2016 Volvo V60: diesel cheaper, Polestar cut

Volvo have rationalised their V60 wagon lineup for 2016. Slow-selling base models, and sadly, the hi-po V60 Polestar, have been cut from the range.

However, a generous cut to the price of the previously mid-range Luxury means entering the V60 range actually gets a little cheaper, at $57,675. That’s $315 less than the former D4 Kinetic base model.

There are now just two engines on offer in the V60 range: one diesel and one petrol from Volvo’s relatively new range of Drive-E engines that have impressed us.

The diesel D4 is a two-litre four with twin turbocharging. A small power boost arrives for 2016, with outputs now at 140kW and 400Nm. On the combined cycle, Volvo say the D4 will return 4.5L/100km. The diesel is only available in Luxury grade at just under $58k.

A turbo petrol called T5 continues to be offered. It’s a sweet unit shared with the V40 among others, producing 180kW and 350Nm. It’s no slouch, sprinting to 100 in 6.4 seconds while returning 6.8L/100km.

The T5 is available in Luxury spec ($59,990), or as a sportier R-Design trim ($63,990).

Both the D4 and T5 are front-wheel-drivers with power running through an eight-speed conventional automatic gearbox.

The top-spec R-Design gets racier looks outside and in.

Shared spec across the V60 range is good: all cars receive satellite navigation, leather, power adjustments for the front seats, and cornering bi-xenon headlights. On the safety front, kids can make use of integrated booster seats up the back; there’s also autonomous emergency braking standard, alongside a reversing camera and rear sensors.

Key options fall in price, too. The Driver Support Pack is a worthwhile investment, falling from $5,000 to $4,000. It brings active cruise control, blind spot assistance, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver alert system.

2016 Volvo V60: Australian price

• V60 D4 Luxury: $57,675
• V60 T5 Luxury: $59,990
• V60 T5 R-Design: $63,990

Key options

• Driver Support Pack (advanced safety technology): $4,000
• Metallic paint: $1,325