I just like the way they look, I enjoy the interior design, and the overall driving experience is great. I was recently handed the keys to the updated
XC60, the brand’s midsize
SUV. This one however features something which really impressed me.
Before we get into what specific feature this new
Volvo XC60 has that left me impressed, let me run you through what this
Volvo is all about.
Seen here is the
B5 AWD model and it employs a
2.0-litre turbocharged motor that develops
183kW and maximum torque of
350Nm, with the latter available across a usefully broad rev range. There is more to this motor though, it also benefits from a
48-Volt mild-hybrid system like others in the range. The system also includes a
Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) capable of recuperating braking energy to charge a
48-volt battery. An integrated starter generator uses this recovered energy to support the turbocharged petrol engine.
The interior is equally as attractive as the exterior. Inside you will find a large digital instrument cluster with configurable graphics and a large center screen. Now onto what I think is one of the cleverest features on a modern car, the infotainment system and more specifically the operating software.
You see, many manufacturers spend a large amount of resources on developing their own unique operating software. Let’s be honest though, when last did you play around with all the menus, graphics and such? I, for example have my smartphone connected before I drive off and I make use of Apple CarPlay. I have access to my music apps, navigation that already knows where I want to go most of the time, I have access to messages, calendar entries and more.
Volvo has decided to introduce the company’s latest
Android-powered infotainment system, complete with built-in
Google apps and services. Thanks to an ability to receive over-the-air updates, both the vehicle software and the operating system itself will effectively keep improving over time.
Just like my
Google Home, the vehicle is able to respond to
‘Hey Google’ prompts which makes searching for locations, music and getting weather updates so much easier. In fact, having access to
Google while on the move is just great.
We live in a connected world where every device is able to link up, connect, talk to or interact with the other. Now your car can as well and I’m not sure why it has taken this long to implement.
