LOOKS

The idea of a station wagon brings up old images of boxy rides from the 1970s. But those days are gone. Nowadays you can get the versatility of a wagon without looking like a relic (unless you’re into that sort of thing).

The exterior design is an example of a modern design that doesn’t blend in with the rest of the vehicles you’ll find on the road.

One benefit of the Cross Country version of the V60 is that adds some ground clearance (you get 7.9 inches total) compared to the regular V60 wagon, which will help folks who want to do a bit of light off-roading or those who often drive in snowy regions.

The downside of that clearance, though, is that it can lead to a bit rougher ride at times.

On the inside, the V60 Cross Country has a luxurious feel and solid tech offerings, with power retractable exterior mirrors; rain-sensing windshield wiper and leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather seating. Also offered are heated front seats, power child locks (rear doors), heated steering wheel and heated windshield.

One area where I was disappointed was the comfort level of the V60 Cross Country’s driver seat, which seemed very tight and restricting. There is seating for five, but it’s tight with all five spots filled, especially in the rear. And cargo capacity could be better.

On the plus side, the rear seats fold flat so you can maximize the space you do have for storage.

ENGINE, HORSEPOWER

New for 2017 on the V60 Cross Country is a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four cylinder engine, plus an 8-speed automatic transmission; The previous model year’s five-cylinder engine is gone, and as a result the V60 CC runs more smoothly and more quietly, as well as being more quick to accelerate and better on gas mileage.

Numbers on the V60 Cross Country are: 240 horsepower, 258 lb.-ft. of torque and 3,500-lb. towing capacity.

It comes standard as an all-wheel-drive vehicle, and offers a powerful and enjoyable overall ride; though it is occasionally a bit rough in the handling department. It’s not a true off-roader, but can venture a bit off the city streets.

TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY

Volvo’s Sensus infotainment system, and its 7-inch color LCD monitor, has controls that are a bit tricky at first, but you do get used to it quickly. Voice commands generally work well.

Navigation is standard, and for music options the vehicle features CD player, HD radio, AUX input, USB port, Bluetooth connection and 6 months of free Sirius satellite radio.

A WiFi hotspot is offered (including a 6-month subscription, or 3 GB of data use).

Standard features on the V60 CC include: Auto headlights; hill descent control, sunroof, rear parking sensors, and dual-zone automatic climate control

Optional safety features include: Harmon Kardon premium audio; Active Dual Xenon headlights with washers; accent lighting; Rear park assist camera; Adaptive Cruise Control; Pedestrian/cyclist detection; Lane Keeping Aid; Blind Spot Information System; Front and Rear Park Assist; and seat belts with pretensioners.

Volvo has a stellar safety reputation, and if you add features like this, you’ll have little to worry about in that department.

MPG
Official fuel mileage numbers on the 2017 Volvo V60 Cross Country are 22 city/30 highway/25 combined. This is a positive change for the new model year, and ranges near its main luxury wagon competitors (Audi A4 AllRoad, BMW 3-series Sports Wagon, Mercedes E-Class wagon)

PRICE
My test vehicle was just over $50,000; base price for the 2017 Volvo V60 CC starts about $41K.
This is about level in price with BMW and Audi, and less than the Mercedes option. If you feel like dropping down from luxury, the Subaru Outback is a more affordable wagon option.

BOTTOM LINE

Those who seek a versatile and safe luxury family vehicle, but prefer a wagon style instead of the trend of crossovers, the 2017 Volvo V60 Cross Country is one of the few and best options, and the higher ride vs. regular V60 wagon will be a draw for some.

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Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu.