12:55 pm, February 29, 2012
Volvo has slotted its eco driVe technology under the bonnet of its stylish V60. What’s it like? James Batchelor reports
WHAT IS IT?
This is Volvo’s answer to a raft of eco D-segment cars hitting the market and aims to show that the Swedish estate can be stylish, modern and environmentally friendly too.
WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?
Volvo’s familiar 1.6-litre four-cylinder diesel unit as found in a number of its siblings. It can punch out 113bhp while emitting 119g/km and returning a combined MPG figure of 62.8. All come with start/stop to improve its green credentials.
WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?
DRIVe can be ordered on any trim level – from the entry-level ES right up to the sporty R-Design model costing £27,575. Our test car was the £24,920 ES which boasted cruise control, electric and heated door mirrors, 16-inch alloys, and audio controls on the steering wheel.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Despite its low power output, the V60 DRIVe is quite pleasant to drive. Well-weighted steering, comfortable seats and a charmingly wallowy ride add up to an enjoyable car to soak up the miles. We managed 58.5mpg.
WHAT DO THE PRESS THINK OF IT?
Car buying website carbuzz.co.uk said: ‘We’d recommend it to anyone looking for a stylish mid-sized estate and would give the 1.6-litre DRIVe engine the thumbs up, but we’d skip on the R-Design pack.’
WHAT DO WE THINK OF IT?
We like the looks and the specification and we think customers will be very happy with it. Slightly keener pricing wouldn’t have gone amiss.
