
Until a few years ago, Volvo didn't try to compete in the compact crossover segment, but with the XC60 they got it right the first time.
That's impressive, as it's a tight field, with excellent competitors like the BMW X3, Land Rover LR2, Acura RDX, and Infiniti EX35.
Happily, the Volvo entry is one of the handsomest of the bunch, comes standard with all-wheel drive and surprising off-road specs, and adds to the brand's reputation for safety with a new twist.
The Volvo XC60 hammers home the point of driver safety, with an elegant, sophisticated style.
The same can be said for the Audi Q5, which marries that automaker's sleek shapes with the running gear of a Volkswagen Tiguan and V-6 power.
Other luxury brands go more sporting with their compact crossovers; the Acura RDX is a turbocharged wagon with a techno-infused interior, not much cargo space and a whizzy, nervous appeal.
The Infiniti EX35 takes the all-wheel-drive version of the handsome G37 sedan, gives it a sexy rear end, and mostly forgets about utility in the name of crisp handling.
Land Rover's LR2 is a more off-road-focused take on a family crossover, but the brand's new Range Rover Evoque is also worth a look for those who want better gas mileage and want a little more maneuverability.
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Quick Specs | ||||
The 2012 Volvo XC60 is an attractive, well-designed family luxury vehicle, with a class-leading roster of innovative safety and tech features. |
The 2012 Acura RDX satisfies those who want more driving excitement, but it might leave luxury- or tech-hungry shoppers wanting. |
The 2012 Audi Q5 is one of the |
More street-friendly than other Land Rover utes, the 2012 LR2 has some of the SUV hallmarks in a much more city-friendly size. |
The era of truly coupe-like SUVs dawns, finally, and the 2012 Range Rover Evoque nails it with turbo thrust and carlike handling. |
MSRP From | ||||
$33,300 | $32,895 | $35,600 | $35,700 | $41,145 |
Gas Mileage | ||||
17 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 24 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 22 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy |
Engine | ||||
Gas I6 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Gas I6 | Turbocharged Gas I4 |
EPA Class | ||||
4WD Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle | 4WD Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility | Sport Utility 4WD |
Style Name | ||||
AWD 4-Door 3.2L | FWD 4-Door | quattro 4-Door 2.0T Premium | AWD 4-Door | 5-Door HB Dynamic Premium |
Drivetrain | ||||
All Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | All wheel drive | All Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | ||||
5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Passenger Doors | ||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 4 |
Body Style | ||||
5 Door Wagon | 4 Door | Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility | Sport Utility |
Transmission | ||||
Automatic w/manual shift | Automatic | Automatic w/Manual Transmission | Automatic | Automatic w/Manual Shift |
Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
2012 Volvo XC60 vs. 2012 Acura RDX | 2012 Volvo XC60 vs. 2012 Audi Q5 | 2012 Volvo XC60 vs. 2012 Land Rover LR2 | 2012 Volvo XC60 vs. 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque |