The Volvo V60 Cross Country has long been admired for its unique blend of Scandinavian design, luxurious comfort, and rugged capability. It’s a vehicle that appeals to those seeking something different from the mainstream SUV crowd, offering the practicality of a wagon with a raised ride height for added versatility. The 2025 model year continues this tradition, boasting an elegant exterior and a meticulously crafted interior. However, as with recent Volvo models, questions about electronic reliability persist, casting a shadow over an otherwise compelling package.
Lingering Electronic Gremlins: A Cause for Concern
During a recent test drive of the 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country, a disconcerting issue arose that mirrors experiences with other new Volvos. Shortly after receiving an over-the-air software update, the vehicle’s central display screen froze completely while driving on the freeway. This malfunction rendered all screen-based controls unresponsive, including essential functions like navigation, media, and even climate control adjustments – although thankfully, the air conditioning had been activated beforehand. While restarting the car eventually resolved the problem, the incident raises serious questions about the robustness of Volvo’s electronic systems.
This isn’t an isolated incident. Experiences with multiple recent Volvo models suggest a pattern of electronic glitches, particularly with the infotainment system. In a landscape where seamless technology integration is paramount, these recurring issues are not just inconvenient; they erode trust in the vehicle’s overall dependability. For a luxury car in 2024, such behavior is simply unacceptable and detracts significantly from the ownership experience.
Other Areas for Improvement in the Volvo V60 Cross Country
Beyond the significant electronic malfunction, several other aspects of the 2025 V60 Cross Country warrant attention. The backup camera’s performance at night is noticeably dark, a common complaint among Volvo vehicles. To achieve adequate visibility, drivers often need to apply the brakes to engage the brake lights for added illumination. Furthermore, the expansive central display, while visually impressive, lacks the functionality to simultaneously show both rear and top-view camera perspectives – a feature readily available in more mainstream vehicles.
Small usability quirks also detract from the overall refinement. The volume knob, while physically present, produces an audible click with each increment, even at higher speeds, which can be distracting. The power windows operate at a leisurely pace, and the climate control fan speed settings offer limited differentiation between levels three through five, effectively providing only two distinct fan speeds beyond the lowest setting.
The Enduring Appeal: Design, Comfort, and Classic Volvo Strengths
Despite these criticisms, the Volvo V60 Cross Country retains many of the qualities that have made Volvos desirable for decades. The exterior design embodies Scandinavian minimalism, projecting an understated elegance that remains timelessly handsome. The interior is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring high-quality materials, including supple leather and tasteful metal accents. The seats are exceptionally comfortable and supportive, ideal for long journeys. Volvo also excels in areas like headlight performance and rapid seat and steering wheel heating, further enhancing occupant comfort.
Driving Dynamics and Performance of the V60 Cross Country
Under the hood, the 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While not overtly powerful, producing 247 horsepower, the engine delivers adequate performance for daily driving. Fuel economy averaged around 23 MPG during testing, which is somewhat underwhelming for a four-cylinder engine, especially when compared to larger, more powerful vehicles achieving similar figures. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, but throttle response can be inconsistent, particularly at low speeds, sometimes resulting in abrupt starts or hesitant acceleration.
The V60 Cross Country prioritizes ride comfort, effectively absorbing road imperfections, a characteristic enhanced by its raised suspension and softer tuning. While not designed for spirited driving, the handling is composed for everyday use. The steering, however, lacks feedback and feels somewhat vague, even in its “firm” setting. The Cross Country variant’s increased ground clearance and off-road mode provide some capability for হালকা off-pavement excursions, but its ground clearance remains less than many mainstream SUVs, limiting its true off-road potential.
Final Verdict: Style and Comfort Hampered by Reliability Woes
The 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country presents a compelling package with its attractive design, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. Its pricing, especially when fully equipped, can also be seen as competitive within the luxury wagon segment. However, the persistent electronic reliability issues are a significant drawback. Until Volvo demonstrably resolves these concerns across its model range, it’s difficult to wholeheartedly recommend the V60 Cross Country or other new Volvos. Potential buyers should carefully weigh the vehicle’s undeniable strengths against the risk of experiencing frustrating electronic malfunctions.
2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country B5 AWD Ultra
As-tested price: $64,135
Pros: Distinctive Volvo styling inside and out, luxurious and comfortable cabin.
Cons: Questionable electronic reliability, some minor usability issues.
2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country rear view
