Performance & drive
What it’s like to drive, and how quiet it is
The Volvo V60 is available exclusively with 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engines. Let’s begin with the lowest-powered option, the 161bhp B3, which is a mild hybrid. It’s not quick (0-62mph takes 8.6sec), but because it’s turbocharged, it’s surprisingly flexible.
If you can, spend a bit more on our pick of the range, the 194bhp B4 mild hybrid. It knocks a second off the B3’s 0-62mph time, is more energetic at motorway speeds and its extra oomph makes it better suited to a car designed to be filled with people and luggage.
No V60 is as agile as the 3 Series Touring, and the heavy batteries in Recharge versions make them even less eager to tuck in to corners or change direction. Still, if you want an estate car that steers predictably, grips well and feels safe and secure on motorways and A-roads, the V60 is fine.
In terms of comfort, the Audi A4 Avant – one of the most supple models in this class if you pick the right spec – is better, but the V60 isn't far behind. It delivers good long-distance comfort on motorways, but around town it doesn’t isolate you from potholes and ridges quite as well. The heavier PHEVs are less settled at speed, but are by no means boneshakers.
Nothing in this price range can match the A4 Avant’s near-silent progress. The V60’s engines are a touch noisier, there’s a bit more rumble from its tyres at 70mph, and you hear more squally wind noise from its door mirrors. It's no noisier than the Mercedes C-Class Estate though, and neither is irritatingly loud.
