When compared with traditional SUVs the Cross Country is far superior on pavement. Its MacPherson strut front suspension works together with a multi-link set up incorporating hydraulic shock absorbers and a cast aluminum subframe in the rear, to produce excellent road manners despite the tall ride height. Four-wheel disc brakes include ABS with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) for quick, controlled stopping. Other safety features include standard side-impact airbags and side curtains.
Power comes via a 2.4-L low-pressure turbo 5-cylinder, driving all four wheels through a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode Volvo calls "Geartronic". While not as spirited as the T5 wagon, its 197-hp is adequate for confident passing maneuvers. Its 210 lb-ft of torque also allows for light towing of up to 1,500 kg (3,307 lb) and heavy loads in the spacious cargo area - 1062 (37.5 cu ft) with the 60/40 split folding seats up and 2025 L (71.5 cu ft) when folded flat. If hauling extra people is necessary, an optional third row jump seat pops up and out of the cargo floor, facing the rear - kids love it.
While practicality is nothing new at Volvo, the brands attractive interior design, high level of premium luxury features and fine quality of materials is much improved over previous generations. The Cross Country benefits from this attention paid to form and function with soft-touch plastics, brushed aluminum trim, authentic wood accents and comfortable leather seats. Most knobs and switches are simple and precise in operation, while controls for the stereo and climate control system are unconventional, in a good way. The audio system uses a rotating dial to access previously selected radio stations, breaking away from traditional push button selectors. Just below, large buttons portray pictograms for the climate controls direction of airflow, while rotating knobs adjust fan speed. With airflow in mind Volvo placed vents in the door pillars directing air to rear occupants - smart.
Power comes via a 2.4-L low-pressure turbo 5-cylinder, driving all four wheels through a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode Volvo calls "Geartronic". While not as spirited as the T5 wagon, its 197-hp is adequate for confident passing maneuvers. Its 210 lb-ft of torque also allows for light towing of up to 1,500 kg (3,307 lb) and heavy loads in the spacious cargo area - 1062 (37.5 cu ft) with the 60/40 split folding seats up and 2025 L (71.5 cu ft) when folded flat. If hauling extra people is necessary, an optional third row jump seat pops up and out of the cargo floor, facing the rear - kids love it.
While practicality is nothing new at Volvo, the brands attractive interior design, high level of premium luxury features and fine quality of materials is much improved over previous generations. The Cross Country benefits from this attention paid to form and function with soft-touch plastics, brushed aluminum trim, authentic wood accents and comfortable leather seats. Most knobs and switches are simple and precise in operation, while controls for the stereo and climate control system are unconventional, in a good way. The audio system uses a rotating dial to access previously selected radio stations, breaking away from traditional push button selectors. Just below, large buttons portray pictograms for the climate controls direction of airflow, while rotating knobs adjust fan speed. With airflow in mind Volvo placed vents in the door pillars directing air to rear occupants - smart.