and swollen flanks.
Hints as to the future styling of Volvo can also be seen on the new concept, the badge for example is no longer imprisoned in a box but incorporated in to the grille. Stacking, lining up and all that regimental organisation is also out and strong fluid lines are in. The rear of the XC60 is by far its signature piece, just look at the gallant lacerations that are etched in to the bumper and the visible underplating. These are contrasted with the elegant streaming of the lights as they hug on to the hatchback and the carved out framing to each side of the boot.

Yes, the rear opening itself has two halves. Developing the brief for the C30’s glass bootlid yet further, the lower section of the tailgate comes out and folds over the top segment instead of just hinging from the bottom. Now then, not only can you load things in from a lower level but you also need less room to do so. The white leather interior however we are unconvinced of. It looks great and fits the whole ipod-capsule theme that Volvo is going for but probably isn’t that compatible with hot summers and kids that take four hours to eat a stick of Kit Kat and then fall asleep with Ribena in their hands.
Unfortunately, the ‘Apple’ generation floating console in the front might not make production either but we live in hope. Those touch sensitive buttons, flush flat screen and the seamless join to the centre console that elegantly divides the cabin is a true work of art. The cabin feels very spacious and visibility is good, the glass roof also lets in the best of the sunlight even in the winter but won’t cook you in the heat.

Powering the XC60 concept is a 3.2-litre engine which has been modified to take bioethanol fuel. This more environmentally friendly blend of 15 per cent fuel, 85 per cent ethanol cuts its C02 emissions by 80 per cent as well as upping the performance slightly. With 265bhp on tap, a 0-60mph time of 8.3 seconds and a top speed of 143mph on a big family car you’ve certainly got the best of both worlds. If you want a serious Off-Roader you’ve always got the XC90 or the XC70 but if you just want a bit of a dabble but still want agility on the tarmac then the XC60 is looking like an attractive proposition.

Verdict

FOR: Slick design, intuitive technology and promising dynamics.
AGAINST: None we can foresee so long as the ride quality is honed, ready for production.
CONCLUSION: Still hot on safety and comfort, the XC60 is practical but no longer mumsy. The new look is rakish and moody while the drive is geared towards fun.

Spec

ENGINE: 3.2-litre 6cylinder (Bioethanol powered)
0-60mph (sec): 8.3 seconds
TOP SPEED: 143mph
TRANSMISSION: Six speed automatic
PRICE: £28,000 (est)
RIVALS: BMW X3, Mercedes GLK, Audi Q5