All eyes are on Koenigsegg as it blasts past Bugatti’s former 267.9 MPH top speed record.
Over the weekend, Nicklas Lilja — a factory driver for Koenigsegg — set a new record in a customer’s Agera RS. With an average speed of 277.9 mph clocked from two runs on a closed Nevada highway between Las Vegas and Pahrump, the Agera RS is now officially the world’s fastest street-legal production car. Until Saturday’s record speed run, the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport held the production car speed record at 267.9 mph back in 2010.
If you have ever been curious as to what it’s like to zoom more than 200 mph in the cockpit of a hypercar, check out the video below.
Koeniggsegg Agera RS hits 284 mph – VBOX verified
The video shows both speed runs: the first outgoing run reached a top speed of 272 mph, the return leg was even faster at 284 mph. The two speeds were averaged together to get the official time.
After destroying the Bugatti Chiron’s 0-400-0 kph (0-249-0 mph) run by 5.52 seconds on October 1. It was more than plausible that Koenigsegg could crush Bugatti’s top speed record. Using the same supercar that shattered the Chiron’s 0-249-0 mph record, Lilja and founder Christian von Koenigsegg proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that it could be done.
On paper, the Agera RS weighs 1395 kilograms. It uses a twin-turbo 5.0-liter V8 to send 1341 bhp and 944 lb-ft torque to the rear wheels. The Agera RS is lighter by 600 kg and more aerodynamic than the 1500 horsepower AWD Chiron. As a result, the Agera RS has the advantage if you do a little math and analyze the numbers.
Koenigsegg has thrown down the gauntlet. They have crushed two of Bugatti’s speed records. The question now: does the storied Veyron’s successor have another trick up its sleeve to reclaim the speed record?
Hyundai’s entry-level sedan, the Accent, is completely redesigned to offer more features and more efficiency. There is one engine option, two transmissions (6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic), three trim levels, and a healthy dose of style, especially with the top-of-the-line Limited model.
2018 Hyundai Accent
The 2018 Accent is powered by a 1.6L direct-injected four-cylinder engine that is good for 130 hp and 119 lb-ft of torque. You may notice that the power is down 7 horses from the outgoing model. Hyundai says the engine tuning is focused on improved emissions and efficiency. Indeed, the 2018 Accent is EPA rated at 28 MPG city, 38 MPG, and 32 MPG combined. The new entry-level sedan is 7% more fuel efficient, according to Hyundai.
The new Accent is 1.2 inches wider and 0.6 inches longer (with an additional 0.4 inches in wheelbase). The base SE model (which should comprise about 60% of Accent sales) comes with a 5-inch infotainment touchscreen, rear-view camera, power windows/locks, and a 60/40 split folding rear seat. Next, is the mid-grade SEL model that adds more features and 4-wheel disk brakes. Hyundai estimates that 30% of Accent sales will be the SEL models. Finally, there is the Limited model that includes a 7-inch display, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Hyundai’s BlueLink Connected system that offers remote start and even Amazon Alexa and Google Home integration.
2018 Hyundai Accent SE
The Accent competes among the sub-compact segment sedans and hatchbacks: Nissan Versa, Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris iA, Ford Fiesta, and Chevy Sonic. The interior passenger space categorizes the Accent as a compact car (not a sub-compact).
Once behind the wheel of the new Accent, one thing comes through loud and clear. The car feels larger than it is when you are rolling at highway speeds. The feels stable and in-control and the steering is tuned to feel a little heavier than you would expect, which just works. It’s not a sporty car, but it drives and handles with confidence.
[Photo: Hyundai]
The 2018 Accent goes on sale this month (November 2017). Pricing was not available at the time of this writing.
We have the video of the 2018 Accent first drive coming up very soon. In the meantime, here is a first review of the 2018 Kia Rio hatchback, which has a lot in common with the new Accent.
It’s a David vs. Goliath moment on this episode of TFLcar as the Challenger Hellcat and Civic Type R throw down on the track.
For your Sunday delectation, check out the video above for a TFLcar mashup race of epic proportions. In one corner, you have the Dodge Challenger Hellcat: 707 horsepower of supercharged, tire-shredding fury. In the other corner, the Honda Civic Type R, with 306 turbocharged horsepower coursing through its front wheels. On an 1/8th-mile run, you may consider the results a foregone conclusion. And you’d be right – with a 400+ horsepower advantage, the Challenger Hellcat takes the victory Despite that, the run is closer than you might think! The Challenger Hellcat and Civic Type R then compete again on a timed hot lap.
In the grand scheme, these cars are completely different in almost every way. The Challenger is rear-wheel drive, whereas the Civic sends its power to the front. The Challenger has a V8, the Civic an inline-four. Both have forced induction, but the Hellcat is supercharged while the Type R is turbocharged. They have different body styles, and different transmissions. One key similarity, however: both are among the most powerful cars in their respective classes.
It may be an apples to oranges comparison, but the Challenger Hellcat and Civic Type R race has a fun twist. In this video, father and son duke it out for victory on the track. These two cars represent two different automotive philosophies. On one hand, there’s the “ain’t no replacement for displacement!” case. On the other, you have poise, balance, and technology over out-and-out muscle. Both great cars in their own right, and the results are closer than you might think!
Which car do you prefer? Let us know in the comments! Check back to www.tflcar.com and subscribe to The Fast Lane Car on YouTube for the latest news, views, and reviews! And, of course, unorthodox drag races.
This is the Nissan Navara, an overseas sibling to the Nissan Frontier.
The first question comes from a viewer who wants to know if the next Nissan Frontier will ever hit our shores.
Q:Nathan and Roman, do you know anything about the next Nissan Frontier?
Will they even build one? Will it have a terrible CVT? Will it compete against the Toyota Tacoma and Chevy Colorado? Will it have a diesel option like the Colorado? Will it be like the ugly Navara over seas, or will it be unique to this market?
Please let me know when you can.
Sincerely,
Segumi
2012 Nissan Frontier Pro-4x
A: Greetings Segumi!
Lots and lots of rumours about the next Nissan Frontier. The only thing official is that Nissan announced that they will build a new one and it will be built in Canton, Mississippi manufacturing facility alongside the Nissan Titan. You can read that TFLtruck story (here). I am hoping to hear more about it either during the 2018 Chicago Auto Show or the 2019 NAIAS.
Here are the rumors:
A diesel should be part of the next Nissan Frontier; however, it may be more powerful than the one TFLtruck tested a while back.
Expect more options, packages and special editions this time around
Nissan may mimic the Titan’s interior design, which will be a vast improvement over the current Nissan Frontier’s design.
The next Nissan Frontier will have to be competitive out of the box, this means greater towing and payload numbers are rather likely.
Stiffer chassis (frame) and lighter materials should help with its utility and efficiency.
It should look different than the current Nissan Navara. There has been a ton of negative comments coming from consumers regarding the Navara’s design. Nissan takes consumer remarks seriously.
Nissan will aim for a few “best-in-class” titles. Interior space may be one of the area’s Nissan can quickly proclaim as the champion.
Nissan may wait for the North American debut of the Ford Ranger before finalizing the design of the next Nissan Frontier.
Wish I had more, but we are watching Nissan closely to see what happens next, and, we will be on the lookout for prototypes and test mules to his the road soon.
Cheers!
N
Jeep Renegade Latitude
This next question comes from a viewer who wants to buy a simple all wheel drive (AWD) hatchback with a manual transmission. She’s comparing a Jeep Patriot to a Jeep Renegade.
Q: Hi Mr. Nathan. You guys make car stuff super fun to watch. I love your show and I love your group of reviewers!
I like my old 2003 Honda CRV! It’s a stick shift with almost 200,000 miles on it. I love driving stick and I noticed only a few current cars are available with one. I wanted something similar and something fun. But, other than the front wheel drive Honda HR-V, which doesn’t an option for an AWD with a stick, I didn’t like my choices.
I have a friend who owns a 2015 Jeep Patriot with a manual and AWD. She loves it and over the past three years shes been trouble free. So I went to my Jeep dealer (Pat McGrath Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat) and others near Cedar Rapids to see if they had one.
The other dealership could get one for a very cheap price. But then, I saw the Jeep Renegade and fell in love with its looks. It’s absolutely adorable! They do have a base version with a manual and AWD, it’s more expensive than the Patriot by nearly $5,000.
What to do!?!? I would like to keep my loan well under $25,000 and still have a good warranty along with a maintenance plan. I know the Patriot is being phased out and I know about the new Compass too. I don’t like its design.
Which one would you get?
Thanks Nathan!
Connie
A: Hi Connie!
Right off the bat, I would get the Jeep Renegade. It’s a ton of fun using that base turbo engine – it’s very zippy. I would say that the Patriot will, undoubtedly, be less expensive, but it’s a dated design internally and externally. The overall utility and feel of the Renegade is superior to the old Jeep Patriot.
With that being said, please look at the Subaru Forester and Crosstrek, both are available with manual transmissions and both are very well built. Especially in your climate, I would look at these Subarus too.
I hope that helps!
N
The last question comes from someone who wants me to choose between a base Mustang and a base Challenger.
Q: (via Nathanadlen@Twitter) Base Ford Mustang vs Base Dodge Challenger
Which one would you choose for fun at an affordable price?
Akim
A: Hi Akim!
The Mustang is much more fun, especially with the EcoBoost and manual transmission. That’s the one to get for fun, while the Challenger is great for comfort and a little bit of fun. Sadly, Dodge does not offer a manual with their base V6.
I like the overall feel of the Mustang, it’s not that much slower than the GT around a track and it’s terrific on a winding road. The Dodge Challenger’s V6 has pretty good grunt, but the car is too heavy to sling around corners like the Mustang. The Challenger has a lot more space both inside and in the truck. It’s a better car for long highway cruises too.
Still, if I had to choose from any car in this class – I would get the Chevrolet Camaro with the V6 and 6-speed manual. I absolutely love its driving dynamics and that V6 is a keeper.
Thanks for the question!
N
Check out this fun Chevrolet Camaro in the snow video!
Nathan and The Fast Lane Car team are here to answer your (reasonable) questions. Interesting and/or entertaining emails will be posted to this column. If it’s relevant in the automotive universe, there’s a chance we may know something about it. The author’s email address and name will be omitted – leaving your initials or nickname, your preference.
From day one, The Fast Lane Car has made it our policy to answer as many questions and comments as we can. We get thousands of emails and comments and feel that, as part of a tight-knit automotive community, having an open dialogue with you keeps things fresh and exciting.
It’s a question people ask every winter: Do I really need to fit winter tires?
Here in Colorado, the leaves have fallen and autumn will soon give way to the frigid familiarity of winter. In today’s TFLnow video, Andre heads to the Notre Dame Ice Arena in Indiana. Michelin and Tire Rack have set up the “Winter Driving Experience” event to demonstrate the differences between all-seasons and winter tires in icy conditions. But do you need to fit winter tires at all?
Three of the main reasons why people don’t want to fit winter tires to their cars are:
1) All-wheel drive is good enough.
Some people believe all-wheel drive alone may be good enough to get them through the winter. Depending on the climate in which you live, all-wheel drive may indeed be enough. If you’re dealing with wet (not icy) roads and occasional light snow, you can get by with all-seasons. These would include areas that have mild winters, including the southern United States, you can get by with all-wheel drive. However, if you’re consistently dealing with snow, ice, and frigid temperatures, it’s a good idea to get a set of snow tires.
2) All-season tires are good enough.
Determining whether this is the case for you falls along similar lines as all-wheel drive. If you live in consistently mild climates during the winter (California, Florida, etc.), you’re probably good with all-seasons. However, if you find yourself in snow drifts up to your waist and roads that resemble skating rinks, you definitely want to invest in winter tires.
3) Winter tires are inconvenient to put on with the seasons.
If your budget can stretch to new wheels and tires for the winter months, it’s much more convenient to change them out when the leaves bid farewell and green grass turns to winter snow. However, if you’re changing tires on the same set of wheels, it can be a minor inconvenience. But consider this – resting your “summer” tires during the winter, and vice versa, can extend the life of both sets. Also, fitting winter tires when the conditions demand it can prevent costly accidents that otherwise would cost more than fitting winter tires.
The Kia Cadenza fitted with winter tires (background) performed consistently better in acceleration and braking. [Photo: TFLcar]While, on its face, the answer to whether you should fit winter tires depends on where you live, let’s talk about why you should consider a set. If you live in a climate where situations demand better traction, here are some reasons why winter tires are worth the investment:
1) Winter tires are the best safety device you can add to your vehicle.
For the same reasons that you don’t want to use all-seasons on a race track in summer, you may want more suitable tires in winter. Grip is the key to safety in both scenarios. While all-season tires are a good compromise, hence the name, conditions may necessitate meatier winter tires. Previous TFLcar winter tire testing demonstrated that winter tires performed more favorably in icy conditions.
2) Winter tires offer greater safety and mobility when winter conditions are at their worst.
When the snow begins to fall, it may not prove too much a challenge at first. However, the first storms of the season tend to foreshadow a pattern of melting and freezing that turns underlying layers of snow into ice. All-seasons may provide adequate traction on straight snow, but there’s a night-and-day difference when you throw ice into the mix. In addition to enhanced safety by virtue of shorter stopping distances, winter tires also make cornering less scary. While you should always take it easy when the roads get slippery, winter tires will make the terrain easier to navigate.
3) Fitting winter tires can avoid costly accidents and insurance rate hikes.
It’s no secret that winter tires can be a burdensome expense. I mean, you’re paying for tires that you’re going to garage for half the year, right? Well, apart from the rest and use cycle mentioned above, winter tires can help avoid costly accidents. The added safety of winter tires certainly offsets accident costs and insurance claims.
Winter tires improve stopping distances and cornering on slippery surfaces, which will keep you safe when the roads get nasty. [Photo: TFLcar]Supplementary to all the points mentioned above, driving practices can be just as important in winter as the tires you’re using. Per an Ask TFL segment earlier this year, it’s important to allow greater distances to follow other cars and stop in time when roads are slippery. Keeping a slower speed than normal is important for your safety and that of other motorists you encounter.
What have your winter experiences been with all-seasons and winter tires? Which tires do you recommend for winter conditions? Let us, and the TFLcar community, know in the comments below! As always, subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow on YouTube for more news, views, and winter tire reviews!
U.S. auto sales have been strong these past few months. Some manufacturers’ sales are significantly higher than this time last year.
October 2017 turned out to be a good month for automakers, beating analyst’s expectations that the sales figures would shrink year-on-year, according to Bloomberg. Some manufacturers benefited way more than others compared to this time last year. Whether it’s because of new models, revamps, or changes in tastes, some have thrived while others have shrunk over the past 12 months. Here’s a list of TFLcar’s Top 5 Winners and Losers of October 2017. These are the brands which, by year-on-year margins, have grown or shrunk the most compared to a year ago.
Alfa Romeo’s sales have bloomed thanks to the introduction of the Giulia and the Stelvio. [Photo: Alfa Romeo]Sales increase over October 2017: +5,139%
Alfa Romeo is experiencing a sales boom right now thanks to the Giulia and the Stelvio. Before they came along, the only car under Alfa Romeo’s banner in the U.S. was the 4C. While they’re still not a volume brand by any means. They shifted 1,205 units last month. Still, you have to admit that’s way better than the 23 they sold in October 2016.
Top 5 Winners
2) Genesis
Genesis also had a good year, thanks to increased sales of the G80 and G90. [Photo: Genesis]Sales increase over October 2016: +48.7%
This was the first full model year for Genesis, as the G80 and G90 rolled out as 2017 models. Sales have picked up this year, with the G90’s sales increasing four-fold over this time last year, to 378 units in October 2017. The G80 also fared well, with a 27 percent increase in sales (1,408 units in October 2017).
Top 5 Winners
3) Volkswagen
Volkswagen’s YTD sales are up almost 10% over last year, and it’s October sales are up 12% over this time last year. [Photo: Volkswagen]Sales increase over Octobeer 2016: +11.9%
The pace of Volkswagen’s sales have picked up this year over 2016, thanks in no small part to models like the GTI. Sales of this venerable hot hatch are up 14.4% over this time last year. For the brand in total, sales are up 11.9% over this time last year. Interestingly, while the GTI did well, it’s big brother did not. Sales of the Golf R in October 2017 plummeted over the same time last year. Just 31 Golf Rs were sold last month – a 92.2% decrease.
Top 5 Winners
3) Volvo
The S90’s sales have nearly doubled over October 2016. [Photo: TFLcar]Sales increase over October 2016: +10.5%
Volvo’s sales pace for the whole year has slowed a bit over 2016. Nevertheless, it’s October sales are up 10.5%. With a refreshed lineup including the S90, XC90 and the new XC60, the brand has a fresh new face. The S90’s margins fared best of all, increasing by 166% over this time last year.
Top 5 Winners
5) Nissan
Sales of the Maxima increased almost 75% over this time last year. [Photo: TFLcar]Sales increase over October 2016: +10.2%
Nissan’s sales pace has picked up slightly over 2016. They have moved 112,716 units so far this year, compared to 102,312 at this time last year. In October, however, sales are up more than 10% over October 2016. Models like the Maxima have almost doubled their sales. The Maxima’s sales increased 72.5% (to 6,741 units) over October 2016.
Top 5 Losers
1) Smart
Smart’s sales are down by two-thirds over this time last year. [Photo: Smart]Sales decrease over October 2016: -66.5%
It’s perhaps no surprise, but Smart’s sales are down. Way down. In fact, it’s October sales are down 66.5% over this time last year. Smart’s making a shift by discontinuing their gas-powered models and moving to battery-powered cars in 2018. With demand for tiny cars also evaporating, its sales likely won’t rebound anytime soon.
Top 5 Losers
2) Dodge
Dodge’s ancient Journey’s sales have slipped 60% over this time last year. [Photo: Dodge]Sales decrease over October 2016: -41.0%
While Alfa Romeo has seen explosion in sales over the past year, the rest of FCA’s portfolio hasn’t fared so well, as you’ll soon see. Dodge came out of it the worst, with the brand’s October sales shrinking by 41% over the same time last year. The Journey was the worst offender. No surprise, as the car is rather long in the tooth – it’s sales dropped 60% over October 2016. The Charger did well, however, with its sales increasing 19% over this time last year.
Top 5 Losers
3) Fiat
Fiat’s sales have also shrunk over the past year.
Sales decrease over October 2016: -32.5%
Yep, Fiat’s sales have also shrunk over October 2016. It’s cute, cuddly 500 suffered worst of all, seeing its sales drop 37% over this time last year. However, it’s larger compatriot, the 500L, picked up its sales 34%. That being said, such an increase meant Fiat only shifted 159 500Ls in October. The Fiat 124 Spider will hopefully also act as a boon for Fiat’s sales, but it hasn’t been out long enough yet to stem the flow just yet.
Top 5 Losers
4) Mazda
The Mazda3’s sales have suffered over the past year, while Mazda’s crossovers have fared better.
Sales decrease over October 2016: -30.1%
Mazda’s a mixed bag, as far as sales go. Overall, the brand’s sales are down 30.1% over this time last year. That shortfall fell largely on the backs of its cars – namely the Mazda3 (which saw a 35% drop in sales over October 2016) and the Mazda6. Its crossovers, however, have done better. The CX-5 – by far Mazda’s best-selling model – saw its sales increase 15.3% over October 2016.
Top 5 Losers
5) Chrysler
Chrysler suffered a 22% drop in sales compared to October 2016. [Photo: FCA]Sales decrease over October 2016: -22.3%
Another pillar of FCA’s portfolio saw its sales shrink in October 2017. In fact, Chrysler’s sales are down over 22% compared to this time last year. The reason? The 200 was discontinued, as was the Town and Country. On the up side, it’s replacement, the Pacifica, didn’t fare so badly (its sales only shrunk 2% over this time last year).
In this TFLcar video, we determine whether the Toyota RAV4 Adventure can compete with the Jeep Compass Trailhawk.
In the early days of crossovers, most buyers would turn to Jeep if they wanted an affordable, capable off-roader. Now, more crossovers are increasingly off-road worthy in their own right (within reason). For instance, Toyota’s brought out a new version of its RAV4 to square off against the redesigned Compass. Dubbed “Adventure”, this RAV4 sports some features that set it apart from a normal RAV4 to handle the rough stuff. Jeep’s redesigned its entry-level Compass for 2017. It’s meant to act as a replacement for the old Compass and the discontinued Patriot. The Trailhawk version makes it even more off-road worthy by adding a terrain management system and extra ground clearance. So, both are touted as off-road worthy, but which is the better contender? TFLcar’s Roman Mica finds the answer in this comparison review.
First up: Toyota’s RAV4 Adventure
The RAV4 Adventure adds a bit of extra ground clearance and some cladding, but not much else. [Photo: Toyota]Okay, so those of you well-heeled in RAV4 specs will immediately call this out as an apples and oranges comparison. And you’d be right – the Toyota comes into this comparison with one hand tied behind its back. It features the same 176 horsepower, 172 lbs.-ft. torque inline-4 in the standard RAV4. Interior features? Pretty much the same as the normal RAV4. What are the differences, you ask? The Adventure comes with slightly higher ground clearance (up to 6.5 inches), some extra cladding around vulnerable panels, and a matte black stripe on the hood. However, there aren’t any locking differentials and no terrain management system.
Despite those omissions, the RAV4 Adventure handles less difficult trails fairly well, despite momentarily getting stuck. That being said, it’s more of a vehicle for people who want the look of a bona fide off-roader, rather than one that can truly hack it on tough trails.
It’s Competitor: Jeep Compass Trailhawk
The Trailhawk features 2 inches of ground clearance over the RAV4 Adventure, as well as a terrain management system. [Photo: FCA]Obviously, the Jeep has more off-road prowess embedded in its DNA than the RAV4. It has a distinct advantage over the RAV4 Adventure with 8.5 inches of ground clearance (versus 6.5). Additionally, it also has a terrain management system, where you can change its setup depending on what surface you’re on. The Compass doesn’t have locking differentials or other equipment that it’s off-road focused siblings – like the Wrangler – possess. However, it’s still Trail Rated, and it’s able to cope with the rough stuff better than the Toyota.
It’s 2.4-liter MultiAir engine is slightly more powerful than the Toyota, and its mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. It also starts out a little cheaper than the RAV4 Adventure, and it gets slightly better fuel mileage. At the Texas Truck Rodeo, it’s able to hack it on some of the more formidable off-road trails. As a result, it’s probably the better bet should you wish to have a more capable “soft-roader”. If you are looking for a focused off-roader, consider upgrading to a Wrangler or Toyota Tacoma.
Check out TFLcar.com and subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow on YouTube. Come back for the latest news, views and reviews on your most anticipated new models!
The Volvo XC60 T8 Inscription offers up 400 horsepower and a suite of features for $71,590 (as tested).[Photo: Volvo]
Performance
Volvo never has generally concerned itself with horsepower, but it’s offering 400 horses and lots of torque with its new, top-line 2018 XC60 T8 eAWD inscription model. This puts it right up there with such rivals as Porsche.
This four-door hatchback Volvo model, with its almost impossibly long name, lists at $52,900 before options, although lower-horsepower, less well-equipped models start at $41,500. They start with the base Momentum model, go to the sportier R-Design version and top off with the Inscription model, which has a whopping 472 pound/feet of torque and smooth acceleration working with a responsive 8-speed automatic transmission.
However, despite its high horsepower and solid suspension, the emphasis with the XC60 T8 eAWD Inscription is on comfort and utility, not all-out performance.
[Photo: Volvo]
[Photo: Volvo]
[Photo: Volvo]
Comfort and Convenience
The styling is attractive, the quiet interior is upscale with driftwood inlays, leather and tasteful stitching, All cupholders are easy to use and there is a good amount of cabin storage space. However, the start/stop switch on the console is awkward to use. Why not a simple start/stop engine dashboard button?
Doors open wide and front seats are especially supportive, but heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel are optional. The backseat area is comfortably roomy for two adults, and there’s a large fold-down rear center armrest that contains two pull-out cupholders. A power rear hatch opens high to reveal a roomy cargo area. Rear seat backs fold forward to enlarge cargo space, and there’s a small pass-through opening from the cargo area. Under the hatch are two exquisitely shaped horizontal exhaust outlets.
All models have have plenty of punch, but the gas-electric 400-horsepower horsepower model, which can run at low speeds solely on electricity, tops them all. It delivers quite a boot in the back when you hit the gas hard. (Figure 0-60 MPH in 4.9 seconds). It has an added 87-horsepower motor-generator drive the rear wheels. All-wheel drive is standard, a feature that helped keep my test XC60 stable while storming through freeway on- and -off ramps.
Several driving modes can be selected, all of which are displayed on a complicated 9-inch dashboard touchscreen, along with other features. The “Hybrid” setting, which uses the gas-electric combo, is the best for daily use. The “Power” setting give quicker steering, firmer damping and lowers the suspension. There’s also an “Off-Road” mode for rough roads.
About that steering—while fast, it takes getting used to because it’s really a little too quick and provides a somewhat twitchy sensation.
Volvo hasn’t released fuel economy figures yet but I’d guess 26 miles per gallon in the city and a little less on highways. Fuel with at least a 91-octane rating is recommended for the supercharged and turbocharged 2-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine.
All 2018 models have a longer wheelbase, which helps rear-seat room, have trimmer overhangs and aren’t much longer than their predecessor. The XC60 also is a bit wider and several inches lower for a sportier look. An optional $800 air suspension lets one raise the XC60 a little and also lowers it a bit for better aerodynamics during highway cruising.
The ride is smooth with the air suspension, and handling is good. The regenerative braking is controlled by a pedal with a firm feel.
This is an SUV that calls for extra effort to climb into. Once aboard, occupants sit high and a driver has large outside rear-view mirrors for good visibility. Those mirrors have turn-signal indicators and fold inward when the vehicle is parked.
Safety items include collision avoidance and lane-keep features, although others such as adaptive cruise control are optional.
The padded hood glides open on twin struts to reveal an engine compartment covered by a large plastic cover that simple says “Volvo.”
TFLcar’s TAKE: The XC60 has been Volvo’s best-selling model since 2009, and the 2018 model is by far the best one so far. Lots of tempting options, including the air suspension, caused the list prices my test XC60 T8 E-AWD Inscription to total $71,590 with a freight charge.
The 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid hatchback stakes a claim as one of the most efficient and practical cars for the money — but just how good is it on a 1,200-mile road trip?
In this week’s Ask Nathan:
Comparing the 2025 Mazda CX-70 vs Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
What happened to my 1997 Ford Expedition?
This week's first...
