Volvo V60 Cross Country in Brief
The Volvo V60 Cross Country is a raised, all-wheel-drive version of the V60 wagon. It is designed for buyers who want the drivability and cargo space of a wagon but need more ground clearance than a standard passenger car offers. In practice, it serves as an alternative to an SUV without the high body line and weight that come with one. The V60 Cross Country is also the last remaining wagon model in Volvo's lineup following the discontinuation of the larger V90 model in 2025.
The Cross Country is not a trim package but its own distinct model. The suspension has been raised and retuned, underbody protection plates have been added, and all-wheel drive is standard. The second-generation model offers approximately 210 millimeters of ground clearance, just a few millimeters less than the Volvo XC60 SUV.
The model is manufactured in Sweden at Volvo's Torslanda plant in Gothenburg. Some V60 production has also taken place at the Ghent plant in Belgium.
Who Is the V60 Cross Country For?
The V60 Cross Country is a great fit for you if:
- You drive on rough roads: The raised ground clearance and underbody protection plates make cabin roads, gravel roads, and unplowed driveways significantly more manageable than in a standard wagon.
- You don't want an SUV: The Cross Country offers nearly the same ground clearance as the XC60, but with a lower center of gravity, a lighter driving feel, and lower fuel consumption.
- You need all-wheel drive year-round: AWD is standard on second-generation models and doesn't need to be sought out separately on the options list.
- You regularly haul cargo: The wagon body and long loading opening work better than a sedan or hatchback when you're carrying skis, a stroller, or a dog crate.
- You value Volvo's safety and seating: Volvo's seats and comprehensive standard safety equipment are among the model's best-known strengths on long trips.
If you prefer a higher seating position and an SUV body style, the XC60 is likely the better fit. If you don't need the extra ground clearance, the standard Volvo V60 is a more affordable and slightly more fuel-efficient option.
Read more about the model on the tabs below!
Technology and Powertrains
The V60 Cross Country has been available with diesel and gasoline engines, and in newer model years both have been electrified with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. All second-generation models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
No plug-in Recharge hybrid has been sold for the Cross Country, although one is available for the standard V60 (T6 and T8 Recharge). If you're looking for a plug-in Volvo wagon, it's worth turning your attention to the standard V60 or the XC60 SUV.
Diesel Engines
Diesel has been a popular powertrain choice in the V60 Cross Country, and diesel models are widely available on the used market. The D3 is a more modest diesel option with 150 horsepower. The D4 is the most popular engine, and its specifications vary depending on the generation and drivetrain.
In the first generation, the D4 AWD used a 2.4-liter five-cylinder diesel producing 190 horsepower and 440 newton-meters of torque. Front-wheel-drive D4 models used a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel with 190 horsepower and 400 newton-meters of torque. The second-generation D4 AWD is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel with 190 horsepower and 400 newton-meters of torque.
Gasoline Engines
Gasoline versions are less common than diesels on the used market, but they exist in both generations. The T5 is the best-known gasoline designation for the Cross Country. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. In the first generation, the T5 was front-wheel drive; in the second generation, it became all-wheel drive with an output of 250 horsepower.
From 2020 onward, the T5 gave way to the B5 mild hybrid. Power remained at the same level, but a 48-volt mild hybrid system was added. In practice, this means that the same power output is available under both the T5 and B5 designations, depending on the model year.
Mild Hybrids B4 and B5
Around 2020, B4 and B5 mild hybrid versions began entering the lineup. The letter B does not indicate the fuel type, but rather that the engine is paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The number indicates the power level. Among V60 Cross Country units sold in Finland, the most common are:
- B4 AWD D-MHEV, diesel mild hybrid, approximately 197 horsepower
- B5 AWD MHEV, gasoline mild hybrid, approximately 250 horsepower
The mild hybrid is not plug-in. The system recovers energy during braking and assists the engine during acceleration. The manufacturer's claimed fuel savings are around ten percent, and real-world testing suggests this is realistic. In everyday driving, the mild hybrid is barely noticeable — which is exactly the point.
All-Wheel Drive
The all-wheel drive system uses an electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch that transfers power to the rear axle as needed. Under normal conditions, the car is effectively front-wheel drive, which helps keep fuel consumption in check. When traction is lost, the system responds quickly.
The second-generation Cross Country is always all-wheel drive. The first generation was also available in front-wheel-drive versions, so when buying a used 2015–2018 model, it's worth checking the drivetrain in the listing.
Dimensions and Cargo Space
The typical dimensions of the second-generation V60 Cross Country are approximately 4,785 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width without mirrors, and around 1,500 mm in height. The wheelbase is approximately 2,875 mm.
Cargo space is approximately 519 liters, and folding down the rear seatbacks increases it significantly. The wagon body's advantage shows in the loading opening: it is taller and more rectangular than in a sedan, and the cargo floor is flat.
The first-generation model is smaller, measuring approximately 4,640 mm in length with a cargo volume of around 430 liters.
Towing capacity is strong in both generations: the braked trailer weight is typically 1,800–2,000 kilograms depending on the version. This clearly sets the V60 Cross Country apart from many electric vehicles and hybrids, where towing capacity is limited or nonexistent.
Generations
First Generation (2015–2018)
The first V60 Cross Country was built on the P3 platform — the same basic architecture as the V60 and XC70 of that era. It was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 2014 and arrived in Finland in the summer of 2015.
Ground clearance is approximately 201 millimeters. The engine lineup included D3 and D4 diesels as well as the T5 gasoline engine. All-wheel drive was initially available only with the 2.4-liter five-cylinder D4, making it the most sought-after version on the used market.
Trim levels are Kinetic, Momentum, and Summum.
Second Generation (2019–)
The second generation is built on Volvo's SPA platform and is a more modern car in every respect: larger, quieter, and more comprehensively equipped. Ground clearance increased to approximately 210 millimeters, and all-wheel drive became standard. At launch, the lineup included the D4 AWD and T5 AWD. From 2020 onward, the mild hybrids B4 and B5 joined the range, replacing the earlier designations. In 2022, the model received an update that refreshed styling details and the infotainment system.
Trim levels vary across model years. Early models featured Momentum and Inscription, while later ones offer Core, Plus, and Ultimate. In addition, the used market includes fleet-spec models badged as Business, Business Edition, and Pro.
Driving Experience and Features
The Cross Country's driving feel is calm and composed. The raised ride height doesn't make the car feel floaty, because the suspension has been tuned to match the increased height. The softer suspension is especially noticeable on rough roads: you don't need to slow down for potholes the same way you would in a regular wagon.
On the highway, the car is quiet and effortless. The steering is light and predictable, but it doesn't offer much road feel. The Cross Country is not a sporty car, nor does it try to be.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Volvo's standard safety equipment is comprehensive, even in older models. Second-generation models typically come standard with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, collision warning, and road sign recognition.
Common optional features include adaptive cruise control, Pilot Assist, blind spot monitoring (BLIS), a 360-degree camera, and parking sensors.
Features
Used V60 Cross Country models frequently come equipped with:
- Leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable and heated front seats, often with memory function
- Heated steering wheel and windshield
- Fuel-operated auxiliary heater (Webasto)
- Trailer hitch
- Digital instrument cluster
- Panoramic sunroof
- Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins audio system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Power tailgate
The auxiliary heater and trailer hitch are extremely common on models sold in Finland, and they affect both usability and resale value.
Ground Clearance and Raised Chassis
Ground clearance is the entire reason the Cross Country exists, and it's also the single most common thing people look for in this model.
The second-generation V60 Cross Country has approximately 210 millimeters of ground clearance, compared to around 140 millimeters in the standard V60. That's a difference of nearly seven centimeters. For reference, the XC60 SUV has approximately 216 millimeters of ground clearance — essentially the same.
The first-generation model (2015–2018) had approximately 201 millimeters of ground clearance, which was 65 millimeters more than the equivalent V60.
The raised ride height isn't just a lifted suspension. The Cross Country also includes:
- Separately tuned, softer suspension
- Underbody skid plates at the front and rear
- Protective cladding on the sill covers and wheel arch edges
- Off Road drive mode and hill descent control
Off Road mode softens the throttle response and activates hill descent control. In diagonal wheel lift situations, the brakes transfer power to the wheels with traction. That said, this is not an off-road vehicle — it's a touring car that won't get stuck in a slush bank or on a rutted cabin road.
Competitors and Comparison
The V60 Cross Country competes on two fronts simultaneously: against raised station wagons and compact premium SUVs.
Comparison Within the Volvo Lineup
Smaller Volvos
- Volvo V40 Cross Country: A noticeably smaller and more city-oriented option. Suits a buyer who likes the Cross Country concept but doesn't need the V60's cargo space.
- Volvo XC40: A compact SUV with a higher driving position. Practical in the city, but the cargo space is smaller than a station wagon.
Larger Volvos
- Volvo V90 Cross Country: The same idea in a larger package. The V90 Cross Country is nearly 6 inches longer and offers significantly more space, cargo capacity, and ride comfort. The price point is higher even in the used market.
- Volvo XC60: The closest alternative in Volvo's lineup. Ground clearance is practically the same, but the XC60 has a higher driving position and an SUV body. The V60 Cross Country feels lighter to drive and is generally more fuel-efficient.
- Volvo XC70: The predecessor to the Cross Country concept and a familiar classic for many. An older model, but the same idea: a raised station wagon with all-wheel drive.
Comparison With Competitors
- Audi A4 Allroad: The most direct competitor. Quattro all-wheel drive, a quality interior, and excellent driving dynamics. Volvo stands out with its seats and safety reputation, while Audi offers more refined finishing.
- Volkswagen Passat Alltrack: The most practical and often the most affordable option in this group. Cargo space is excellent and spare parts are readily available. The premium feel is more modest than Volvo or Audi.
- Subaru Outback: The most capable off-road option. The symmetrical all-wheel drive is permanent, and the Outback performs exceptionally well on rough roads. Interior materials and sound insulation don't quite match Volvo's level.
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class All-Terrain: A newer entry in the same concept. Luxurious interior and modern technology, but rarer on the used market and priced higher.
- Skoda Octavia Scout: A more affordable option in a smaller size. Good value for money, but the size and equipment level fall short of the V60 Cross Country.
What Do These Models Have in Common?
All of them are raised station wagons with all-wheel drive, targeting the same type of buyer: someone who needs ground clearance and traction but doesn't want the high roofline of an SUV. They all offer more cargo space and a lower center of gravity than a comparably priced SUV.
The differences come down to the all-wheel drive system implementation, powertrain options, interior quality, and maintenance costs.
Summary
The Volvo V60 Cross Country is a well-rounded choice for a buyer who wants the practicality of a station wagon and the ground clearance of an SUV in one vehicle. Its strengths include approximately 8.3 inches of ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, Volvo's seats and safety features, and strong towing capacity.
It's especially well suited for a buyer who drives in varying conditions but values a car-like driving feel. The most important decision comes down to generation and powertrain: 2015–2018 models offer the most affordable entry point, the generation introduced in 2019 is more modern and always comes with all-wheel drive, and the mild hybrids B4 and B5 are the newest option.
You can conveniently browse Saka's entire inventory on the used cars page, where you can see all available vehicles and easily compare your options. You'll also find plenty of useful information about cars on our homepage.
Frequently Asked Questions – Volvo V60 Cross Country
What is the ground clearance of the V60 Cross Country?
The second-generation model (2019 onward) has approximately 210 millimeters of ground clearance. The first-generation model (2015–2018) has approximately 201 millimeters. For comparison, the standard V60 has around 140 millimeters and the XC60 SUV has around 216 millimeters. The Cross Country therefore offers virtually the same ground clearance as the XC60, but with a lower body.
Is the V60 Cross Country always all-wheel drive?
Second-generation models (2019 onward) are always all-wheel drive. The first generation was also available in front-wheel-drive versions, so for 2015–2018 model years, it's worth checking the drivetrain in the listing. All-wheel drive is implemented via an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch that transfers power to the rear axle as needed.
Is the V60 Cross Country available as a plug-in hybrid?
No. The Cross Country has never been sold as a plug-in hybrid. Newer model years include mild hybrid variants B4 and B5, but these cannot be charged from an outlet. If you're looking for a plug-in hybrid Volvo wagon, that means the standard V60 (T6 or T8 Recharge) or the XC60 SUV.
What is the difference between the designations D4, B4, and B5?
D4 is a diesel engine without a mild hybrid system. In the first generation, the designation referred to a 2.4-liter five-cylinder in all-wheel-drive versions and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder in front-wheel-drive versions, both producing 190 horsepower. In the second generation, D4 is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, also rated at 190 horsepower.
The letter B always indicates a 48-volt mild hybrid system, and the designation was introduced in 2020. It does not indicate the fuel type: in Volvo's lineup, both B4 and B5 have been available in gasoline and diesel. Among V60 Cross Country units sold in Finland, the most common are the B4 diesel (approximately 197 hp) and the B5 gasoline (approximately 250 hp). It's worth verifying the fuel type in the listing or on the vehicle registration certificate.
Does the V60 Cross Country have a timing belt or a timing chain?
A timing belt. This surprises many people, as modern engines are often assumed to use a chain. The belt is found in both the second-generation 2.0-liter Drive-E engines and the first-generation 2.4-liter five-cylinder diesel.
It's a good idea to check the replacement interval for your specific model, as Volvo has shortened it over time. When buying a used V60 Cross Country, it's worth reviewing the timing belt replacement history in the service records, especially if the vehicle has been driven more than 130,000 kilometers. Vehicles in Sakka's inventory are inspected upon arrival, so the service status of each individual car is verified in advance.
What should I look out for when buying a used V60 Cross Country?
The most important things to check are the service history, the timing belt replacement date, and automatic transmission fluid changes. Volvo's Aisin automatic transmission is mechanically durable, but it benefits from regular fluid changes, which the service schedule does not always explicitly specify. The same applies to the all-wheel-drive system fluid.
Other things worth noting are the condition of the suspension, the brakes, and the operation of the auxiliary heater. Vehicles in Sakka's inventory are inspected upon arrival.
Where is the V60 Cross Country manufactured?
The V60 Cross Country is manufactured in Sweden, at Volvo's Torslanda plant in Gothenburg. Some V60 lineup production has also taken place at Volvo's Ghent plant in Belgium. The model was designed primarily in Gothenburg, even though Volvo has been owned by China's Geely since 2010.
How much can the V60 Cross Country tow?
The braked trailer weight is typically 1,800–2,000 kilograms, depending on the variant and model year. This is a strong figure for the segment and sets the Cross Country apart from many electric and hybrid vehicles where towing capacity is limited or absent altogether. The exact towing capacity should be verified on the individual vehicle's registration certificate.
Should I choose the V60 Cross Country or the XC60?
The decision usually comes down to your preferred driving position and intended use. The XC60 offers a higher seating position and an SUV body, which makes getting in and out easier. The V60 Cross Country offers virtually the same ground clearance, but with a lower center of gravity, a lighter driving feel, a longer cargo area, and typically more moderate fuel consumption. If you don't need a high seating position, the Cross Country is often the more practical choice.
Easy car deals at Saka!
Saka is Finland's largest used car dealership, and our operations are based on strict quality control. We screen the used car inventory to select only the best vehicles and ensure that every car we sell meets our promises.
- Flexible car financing: We offer pre-negotiated financing that allows you to pay for your car in easy monthly installments – if needed, even without a down payment.
- Trading in your car: Sell us your old car! We buy cars less than 10 years old with under 225,000 km on the odometer, and we accept them as trade-ins when you upgrade to a newer car.
- Home delivery: We deliver your dream car to Saka dealerships or directly to your doorstep anywhere in Finland. Read more about delivery.
Interested in a V60 Cross Country?
Get in touch!Contact one of our experts and find the perfect V60 Cross Country for you.
Found 0 cars