Refreshed 2022 Volvo XC60 has arrived in South Africa

The refreshed Volvo XC60 has arrived in South Africa with updated styling, improved tech and safety systems, an all-new Android-powered infotainment system with Google apps and services, and a new entry-level trim level - named B5 Momentum - priced at R750,000 (including VAT and emissions tax).

Volvo's best-selling XC60 premium SUV now features a new front grille and bumper, a revised colour palette, restyled alloy wheels, comfy leather-free choices, and "City Weave" textile upholstery. 

All the models in the XC60 range feature a mild-hybrid powertrain with a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS). The tech recovers the braking energy to charge a 48-volt battery through an integrated starter generator. The system offers this energy to the engine, thus further minimising tailpipe emissions.

So, what are the engine options right now?

Well, you can still pick from two turbodiesel engines (140kW/400Nm D4 and 173kW/480Nm D5) and two turbo-petrol choices (183kW/350Nm B5 and 220kW/420Nm B6). The entry-level Momentum comes equipped with a 2.0-litre petrol mill producing 183kW mating to an eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

The peak torque triggers from as low as 1,800rpm to offer more spirited performance. The Swedish automaker quotes a 0 to 100km/h run in only 7 seconds, a top speed of 180km/h, and a combined fuel economy figure of 6.9 litres/100km.

The luxury SUV comes with a wide range of standard features, including 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, parking assist (front and rear), a reversing camera, and inductive smartphone charging.

The highlight of the new XC60 is its new Android-powered infotainment system with built-in Google apps and services. You can use Google Maps for navigation, Google Play for music, and Google Assistant for voice commands. The latter lets you manage temperature, set an end-point, play music, send texts through voice, etc. - similar to what we experience on our Android smartphones.

Volvo has also enabled over-the-air updates to make sure the Android system remains up to date, devoid of any bugs and glitches.

The Swedish automaker has also improved the active safety credentials of the XC60 by fitting Volvo's new Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The tech employs a combination of radars, cameras, and sensors to enable the luxury SUV to apply automatic brakes, detect pedestrians for collision avoidance, and perform other safety manoeuvres. You would also enjoy semi-autonomous driver support in different driving conditions. 

Thanks to all the above-mentioned top-class features, Volvo's top-selling vehicle received the World Car of the Year honour in 2018. The American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) bestowed it the Top Safety Pick Plus award in 2017 that complements the five-star ranking previously secured from Euro NCAP.

To get your hands on the new 2022 Volvo XC60, you have to dish out at least R750,000. The price of the R-Design starts at R940,950, while the flagship Inscription costs R944,950. All the variants in the range offer a five-year/100,000km warranty, maintenance plan, and five-year roadside assistance. (All prices correct at time of publication.)

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