LA MOTOR SHOW: Volvo V60 goes Cross Country

Volvo has announced a Cross Country version of the V60 wagon, principally to fill a niche in its product portfolio for North America.

The new V60 variant
will make its global debut in Los Angeles later this month, ahead of its inaugural launch early next year. This reflects the importance of the Cross Country version to Volvo's expansion plans in North America.

But the V60 Cross Country will be a global model also, and it's anticipated to be offered in Australia later in 2015. Volvo Australia is saying little for the moment, with Marketing Communications Director Oliver Peagam telling motoring.com.au: "We’re always keen to get new product, and the V60 Cross Country is certainly a vehicle we are interested in. However it’s too early to comment on local availability of this car."

For North America the raised V60 will be powered by a five-cylinder petrol engine driving through an automatic transmission to a standard all-wheel drive system. Wheels for vehicles sold in the USA and Canada will measure 18 or 19 inches in diameter.

In other markets the V60 Cross Country will also feature Drive-E four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, driving through the front wheels only. Additionally, the existing D4 five-cylinder diesel will sit under the bonnet of all-wheel drive versions set to be introduced to markets, like the UK, where diesel and all-wheel drive is a vital combination.

"We are delighted to add the third true Cross Country model to our product portfolio. The successful combination of dynamic styling and rugged capability places the V60 Cross Country in a class of its own," said Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Product Strategy and Vehicle Line Management at Volvo Cars.

The 'Cross Country' models (V40 and V70) are distinct from Volvo's XC60 and XC90 SUVs, in being cross-over SUVs – or CUVs as the Americans call them – while still providing a higher driving position and easier access thanks to their higher hip point. Yet Volvo claims the V60 Cross Country can be taken off-road.

"With ground clearance increased 65mm compared to the V60, the Cross Country's sturdy construction offers unparalleled control on and off the beaten track, coupled with an enhanced sporty driving experience thanks to torque vectoring technology and corner traction control. The V60 Cross Country really is a getaway car – enabling an adventurous lifestyle in pure rugged form," Kerssemakers was quoted saying in a press release.