Volvo V60 estate (2011-2018) - Interior & comfort

Comfort is somewhere the Volvo V60 scores very highly. The car has extremely supportive seats that mean even the longest journey should pass by without any aches and pains. All models get a driver’s seat that adjusts for height, while the steering wheel moves for rake and reach. Sound insulation is also among the best in class, with little disturbing the calm inside. That makes the V60’s stiff suspension all the more annoying. The V60 isn’t as comfortable as a Mercedes C-Class, although it does settle down at motorway speeds.

Surprisingly, one of the better models in the range for comfort is the V60 Polestar. It comes with tailor-made dampers from specialist firm Ohlins, tuned to deliver a ride that, while stiff, doesn't crash and thump into every bump in the road. That's very impressive when you consider it's fitted with big wheels as standard.

Volvo V60 dashboard

Many will appreciate the Volvo V60’s distinctive dashboard design, which features a ‘floating’ centre-console and ventilation controls that are a model of simplicity. The seven-inch sat-nav display isn’t as big as the 8.4-inch screen you get in the top-of-the-range Mercedes C-Class, but it’s detailed enough to make navigating the menus simple. The V60 sadly doesn’t get the excellent Sensus infotainment system fitted in newer models like the Volvo V90 estate and Volvo XC60 SUV, and it’s unlikely to make an appearance until a new V60 is launched.

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Equipment

Volvo splits its V60 line-up into two distinct groups. SE models represent the more luxurious side of the range, while cars in R-Design trims look nicely sporty. The Business Edition is the most basic model, but it comes with plenty of equipment including sat nav, DAB digital radio, Bluetooth phone connectivity, 16-inch alloy wheels, climate control and cruise control.

For 2017, Volvo has recognised the popularity of the Business Edition trim (accounting for almost a third of all V60 sales) and introduced the Business Edition Lux for customers who want low running costs (and a low BiK rating), but will also appreciate its reversing camera, 17-inch alloy wheels, instrument cluster digital information display and gloss black interior trim.

SE models add classier upholstery, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic folding door mirrors with LEDs that light up the roadside and rain-sensing wipers. If you go for an SE Lux, the car also comes with a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and powerful xenon headlights that follow the direction of the steering wheel, along with keyless entry.

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For more visual appeal, R-Design models come with 18-inch alloy wheels, matt silver door mirrors and stainless-steel-tipped exhaust pipes, while inside there are sports seats and snazzy aluminium trim. The R-Design Lux trim level has the same sporty looks and combines them with the SE Lux’s generous equipment. The Polestar model gets carbon fibre door mirror covers, some unique paint colours and a special seat upholstery with contrasting blue stitching.

Options

Volvo offers a range of option packs that can boost the performance of your V60, as well as adding equipment. The Winter Pack (£525) adds useful kit for the colder months, including heated front seats, a heated windscreen and heated headlight washers. Those covering lots of miles might want to consider the £1,900 Driver Support Pack, although it is a little pricey. This includes adaptive cruise control and safety features to help brake the car automatically and keep it in lane on the motorway. With an automatic gearbox, it will also accelerate and brake automatically in traffic to help reduce fatigue.