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The Final BMW V-12

by Mark | Jan 18, 2022 | 0 comments

Limited Edition BMW M760i xDrive
Only 12 vehicles will be released to the U.S.
MSRP of $200,995
U.S. production scheduled for June 2022

A regular production BMW M760i xDrive. (BMW photos)

BMW USA announced today, Jan. 18, that it will produce its last V-12 engine for a series production road vehicle this June, 2022.

To mark the occasion, BMW will offer The Final V12 as a limited series of 12 cars for the U.S. Based on the BMW M760i xDrive, the limited-edition model will feature special badging, wheels, and a broad choice of paint colors and upholstery offered by BMW Individual.

The First BMW V-12

BMW introduced its first road-going V-12 in 1987. The naturally-aspirated, five-liter M70 V-12 engine featured single overhead camshafts, two valves per cylinder, and drive-by-wire electronic throttle.

Today, the V-12 engine in The Final V12 displaces 6.6 liters and features direct-injection two mono-scroll turbochargers. The engine produces 601 hp between 5,500-6,500 rpm. With an eight-speed automatic transmission and peak torque of 590 foot-pounds from 1,550 to 5,000 rpm, the V-12 will launch the 5,128-pound sedan to 60 mph in a roaring 3.6 seconds. Its fuel-economy ratings on the recommended premium fuel are 13 mpg city, 20 highway, and 16 mpg combined.

The 601-hp BMW V-12 engine.

Special features for The Final V12 will include a simple but bold “V12” badge at the rear. In addition, unique 20-inch Style 760M double-spoke light-alloy wheels are painted in Window Grey or Jet Black, then burnished to a dark silver surface highlight. Formidable M Sport brakes with have blue or black calipers.

Threshold plates will distinguish the interior at each door sill inscribed with “THE FINAL V12.” There also is a similar plate on the cover of the 12-cylinder engine. In addition, BMW Individual Piano Black Finish trim surrounds the interior and features a console-mounted plaque commemorating the vehicle as “1 OF 12”.

Driver area of the M760Li .

The Final V12

The Final V12 will be offered only in a fully equipped configuration. Its special features will include:

BMW’s Driving Assistance Professional Package;
Luxury Rear Seating Package;
Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof;
Icon Adaptive LED Headlights with Laserlight;
Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound Audio System.

There are more than 80 paint colors and several tones of full Merino leather.

Owners also will be given a custom-built desk trophy to commemorate their specific vehicle. The trophy will itemize the special order paint, leather, and vehicle identification number as one of The Final V12 vehicles.

Loyal V-12 7-Series BMW owners will get the first invitations to buy the car.

The Final V-12 will have an MSRP of $200,995, including the $995 freight charge from Dingolfing, Germany, but not the gas-guzzler tax. Check here for the pricing of the 2022 M760i xDrive Sedan, which starts at $160,495.

Final V-12 production will begin in June 2022, with deliveries expected in July.

1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Impala Sport Coupe

by Mark | Jan 4, 2022 | 0 comments

The 1958 Impala was the top model for the Chevrolet Bel Air line of hardtops and convertibles. (Photos from GM Media Archive)

BY MARK MAYNARD

In the recession year of 1958, GM promoted its 50th year of production. In tribute, the company introduced anniversary models for each brand: Cadillac, Buick, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, and Chevrolet.

According to the Impala’s Wikipedia page, the 1958 models shared a common appearance on the top models for each brand: the Cadillac Eldorado Seville, Buick Limited Riviera, Oldsmobile Starfire 98, Pontiac Bonneville Catalina, and the Chevrolet Bel Air Impala.

“The 1958 Impala was the top model for the Bel Air line of hardtops and convertibles.

“From the windshield pillars rearward, the 1958 Bel Air Impala differed structurally from the lower-priced Chevrolet models. Hardtops had a slightly shorter greenhouse and a longer rear deck.

“The wheelbase of the Impala was longer than the lower-priced models, although the overall length was identical. Interiors held a two-spoke steering wheel and color-keyed door panels with brushed aluminum trim. No other series included a convertible.

The 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Impala helped Chevrolet regain the No. 1 production spot in this recession year.

“The 1958 Chevrolet models were longer, lower, and wider than their predecessors. And this was the first model year for dual headlamps.

“Deeply sculptured rear fenders replaced the tailfins of the 1957. In addition, impalas had three taillights on each side, while lesser models had two and wagons just one.

Impalas included crossed-flag insignias above the side moldings, bright rocker moldings, and dummy rear-fender scoops.

The Chevrolet Impala was identified by the image of a leaping African antelope in some form or another since its debut in 1958.

Chevrolet Impala Powertrains

A 283 cubic-inch V-8 was standard. Its power ratings ranged from 185 to 230 horsepower. When upgraded with Rochester Ramjet fuel injection, power output increased to 250 hp.

Two versions of Chevrolet’s first big-block 348-cubic-inch (5.7-liter) V-8 were optional:

A single four-barrel carburetor, producing 250;
Three two-barrel carburetors, 280 hp.

55,989 Impala convertibles and 125,480 coupes were built, representing 15 percent of Chevrolet production. In addition, the 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Impala helped Chevrolet regain the number-one production spot in this recession year.

Car Reviews

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Review

by Mark | Jan 4, 2022 | 0 comments

The redesigned and re-engineered 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander packs about everything that can be expected into a compact family-duty SUV

Exterior view of the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander has starting prices that range from $27,500 to $35,645 for the top-line SEL trim level with all-wheel drive. (Mitsubishi photos)

Outlander Overview

Now starting its fourth generation, the Outlander arrived in 2003 in North America and replaced the Mitsubishi Montero Sport. A 2018 redesign made the Outlander slightly larger than the previous model, but most of the size increase went to cabin space, which was widened by 2 inches. A plug-in hybrid model was added then and is still available.

The Outlander is the brand’s flagship SUV crossover, but it is more super-compact in size and almost midsize in its new, slightly larger proportions. In addition, a new-generation, plug-in hybrid 2023 Outlander PHEV will roll out in the U.S. in the second half of 2022.

The SEL Touring package includes semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery with quilted black-and-tan trim.

Most-Improved Brand

Mitsubishi Motors North America was the most improved U.S. brand in the “2021 Automotive Reputation Report” from Reputation, an online analytical research firm. The annual report included an analysis of 35,000 automotive OEM brands, dealer groups, and dealerships across the United States, Canada, and Europe. Graded on a 1,000-point scale, Mitsubishi Motors ranked fourth in 2021 among 19 non-luxury automotive brands. In addition, the carmaker improved from 17th place in 2020, posting a 58-point improvement.

What’s New for 2022?

For 2022, the cabin space was reshuffled to provide a third row. Outlander is the only compact-class SUV with a third row and seats for seven.

The added 1.5 inches in body length was just enough to add the third row. Its legroom is kid-class, but the 50/50 divided seats fold flat into the floor for substantial cargo space of 33.5 cubic feet (stacked to the headliner). The 11.7 cubic feet behind the third-row seats is plenty to corral bags of groceries. And there is underfloor storage, such as to stow the standard cargo roller cover.

A wider stance bolstered drivability; the front track is 2.1 inches wider and the rear is 2.5 inches wider. Alloy wheels and all-season tires are standard on all models. Entry-level models have 18-inch 235/60 tires, with 20-inch 255/45 tires on upper trims.

For improved visibility, the space between the windshield pillars and the side mirrors was expanded for better cornering views. In addition, the washer nozzles are now built into the wiper arms, which gives more consistent spray action and saves on fluid.

The 9-inch infotainment touchscreen.

2022 Outlander Redesign

The Outlander’s exterior styling was amped to the next level with the so-called “Bold Stride” design theme. It is intended to show width and stability, Mitsubishi says. The face is unmistakable. The prominent headlight nacelles are “Godfather” bold and intend to convey a fearless expression, Mitsubishi says.

2022 Outlander Pricing

The gasoline-powered Outlander is sold in three trim levels of ES, SE, and SEL. Front-wheel drive is standard, but Mitsubishi’s sophisticated Super All-Wheel Control 4WD is an affordable $1,800.

Starting prices range from $27,500 to $35,645 for the top-line SEL trim level with all-wheel drive. MSRP pricing includes the $1,245 freight charge from Okazaki, Japan.

Premium paint colors of White Diamond, Black Diamond, and Red Diamond are a $395 upgrade.

All trim levels have the same powertrain: a 181-horsepower, direct-injected 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission. The CVT masterfully imitates an eight-speed stepped transmission.

Today’s tester is an Outlander SEL 2.5 S-AWC that was $38,345, including the SEL Touring package, $2,700. The package includes:

Heated steering wheel;
Synthetic leather door inserts with quilted black-and-tan trim elements;
Semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery;
10.8-inch head-up windshield display;
10-speaker Bose audio system;
Power panoramic sunroof;
Rear side door pull-up sunshades.

Also included in the tester’s price is a roller tonneau cover ($195) and the Welcome Package ($160), which adds carpeted floor mats, a touch-up paint pen, and a mat for the center console tray.

The 2022 Outlander PHEV has a starting price of $38,400. Pricing for the 2023 Outlander PHEV will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Mitsubishi provides an excellent warranty package of 5 years or 60,000-miles for basic coverage with roadside assistance and 10 years or 100,000-miles for the powertrain. Also included is a 2-year subscription for Mitsubishi Connect for remote and safeguard services.

Find current pricing and incentives here.

The wide shift console.

Outlander Performance and Fuel Economy

A look under the hood can reveal much about the construction of a vehicle, whether the hoses, connectors, and various lines feel flimsy or tenuous. The Outlander’s assembly, parts, and plastics appear robust, and the metals are treated to resist rusting. Still, pennies were saved by not adding a dress-up engine kit.

The Outlander’s 2.5-liter engine (replacing a 2.4 liter) is newly developed by the Alliance, meaning the newly formed auto group of Renault, Nissan, and Mitsubishi. The global triumvirate allows shared costs for design, engineering, and technology. And looking closely at the Outlander, you might see a resemblance to the Nissan Rogue (but not its powertrain).

With 181 foot-pounds of torque, the four-cylinder engine has good force without turbocharging. The acceleration was so responsive that I did not feel the need to exercise the paddle shifters.

Braking is confident and controlled from ventilated four-wheel disc brakes. The front rotors are 13.8 inches, with 13-inch rotors at the rear.

Somehow, the Mitsu engineers trimmed 441 pounds from the 2022 curb weight, now at 3,803 pounds, and lighter weight is better for fuel economy.

The Outlander AWD has impressive, if difficult to achieve, mileage ratings of 24 mpg city, 30 highway, and 26 mpg combined on 87 octane fuel. In my week of testing, I worked up to 25.5 mpg combined, and it might have gone higher with a longer commute. The 14.5-gallon tank is good for up to 400 miles of range.

The panoramic sunroof is part of the SEL package.

Mitsubishi Outlander Ride and Handling

The independent suspension (front MacPherson struts and rear multilink with stabilizer bars) can feel stiff with the occasional jolt. But that firmness also adds to a feeling of stability and security in fast cornering and evasive maneuvers.

Despite sound-insulating glass in the front doors and windshield, the cabin can be noisy at highway speeds. The white noise could be induced in part by the 20-inch Bridgestone Ecopia H/L 422 Plus all-season tires. Bridgestone tires wear like iron, but the Ecopia is a low rolling resistance tire to maximize mileage. Consequently, it has a hard treadwear rating of 600. The good news is that the tire has a tread life warranty of five years or 70,000 miles.

Second-row legroom is quite comfortable at 39.9 inches.

Driver-Assist and Safety Features

Nearly all trim levels of Outlander include a full set of advanced safety technologies and features. Among the driver-assist features is MI-Pilot Assist for semi-autonomous driver-assist driving. Pilot assist is intended for long-distance driving and in the stop-and-go commute. The system uses Navi-Link adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane-keep assist, lane-departure prevention, and traffic sign recognition.

The Mitsubishi system is well calibrated for lane centering, and Pilot Assist can be a welcome drive partner, but always keep hands on the steering wheel. It is the highway markings that determine — and undermine — effectiveness. Faded white lines on light gray California Interstates can cause confusion and a random shutoff. Low sunlight into the grille sensor also can cause a shutoff, as can driving alongside a white semitrailer.

Standard Outlander safety features include 11 air bags, forward collision mitigation, blind-spot warning with lane-change assist, rear cross-traffic alert and rear emergency braking, and trailer-stability assist.

The 20-inch Outlander alloy wheel and all-season tire.

20-inch 255/45 all-season tires are standard on upper trim levels.

Outlander Interior Function

Outlander’s driver area is well-organized and has an ergonomic command center. Front headroom is tall at 38.8 inches with the panoramic sunroof or 40.6 inches without. A 12.3-inch digital driver gauge display is bold, bright, and easily readable with large text and graphics. And, the 9-inch infotainment touchscreen is upright in the instrument panel but not prone to glare; large graphics make the screen easy to read in all lighting conditions.

Sightlines are mostly unhindered over the front fenders and over the shoulder. Small corner windows at the rear tailgate pillars help with a peek of visibility. The glass also helps the third row feel more spacious.

The bigger enabler to visibility is the SEL’s multiview camera that displays the vehicle’s front, rear, and sides. I found the curb view especially helpful to avoid scraping the wheels. In addition, the Outlander’s tight turning circle of 36.1 feet is nimble in close parking structures or making a quick U-turn.

Eight-way power seats are standard for the SEL driver, but the passenger gets just a four-way power seat. Mitsubishi says the two-layer seat construction provides a soft initial touch while preventing fatigue on long drives.

The wide shift console could have been designed for more drop space, such as for the passenger’s phone. Wireless phone charging is standard on most trim levels, and the e-bin area includes two USB ports (1 C-type), an aux-in and a 12-volt plug. The armrest console has a small storage box.

Sun visors are deep and slide for more coverage, but their effectiveness is shorted at the windshield pillars.

The third row is as-needed seating. But the seats fold flat when not needed.

Rear Seats and Cargo Space

Second-row legroom is quite comfortable at 39.9 inches. The seats recline and have several inches of fore-aft slide, which is helpful to add a bit more legroom to the third row. In addition, a lowish exhaust-AWD tunnel helps with three-across seating.

The front seatbacks have a clever arrangement of two small storage pockets above the larger main pocket. Other conveniences include:
•Seat heaters and temperature control.
•Side-glass manual sunshades.
•Reading lights on either side of the pano roof.
There is bottle storage in the doors, and the center fold-down armrest also has cup holders.

The third row is as-needed seating, primarily for kids on the school commute or the grandkids. Legroom is a squeeze at 18.7 inches and headroom is low at 34.5 inches.

The third row has an easy sequence of manual fold and pull-back from the cargo area.

The cargo-area opening is wide at 45 inches by 31 inches tall. Fold the second and third rows for 6 feet of length. And there is subfloor storage for the roller cover.

Fold the second and third rows for 6 feet of cargo length.

Why Buy the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander?

The redesigned Outlander pushes its size limits. It looks large from the outside and is roomy inside, but it drives small.

The assembly and materials have a satisfying quality, and the well-equipped SEL tester has luxury appeal with enduring family function.

The Outlander’s small-is-large format will work for young families or empty-nesters ready to downsize — but with room for the grandkids.

My most significant takeaway from this test is Outlander’s long list of technologies, standard safety features, and the pile-on of lux-class extras — for the as-tested price of $38,700. Put the same level of content on a compact luxury SUV and the sticker would be $58,000 to $65,000.

The tailgate design is meant to mimic the image of the spare tire mounted on the back of SUVs past.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL Specifications

Body style: midsize, 7-seat, 5-door SUV with Super All-Wheel Drive

Engine: 181-hp, direct-injection, DOHC 2.5-liter 4-cylinder; 181 lb.-ft. torque at 3,600 rpm

Transmission: 8-speed CVT with Sport mode and paddle shifters

Fuel economy: 24/30/26 mpg city/hwy/combined; 87 octane

BY THE NUMBERS

Towing capacity: 2,000 lbs.

Fuel tank: 14.5 gallons

Cargo space: 11.7-33.5 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.8*/41.7 in. *40.6 w/o sunroof

2nd-row head/leg room: 37.4*/39.9 in. *39.1 w/o sunroof

3rd-row head/leg room: 34.5/18.7 in.

Length/wheelbase: 185.4/106.5 in.

Curb weight: 3,803 lbs.

Turning circle: 36.1 ft.

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: SmartKey locking and push-button ignition, MI-PILOT Assist with navigation with traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, 9-inch navigation screen with smartphone link, wireless charging, multiview camera system, electric parking brake, 4 USBs (including 2 C-type), 8-way power driver’s seat, 4-way power front passenger seat, 6-speaker audio system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front and 2nd-row seats, front parking sensors, 20-inch alloy wheels with 255/45 all-season tires, 40/20/40 folding 2nd row, LED headlights-running lights-fog lights, automatic headlights, heated and power-folding side mirrors, front wiper de-icer, and a hands-free power liftgate

Safety features include: 11 air bags, lane-keep assist, forward collision mitigation, lane-departure prevention, blind-spot warning with lane-change assist, rear cross-traffic alert and rear emergency braking, brake-force distribution, brake assist, hill-start assist, active stability control, trailer-stability assist

PRICING

Base price: $35,645, including Mitsubishi Connect Subscription for 2 years and $1,245 freight charge; price as tested $38,700

Options on test vehicle: SEL Touring Package, $2,700, includes a heated steering wheel, synthetic leather door inserts with black and tan quilting, semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery, 10.8-inch head-up display, 10-speaker Bose audio system, panoramic sunroof, rear side window sunshades

Tonneau cover $195
Welcome package $160, includes carpeted floor mats, touch-up paint pen, center console tray mat

Where assembled: Okazaki, Japan

Warranty: 5-years/60,000-miles basic coverage with roadside assistance; 10-years/100,000-miles powertrain

2022 Honda Rose Parade float aims to inspire dreamers

by Mark | Dec 17, 2021 | 0 comments

• Honda float will lead the Jan. 1, 2022, 133rd Rose Parade and introduce a theme of “Dream. Believe. Achieve.”
• Snapchat filter will enable viewers to build a virtual jet pack to fly over the parade route.
• 2022 Acura NSX Type S and 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport will serve as official vehicles.

A color drawing of the 2022 Honda Rose Parade float

Honda’s “Believe and Achieve!” float celebrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) education.

BY MARK MAYNARD

Honda will showcase two new road and track assets witth its “Believe and Achieve!” parade float for the 2022 133rd Rose Parade on Jan. 1.

As presenting sponsor of the Rose Parade for the 12th consecutive year, Honda hopes to inspire young people to follow their dreams. The float depicts a young girl whose dreams have taken flight with a rocket pack she designed and built through her own ingenuity and passion.

Four Honda women associates will be aboard in tribute to education supporting science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). The female engineers on the Honda float are Sue Bai, Nicole Harvel, Melanie Morimoto, and Yolanda Pate. All of whom work at Honda locations in Michigan, South Carolina, California, and Alabama. Their focus is on advanced vehicle safety research, manufacturing, and product quality.

With its North American regional headquarters in Torrance, Honda is the largest automaker in Southern California, including three R&D facilities in the Greater Los Angeles area.

The float is powered by a specially configured 3.5-liter V-6 engine from Honda.

Virtual Rose Parade Flyover

On New Year’s Day, Honda will offer parade attendees and at-home viewers the opportunity to virtually fly over the parade route using a custom Snapchat filter. The filter will enable users to embrace their inner engineer as they don a virtual helmet and goggles, assemble a jet pack, and fly over a portion of the parade route. Honda also will host parade-related content on its TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter channels.

A track image of the 600 horsepower Acura NSX Type S

The limited-edition 600-hp Acura NSX Type S. (Acura)

Official Parade Pace and Sound Vehicles

Pacing the 2022 Rose Parade will be the new Acura NSX Type S supercar. With the final design completed at the Acura Design Studio in Torrance, the all-wheel-drive NSX was designed and developed by Honda engineers in Raymond, Ohio, and is hand-built exclusively at the company’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio.

Only 350 of the Type S model will be produced, with 300 units destined for U.S. customers. In addition, the new paint color, Gotham Gray matte metallic, will be applied to just 70 of the 350 cars to be built.

NSX Type S MSRP pricing starts at $169,500 or $182,500 with the lightweight package, which includes carbon-ceramic brakes in one of four colors, carbon engine cover, and carbon interior trim. The light-weighting trims the total curb weight by approximately 57.8 pounds.

The new for 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport

The 2022 Honda Passport was restyled front and rear. (Honda)

The new 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport will be the sound vehicle for the parade. The new Passport was designed at the Honda Design Studio in Torrance and developed by Honda engineers in Raymond, Ohio. The Passport is built at Honda’s Alabama Auto Plant in Lincoln, Ala.

The 2022 Honda Passport has updated front and rear styling. The appearance is new from the windshield pillars forward and includes a sculpted hood with a power bulge, squared-off nose, upright grille, and revised front fenders. At the back, a more aggressively styled rear bumper features cutouts for larger twin exhaust outlets, a tow hitch cover, and a metallic skid panel.

The unibody Passport has an independent front and rear suspension, standard 280-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine, and nine-speed automatic transmission. The i-VTM4 torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system is optional.

The Passport TrailSport, with standard i-VTM4 all-wheel drive, has a starting MSRP of $43,695, including the $1,225 freight charge from Lincoln, Ala.

2022 Volvo XC60 B6 AWD R-Design Review

by Mark | Dec 9, 2021 | 0 comments

The Volvo XC60 SUV has polite manners and efficient engine technology, but its purity of Volvoness separates this SUV from the competition

An exterior view of a white Volvo XC60 SUV crossover.

The Volvo XC60 SUV has had a few exterior updates for 2022 and some significant advanced technology additions, such as CleanZone air filtration. (Photos courtesy of Volvo unless otherwise credited.)

Volvo says the XC60 was not designed to look down on others but to drive. In some ways, it is the missing link that merges a car with an SUV for uncompromising Scandinavian design. This five-seat SUV crossover has polite manners, efficient engine technology, and family function. But its allure is more than function and style; it is its purity of Volvoness that resonates.

The 10-way power seats are gently contoured and supportive for the long haul.

Volvo XC60 Overview

The first-generation XC60 for North America debuted in 2010, and it has continued as Volvo’s top-selling model — around the world. The second-gen debuted for 2018 and was made 1.8 inches longer and about the same width, but with a roofline that is 2.1 inches lower. In addition, the wheelbase lengthened by 3.6 inches, now at 112.8 inches.

The freshened 2022 model builds on that midsize footprint and adds a few significant updates. While the exterior changes for 2022 are subtle, Volvo’s attention to detail and some unique extras reinforce ownership.

The gas-engine XC60 models now have “mild hybrid” engines helping Volvo reach its goal of total electrification by 2030. By then, the company intends to sell only fully electric cars and phase out any vehicle in its global portfolio with an internal combustion engine, including hybrids.

And a unique addition is Volvo’s CleanZone air filtration system. The system can stop up to 95 percent of pollutants from entering the passenger compartment.

An overhead view from the multiview camera

The 360-degree surround view camera system includes overhead.

New for 2022

Highlights of the 2022 changes include:

Updated grille with updated and heated logo (for a clear Pilot Assist camera in all weather conditions);
Restyled front fascia with stronger horizontal lines in the lower fascia and a restyled rear fascia with hidden tailpipes;
New wheel designs and some new paint colors, including Silver Dawn Metallic;
Next-generation Android infotainment system integrated with Google. Included are Google Assistant with natural voice recognition, Google Maps with real-time traffic information, Google Play Store for media apps, and Bluetooth audio and phone connectivity.
Over-the-air software updates using the Volvo Cars app for such areas as propulsion systems, new features, bug fixes, and infotainment enhancements. In addition, Volvo says drivers of the pure electric XC40 Recharge should see an improved driving range. Its Range App will help maximize battery usage and give cold weather warnings for optimal battery performance.

Other XC60 infotainment features include 4G LTE connectivity with Wi-Fi hotspot, USB input, Google keyboard, and full Apple iPhone compatibility

The 295-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder B6 engine is turbocharged and supercharged.

2 New Gas Engines

The Volvo XC60 is sold in gas-powered or gasoline-electric plug-in hybrid models.

Two new 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engines debut mild hybrid electrification through a new 48-volt system. The system combines a 13-hp ISG or Integrated Starter Generator.

The ISG is notable for a couple of reasons. First, it provides a silent, fast and refined start/stop function, Volvo says. And it facilitates the engines’ idle stop-start operation and gives a torque boost at low speed.

What were engine designations of T5 and T6 are now B5 and B6. As before, the B5 engine is turbocharged, and the B6 is turbocharged and supercharged. The B5 has 247 horsepower and 258 foot-pounds of torque from 1,800 to 4,800 rpm.

The 295-hp B6 engine gets a new electric supercharger, or e-Charger, which replaces a mechanical supercharger. The e-Charger is quieter and provides enhanced engine response, Volvo says.

In addition, the B5 and the B6 now have electronic shifting and braking “by wire.” The latter allows brake energy to be banked and used to boost overall efficiency and fuel economy.

Volvo’s thoughtful engineering includes one of the most orderly engine bays I’ve seen. The engine shows off with a large, black plastic shroud and the secondary hood release is easy to find. Dual struts easily raise the hood to a near-vertical position.

Back seat space has adult-class legroom of 38 inches.

Volvo XC60 Pricing

The gas XC60 is sold three trim levels of Momentum, Inscription, and R-Design. All models have a choice of B5 or B6 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines and Volvo’s eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission.

Front-wheel drive is the standard drive layout with the optional advanced AWD system. (The AWD system has “instant on,” with little chance for the wheels to begin slipping on startup.)

Starting MSRPs range from $43,745 to $51,245 to $49,895. Today’s tester is the XC60 B6 AWD R-Design that was $65,890. Pricing includes the $1,095 freight charge from Gothenburg, Sweden.

The price difference between the B5 engine and the B6 is about $6,500. AWD adds $2,300.

The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge is sold in three 400-horsepower trim levels with starting prices ranging from $55,345 for the Inscription to $61,495 for the R-Design and up to $70,595 for the 415 hp XC60 Polestar T8 eAWD. The hybrid system allows about 19 miles of electric driving before switching to the 2.0-liter gas engine.

Check here for current pricing and incentives.

Volvo New Vehicle Warranty

The Volvo warranty package is for four years or 50,000 miles with roadside assistance and free scheduled maintenance for 3-years/36,000-miles. Also unique is that Volvo pays for four years of Google Assistant and Google Maps with its ever-helpful road sign information.

Cargo space is wide and square.

The 48-volt lithium-ion battery is in the upper left corner below the cargo floor. (Mark Maynard photo)

XC60 B6 Performance and Fuel Economy

Dual “charging” of the B6 engine gets the most out of its 2.0-liter engine. But moving away from a stop can seem sluggish — the tester weighs 4,238 pounds — until the e-supercharger kicks in. Then, the turbocharger carries the power into the higher rpms.

Once moving, the acceleration is responsive at all speeds. The eight-speed automatic gives easy downshifts, though timed to maximize fuel economy.

Dial up Sport mode and the performance attitude sharpens, but it is not hell-bent. I used the Sport mode in traffic to keep the power on point and then dialed back to Comfort on the open road for more fuel economy.

Fuel economy estimates for the B6 AWD are 21 mpg city, 27 highway and 24 mpg combined, on the recommended premium. I was averaging 23.4 to 24 mpg. Front-drive models have mileage ratings of 23/30/26 mpg. And the 18.8-gallon tank gives a substantial cruising range.

The electric steering has smooth rotation with adequate road feedback. In addition, the level of steering-wheel resistance can be made lighter or heavier by accessing the drive mode categories through the touchscreen. The turning circle is tight at 37.4 feet — an engineering accomplishment with all-wheel drive, the long wheelbase and 21-inch Pirelli Scorpion tires (an R-Design upgrade).

XC60 Pilot Assist

The Pilot Assist (part of the $2,050 Advanced package) is a suite of driver-assist systems for hands-on-the-wheel semi-autonomous driving. The assist system works on highways and at speeds up to 80 mph, and does not require a car in front to follow. The system will steer, accelerate and brake as needed.

The guidance calibrations work well enough, but the vehicle still crossed over the white line a few times and then gave me loud tones as a warning (as if I did something wrong). That’s why the driver must always stay vigilant and keep hands on the steering wheel. Pilot Assist is best used on major highways in stop-and-go commuter traffic.

These systems can also be prone to shutoff in low-light or shadowy conditions (such as under a highway overpass) and low sunlight into the camera, such as sunset. I’ve also experienced assist cancellations when traveling alongside a white semi-trailer. And California’s light gray concrete can confuse when the white lines are faded or disrupted.

XC60 R-Design Ride and Handling

Among the significant options on the tester was the four-corner air suspension, a stand-alone extra at $1,800. Volvo’s active chassis maintains ride height automatically and adapts each shock absorber to current road and driving conditions.

The suspension gently yields when stepping over speed bumps or along sections of broken road. Power hard into a corner and the nose follows the trajectory with a flat attitude and no unwieldy suspension rebound. But under light load on lumpy or crumbling road surfaces, the air suspension gets busy trying to balance the heaves and unevenness.

At higher speeds, the air suspension lowers the vehicle automatically to reduce drag and enhance stability. In addition, an Off-Road mode increases ground clearance. And loading or unloading cargo or tailgating, the cargo height can be lowered by 3 inches by pushing a button inside the load area.

The cabin is well soundproofed and the big Pirellis are a delicious upgrade for quiet rolling and supple grip. Braking is absolute and without grab or dive from 12.7-inch front discs, 11.9-inch rear.

XC60 Safety Features

Volvo is a safety champion, but I’m still not a supporter of the iPadlike touchscreen. The vertical screen in the center of the instrument panel is used to access just about everything, although there is a knob for audio volume. But making adjustments to temperature, fan speed, or seat heaters is a two-touch process, which usually takes eyes from the road.

However, the XC60 has an arsenal of other safety features, including City Safety. The collision avoidance system recognizes pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals. It also adds lane-keep assist and oncoming lane mitigation, which will take over steering if needed to avoid a head-on or front-corner impact.

Other standard safety features include six air bags, blind-spot warning, and cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping steering assist, oncoming lane mitigation (with steering assist), and hill-descent control.

The 9-inch touchscreen in the Volvo instrument panel

Hey Google!

CleanZone Air Filtration

For people prone to breathing ailments, Volvo’s CleanZone air filtration system can mean the difference between going out and staying.

The advanced filter system (a world first, the company says) will trap airborne particles as small as 2.5 microns (PM 2.5). There are about 25,000 microns in an inch. The widths of the larger particles in the PM 2.5 size range would be about 30 times smaller than a human hair. The smaller particles are so small that several thousand could fit on the period at the end of this sentence.

The system’s multifilter also helps reduce dust, pollen, particles, and chemical odors.

The cabin can be pre-cleaned before entering the car using the Volvo Cars app. And on a warm day, the automatic CleanZone helps ventilate the passenger compartment when the vehicle is unlocked.

XC60 Interior Function

The interior design is artful but functional — mostly. The cabin is roomy with considerable headroom of 38 inches, even with the panoramic roof. Sightlines are unobstructed across the hood or over the shoulder. And the 360-degree surround-view camera system is a worthwhile addition to the Advanced package, $2,050, which includes Pilot Assist with adaptive cruise control.

The 10-way power seats, including seat-bottom tilt, are gently contoured and supportive for the long haul.

The switch controls for the front map lights and sunroof are touch-sensitive and require just a light touch to activate.

There is open access to the wireless charging pad on the shift console. Storage areas are somewhat limited, but there is a huge, nonlocking glove box and door panels with separate spaces for a large bottle and catchall space. The center armrest has a small storage box, which houses two USBs, including one C-type.

12.3-inch configurable driver gauge array.

Back Seat and Cargo Space

Back seat space has adult-class legroom of 38 inches, but with a slight butts-down, knees-up position with no seatback recline. There are numerous conveniences, including the coat hooks on the B-pillars. The broad, fold-down armrest is padded with pop-forward cup holders and covered but slim storage.

Back-seat B pillars have a vertical vent that provides airflow that is so helpful for passengers prone to motion discomfort. And there also is a pair of vents in the center floor console, along with fan and temperature controls, seat-heater switches, and a USB. Overhead grab handles include a hook for dry cleaning.

Cargo space is wide and square, with 17.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row or up to 29.4 cu.ft. with the back seat folded. The 60/40 split rear seat has release tabs in the cargo that drop easily. A handy hook and strap are provided to hold up the cargo floor when looking for the jack and flat-tire inflator. There also are dual side lights and a 12-volt plug. A side storage space has about a cubic foot of stash space, separated by a net.

Road Sign Information

How often do we drive and see no or very few speed-limit signs? Enter the eye-in-the-sky Road Sign Information. It might be one of those extras that the uninitiated might see as unnecessary. And Volvo pays for the subscription for the length of the warranty. The system alerts to speed limits, “no passing,” “do not enter,” and various types of supplementary signs.

The road sign is displayed on the speedometer or in the head-up display. It can also inform you about speed cameras. And if you drive in the wrong direction on a one-way street, you’ll be alerted with a no-entry sign icon.

Panoramic Moonroof

The dark-tinted laminated glass roof has a front section that opens or tilts and a power-operated fabric sunshade. When the vehicle is parked outside in hot weather, the sunshade closes automatically when the outside temperature reaches 77 degrees. And the roof can be closed from outside the vehicle with the remote key.

The dark-tinted laminated glass roof has a front section that opens or tilts and a power-operated fabric sunshade.

What’s not to like?

For the as-tested price of nearly $67,000, savvy luxury-segment drivers might expect ventilated seats to go with the optional heated front seats.
A cargo area roller cover is a $295 option.
Modest fuel economy.
The sun visors are inadequate on driver’s left. The lower left edge is contoured to fit neatly into the headliner, which leaves a wide margin of the windshield where the sun invariably shines through.
Volvo’s distinctive head restraints, somewhat forward-leaning, can bother some taller occupants.

Why Buy the Volvo XC60 B6 R-Design?

A statement of style is important to this owner, and there is a genuine resonance to the gentleness of Volvo design and engineering.

While the Inscription trim level is luxurious, I prefer the sportier tone of the R-Design. I’d fret less about children scuffing the interior and I’d feel less guilt using it as a utility vehicle, as the Norse god Thor intended.

At nearly $67,000, the tester was fully priced, but it also has unique pleasures to relieve the price-point pain.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 has a restyled rear fascia with hidden tailpipes.

Volvo XC60 B6 AWD R-Design Specifications

Body style: midsize, 5-seat AWD

Engine: 295-hp, direct Injected and turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with idle stop-start; 310 lb.-ft. torque from 2,100-4,800 rpm

Transmission: 8-speed Geartronic

Fuel economy: 21/27/24 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium required

0-60 mph acceleration: 5.9 seconds

Coefficient of drag: 0.32