Almost three years after we put the Volvo XC60 D5 to the test, we are now putting the Volvo XC60 D5 to the test. Volvo XC60 B5 — both in the “Inscription” version, and both equipped with the same diesel engine, the most powerful in the range.
After reading this paragraph, where the only difference between the two seems to be the change from the inscription “D5” to “B5” you might be asking yourself: “why did they test the same car again?”. Well, the answer to your question is very simple.
When changing from “D5” to “B5”, it means that the Volvo XC60 now has a mild-hybrid 48 V system, which includes an electric motor with 14 hp and 40 Nm, and which, says the brand, promises reduced consumption by up to 15%.
So, for that very reason, we met again with the one who was elected “World Car of the Year 2018” and we went to find out if the mild-hybrid system really does what it promises.
Inside the Volvo XC60 B5
But first, this reunion served to remind us how appealing the Swedish proposal still is. Inside, although there's nothing new, it's not bad news. The appearance continues to be very welcoming and with minimalist tendencies, and with regard to the quality of assembly and materials, it is at the level of its German rivals.
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Like the other members of this generation of Volvo models, the XC60 also said goodbye to many of the physical controls, including the climate controls that were – unfortunately, in my opinion – transferred to the infotainment system's screen.
Speaking of the infotainment system, as in the V60 T8 PHEV that I also tested, I have to praise it for the good graphics and the fact that it is quite complete, despite requiring some getting used to it.
Physical controls are scarce inside the XC60.
In terms of available space, the Volvo XC60 lives up to its family vocation and is capable of comfortably transporting four adults and their luggage — the latter has a capacity of 505 l, enough q.b. for family needs.
At the wheel of the Volvo XC60 B5
Once seated behind the wheel of the Volvo XC60 B5, the focus is all on the comfortable seats and their wide adjustments that contribute to finding a good driving position.
Already underway, the 2.0 l diesel engine, with 235 hp and 480 Nm remains the same as itself, revealing itself as smooth and progressive, with an excellent companion in the eight-speed automatic transmission. But did the mild-hybrid system help curb your appetite?
If almost three years ago one of the criticisms we pointed out was precisely the somewhat high consumption of this Diesel unit — hardly less than eight liters — now, on the contrary, this topic has become one of the virtues of this new mild-hybrid Diesel.
The average throughout the test was between 6.5 and 7.0 l/100 km , having even reached around five liters when I took the XC60 to do what it seems to have been designed for: devour kilometers.
It is proof that mild-hybrid systems can really be of added value, removing the burden from the combustion engine of supplying various auxiliary systems (for example, air conditioning), further enhancing the fuel economy factor of the stop-start system in urban driving.
It may not seem like it, but the XC60 impresses when the asphalt runs out.
In “kilometre eater” mode, whether on the highway or on one of the endless straights of the Alentejo plains, the XC60 reveals high levels of stability and soundproofing — the way in which the Swedish SUV “disguises” its speed, just as it does, remains impressive. Guilherme had already told us more than two years ago.
When it comes to the corners, despite being safe and predictable, the Volvo XC60 B5 is more cut out for comfort, not giving us the most intense driving experience when at its controls — it's an SUV with strong road-going attributes and relatives; not all automobiles have to be kings of the asphalt.
Is the car right for me?
Comfortable, spacious, safe, well equipped, robust, versatile and now more economical, the Volvo XC60 is one of the SUVs I appreciate most in its segment.
It's true that it doesn't have the dynamic sharpness of a BMW X3, however, it proves to be safe, predictable and a great roadster, presenting its occupants with very high levels of comfort.
Despite the fact that we are in a period in which many models seem focused, above all, on achieving sharp dynamics, the somewhat different path that Volvo decided to follow is to be commended, mainly because in doing so it did not fail to create a very competent model.
So, if you like to travel, even get away from the asphalt and want to transport your family in safety and comfort, the Volvo XC60 B5 Inscription may well be the ideal choice.
