2023 Volvo V60 Cross Country

We're so glad that wagons haven't died out entirely with the advent of SUVs and sedans - and the obsessions with giant pickups so unique to the USA - because cars like the 2023 Volvo V60 Cross Country still have so much to offer. For those wanting sedan-like comfort with SUV-type practicality, the wagon is an ideal compromise. And in V60 Cross Country specification, you can even take the rougher road from time to time. Alongside such cars as the Audi A4 allroad and the pricier Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain, the Volvo V60 Cross Country forges ahead as a consummate family car with a gorgeous cabin and all the gadgets needed to keep your loved ones safe. But with a rather timid engine making 247 horsepower, is it enough to keep it ahead of rivals?

With two models in the range for 2023, the price of the Volvo V60 Cross Country starts at $49,000 for the Plus model. At the top of the range, the wagon goes for $54,300 in Ultimate trim. These are the MSRP tags for the 2023 Volvo V60 Cross Country, and don't take the $1,095 destination fee into account.

One of the best things about a Volvo wagon is how wonderfully they drive. The V60 Cross Country is particularly joyous to pilot as the center of gravity is low and conducive to good grip (aided by the all-wheel-drive setup) and great control through corners. The Swedish brand has done well to provide a balance between sedan-like feel and crossover-like competence, and the 2023 V60 Cross Country will even manage a bit of rough road - and it can tow up to 2,000 pounds. It's not particularly spritely off the line, but there is a V60 Recharge without the rugged Cross Country trimmings for those who like their wagons with a potent powertrain. This Cross Country version is more a sedate, comfortable cruiser with the ability to hop a curb if needed.

The Volvo wagon is perhaps the best-looking of the bunch, and with a price nearing the $50k mark to start with, it's good that the interior is just as plush and comfortable. Its closest rival, the Audi A4 allroad, is priced between $45,900 and $55,800, is a little more powerful, and can get to 60 mph quite a bit quicker - so why would you opt for the Volvo instead? The safety review ratings for the Volvo V60 Cross Country are encouraging, and it comes with over 22 cubic feet of cargo space. But neither of these two aspects leave the Audi in the dust. Instead, the V60 Cross Country's serene interior and brilliant driving dynamics are likely to sway buyers, and we'd wager they won't be sorry for their purchase.

The base model is naturally most affordable, with a sub-$50k price tag. It comes with all the bases covered for safety and a list of features ensuring comfort - and while the top-spec Ultimate does add ventilated front seats, a much nicer sound system, and a head-up display, you wouldn't be at too much of a loss without it. There's no difference in power outputs to warrant the additional outlay, although there is a $1,400 Polestar Engineered Optimisation package that will tweak gearshifts and throttle response for a little more excitement. We'd stick with the Plus model as is.