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2019 Volvo V60 T6 AWD Momentum Review by David Colman +VIDEO


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2019 Volvo V60 T6 AWD Momentum

A finely crafted alternative to the glut of SUVs on the market

By David Colman
Special Correspondent to THE AUTO CHANNEL


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2019 Volvo V60 T6 AWD Momentum
It's easy to get confused at the Volvo dealer. If you're interested in buying a station wagon, a Volvo specialty since 1962, you've come to the right place. After all, this company has introduced 3 new station wagon models in just the last two years. In fact, Volvo offers so many wagon variants, it's hard to keep them all straight. Here's a brief guide to what you can expect to find. Volvo identifies its wagons with the letter "V" while sedans use the identifier "S." The smaller, less expensive V60 range starts at $39,895 for a FWD T5 model and runs to $43,400 for the AWD V60 T6 Momentum which we drove. The larger V90 models run from $50,000 to $70,000.

In the V60 spectrum, the base model FWD T5 offers a 2.0 liter turbo motor good for 250hp and 258lb.-ft. of torque. The T6 upgrade brings you a turbocharged and supercharged version of the in-line 4 making 316hp and 295lb.-ft. of torque. This upgraded engine, which is mounted parallel to the front axle, delivers power to all 4 wheels via an 8-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission. A 400hp Hybrid is also offered based on the same 2.0 liter in-line 4. The 250hp T5 will run from zero to 60mph in 6.4 seconds, while the 316hp T6 cuts the time to just 5.2 seconds. The T6 lays down a standing start quarter mile run in 13.8 seconds at 103mph, and achieves a governed top speed of 131mph.

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2019 Volvo V60 T6 AWD Momentum
Further consideration at the dealership should be devoted to the three different model lines Volvo offers for the T6 AWD. For example, the "Momentum" line is the most basic of the three, with fewer features than the more upmarket and expensive "Inscription" trim level. The third offering is called "R-Design," which aggregates a group of high performance suspension parts to offer a more sport focused driving experience.

After spending a week behind the $750 optional heated steering wheel of the T6 Momentum wagon, it quickly became obvious that even the entry level V60 lacked nothing in the way of fine detailing or creature comforts. Start with the appealing look of the subtle Swedish plaid seat inserts, which contribute a relaxed look to the cabin. These seats feature meticulous stitching, artful tailoring, and best of all, surprising comfort and support. The rest of the designer cued interior keeps pace with the high standards set by the chairs. Brushed aluminum highlights the simple contours of the dash. Incised diamond patterning makes the start/stop knob on the center console a pleasure to grip. The large pull flaps attached to the upper rear seats simplify the quick transition of this wagon from people hauler to product mover. We were able to sneak a bike through the rear hatch, though the inside fit proved a tight squeeze.

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2019 Volvo V60 T6 AWD Momentum
Operationally, the V60 proved to be an exceptionally responsive wagon, with sharp acceleration and surprisingly good road manners. Volvo offers you 3 driving modes (Eco/Comfort/Dynamic) each time you start the V60. The mode selector dial carries the same polished diamond face as the start button. For freeway trips, we were content to leave the mode in Comfort setting, which afforded a plush ride over bumps but rather lax management of directional change. For more challenging back road work, we opted for the Dynamic setting which tightened steering reaction to razor sharpness and also honed throttle response as well. Handling of our test T6 benefited from fitment of optional 10 spoke, 19 inch Momentum Alloy Wheels ($800) which planted 235/40R19 Pirelli P Zero All Season rubber with a wear rating of TW 400. These mud and snow rated Pirellis provides good stick, helping to elevate the overall performance of the two ton V60 to near sports sedan standards.

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2019 Volvo V60 T6 AWD Momentum
Our particular model enjoyed the benefits of a number of option packages that brought the bottom line to $54,690. The "Advanced Package," which added $2,500 to the overall price, brings you Pilot Assist, a semi-autonomous drive system with adaptive cruise control. It also includes a 360 degree surround view camera and a graphical head-up information display on the windshield. A further $2,500 added a Sensus Navigation Pro and a Harman Kardon entertainment system. The map is displayed on a 12.3 inch digital dashboard monitor, with a smaller auxiliary map illuminated between the tachometer and the speedometer. Finally, a $2,100 "Premium Package" provides blind spot monitoring (BSM), front and rear park assist and keyless entry. By making BSM optional, however, Volvo falls behind the competition, which now offers this feature as standard equipment.

Even at its all-in price of $54,690, the V60 T6 AWD Momentum is a finely crafted offering in a market segment that has been plundered by the avalanche of SUVs. If you prefer driving a low slung car to a high pitched truck, take a good look at the V60 T6.




2019 VOLVO V60 T6 AWD MOMENTUM

    ENGINE: In-line 4 cylinder, turbocharged and supercharged, direct injection
    HORSEPOWER: 316hp@5700rpm
    TORQUE: 295lb.-ft.@2200rpm
    FUEL CONSUMPTION: 21MPG City/31MPG Highway
    PRICE AS TESTED: $54,690

HYPES: Exquisite Finish, High Performance

GRIPES: Sensus Connect Interface Baffling

STAR RATING: 8.5 Stars out of 10