Volvo XC60 review

When you sit behind the wheel of the Volvo XC60, you look down on other road users. For many, that’s key to the appeal of high-riding SUVs, and the Land Rover Discovery Sport places you even higher up. The XC60’s driving position is superb, thanks to plenty of adjustment in the steering wheel and the extremely comfortable and supportive driver’s seat.

Seat height and lumbar adjustment are electric on all trim levels, but you have to slide the seat back and forth and recline it manually unless you fork out for the optional ‘power seat’ or step up to Plus trim. The central and door armrests are in a near-perfect position for most drivers to rest their elbows on, too.

Every XC60 comes equipped with front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera, making it easier to pilot the car’s considerable bulk into tight parking spaces. Plus models and above also benefit from a 360-degree bird’s eye view camera. At night, bright LED headlights are on hand to light your way clearly.

The XC60's large 9.0in touchscreen is set into the dashboard in portrait, rather than landscape, orientation, with a convenient home button at the bottom (like an iPad's). The fact that it’s a touchscreen means you have to prod icons – some of which are rather small. That’s fine when you’re parked up, but can be distracting while driving. The Google-based software does allow you to use voice controls, but a physical rotary controller, like the one in the X3, is easier for quick adjustments on the move.