Once upon a time, a Volvo wagon was the ultimate example of practicality trumping style. The old, bread box-on wheels Volvos announced that the owner was more concerned with safety than elegance. Now, you can have it both ways. To my eyes, the all-new 2010 Volvo XC60 T6, a five-passenger crossover wagon, is one of the most spectacularly curvaceous newcomers on the road this year. Our Terra Bronze Metallic tester from Al Johnson Volkswagen Volvo in Dalton, Ga., came equipped with a gorgeous two-tone leather interior and real oak accents. Throw in class-leading safety technology, and the XC60 T6 covers all the bases.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS: The XC60s turbocharged in-line six-cylinder engine (281 horsepower) delivers power to spare. Carving up back roads in the Dalton area, the XC60 was a blast to drive. Edmunds.com, an automotive Web site, estimates the XC60 will scoot from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.1 seconds. Our all-wheel-drive tester delivered tight handling and plenty of road grip. A slew of active safety systems make the XC60 one of the most confident cars on the road. A Collision Avoidance Package includes a monitoring system that sounds an alarm if the wheels touch a lane line with the turn signal off. At low speeds the XC60s City Safety system is capable of commandeering the brakes if it senses a low-speed collision is imminent. “If you get too close to a car it will automatically slow down,” explained Lee Rogers, an Al Johnson Volvo Volkswagen sales representative. “If you drift over into another lane, a beep goes off.” Can an electronic chauffeur be far behind?

FEATURES: The turbocharged six cylinder engine and all-wheel drive are standard on XC60s. Leather upholstery is also part of the standard, upscale interior. Options on our tester included metallic paint, a power tailgate and selected safety options. Larger families might opt for the seven-passenger XC90.

BOTTOM LINE: The Volvo XC60 T6 is part of one of the fastest-growing segments of the automotive industry. These premium crossovers include the Mercedes-Benz GLK, the Lexus RX350 and the Audi Q5 Quattro. If this is your league, and good looks and safety are your priorities, the XC60 is hard to beat.

(E-mail your questions about new vehicles to Mark Kennedy at mkennedy@timesfreepress.com.)

Comments

Posted comments do not represent the opinions of the Chattanooga Times Free Press. Profanities, slurs and libelous remarks are prohibited. To view complete guidelines for submitting content, comments and feedback, click here.

Quick Search for Cars

Your Stuff