The Volvo XC60 has long been celebrated for its blend of Scandinavian design, safety innovation, and comfortable driving dynamics. For the 2014 model year, Volvo amplified the appeal of its award-winning compact premium utility, especially the dynamic Volvo Xc60 T6 variant, with a comprehensive refresh that touched upon styling, interior refinement, and cutting-edge technology. As an expert in automotive repair and performance, let’s dive deep into what makes the 2014 Volvo XC60 T6 a standout choice in its class, focusing on its performance enhancements, luxurious features, and overall value proposition.
The most immediately noticeable updates for the 2014 XC60 range were external. Volvo’s design team sculpted a fresh face for the XC60, starting from the windshield forward. The Volvo XC60 T6 benefited handsomely from these changes, projecting a more assertive and wider stance on the road. A newly designed hood, front fenders, and fascia contribute to this bolder appearance. The redesigned headlights, flanking a prominent new grille that proudly displays the larger Volvo Ironmark, give the vehicle a modern and sophisticated look. Further enhancing the front-end aesthetics are a new lower front spoiler with bright trim and vertically mounted LED daytime running lights. At the rear, new skid plate décor and integrated exhaust pipe designs add a touch of rugged elegance. For the Volvo XC60 T6, especially in the R-Design trim, the visual upgrades were even more impactful, with unique styling cues that set it apart.
The interior of the 2014 Volvo XC60 T6 received significant attention, elevating the cabin’s luxury and user experience. Volvo introduced new design elements, premium materials, and added convenience features across the XC60 lineup. The Volvo XC60 T6 models, especially the Premier Plus and Platinum trims, benefited from a new standard adaptive digital display instrument cluster. This TFT (Thin Film Transistor) technology allowed drivers to personalize their driving information with three distinct themes: Elegance, Eco, and Performance.
- Elegance: Presents a classic analog speedometer with supplementary displays for essential vehicle information.
- Eco: Adopts a green background and incorporates an Eco meter to promote fuel-efficient driving habits.
- Performance: Shifts to a dynamic red background and replaces the speedometer with a tachometer, digitally displaying speed and adding a power meter to show real-time power usage.
These customizable instrument displays in the Volvo XC60 T6 not only enhanced the modern feel of the interior but also provided drivers with information tailored to their driving style and preferences. Beyond the digital cluster, all Volvo XC60 T6 models received a new 3-spoke steering wheel and a refined shift knob with illuminated symbols for better visibility in low-light conditions.
Performance is where the Volvo XC60 T6 truly shines. Under the hood lies a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that delivers a robust 300 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque in the standard T6 AWD configuration. For enthusiasts seeking even more exhilaration, the Volvo XC60 T6 R-Design pushes the boundaries further, boasting 325 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque from the same engine, meticulously tuned for enhanced responsiveness.
A significant performance upgrade for the Volvo XC60 T6 AWD and R-Design models in 2014 was the introduction of Advanced Quick Shift technology. This feature, standard on both models, optimizes gear change speed when Sport Mode is engaged or when using the newly added steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. These paddle shifters, a first for Volvo crossovers, provide drivers with manual gear control while keeping both hands firmly on the wheel. Advanced Quick Shift software mapping reduces gear change times by 20-30 percent for third to sixth gears and an impressive 50 percent quicker for first to second gear. This translates to a noticeable improvement in acceleration, dropping the 0-60 mph sprint time to 6.5 seconds from the previous 6.9 seconds for the Volvo XC60 T6 AWD.
The R-Design variant of the Volvo XC60 T6 further amplifies the driving experience with a sport-tuned chassis. Stronger damping and a more direct steering gear in the R-Design contribute to more agile handling, improved vehicle feedback, and a more connected feel to the road. Visually, the R-Design distinguishes itself with unique 20-inch Ixion II alloy wheels, color-matched lower body moldings, and a metallic-themed interior featuring aluminum inserts. Signature R-Design elements like silk metal finish mirror housings, trim moldings, skid plates, twin chrome tailpipes, and R-Design logos embossed on the seats and grille complete the sporty aesthetic.
Volvo’s commitment to safety is paramount, and the 2014 Volvo XC60 T6 is no exception. Building on its reputation as a safety leader, Volvo equipped the XC60 with a suite of advanced safety technologies. Standard Corner Traction Control (CTC) by torque vectoring, derived from the S60 sedan, enhances handling on winding roads and slippery surfaces. By applying braking force to the inner driven wheel and transferring more power to the outer wheel during cornering, CTC helps maintain tighter lines and reduces understeer, providing drivers with enhanced control and confidence.
The optional Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) Package for the Volvo XC60 T6 included BLIS, front and rear park assist, Cross Traffic Alert (CTA), and Lane Change Merge Aid (LCMA). The upgraded BLIS system uses radar technology to detect vehicles at a greater distance, while CTA warns drivers of approaching traffic when reversing. The Technology Package further bolstered safety with Cyclist Detection added to Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake, Active High Beam, Road Sign Information (RSI), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Queue Assist, Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake (CWAB), Distance Alert (DA), Driver Alert Control (DAC), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). Notably, the XC60 was the pioneer of City Safety technology, designed to prevent or mitigate low-speed collisions, and this feature remained a standard safety hallmark in the 2014 Volvo XC60 T6.
In conclusion, the 2014 refresh solidified the Volvo XC60 T6 as a compelling choice in the luxury compact SUV segment. Its enhanced styling, refined interior with customizable digital displays, potent turbocharged engine options, and advanced safety features, especially when considering the performance-oriented R-Design, offered a well-rounded and sophisticated package. For those seeking Scandinavian luxury blended with dynamic performance and Volvo’s renowned safety pedigree, the Volvo XC60 T6 from 2014 remains a relevant and attractive option in the used car market today. Its combination of power, technology, and elegant design makes it a standout vehicle that continues to impress.
