Is Sh. 2.5 million Volvo XC60 worth buying in Kenya?

Retailing for Sh. 2.4 Million to Sh. 2.6 Million ( Depending on mileage, grade and trim level) the Volvo XC60  is an alternative to the Harrier, Vanguard, Outlander. It is priced a bit higher above the CX5 and the Nissan Xtrail but still remains to be in the same class.

The pros of this car:

1. It is available in a wide array of trim levels. On this article we will be specific to the trim levels available for the 2013-2014.
2. a) T5-  Comes with a 2000cc engine inline 4 Turbo Charged engine 2WD.
3. b) T5 AWD- Comes with a 2000cc inline 4 Turbo charged engine with All Wheel Drive

c)3.2 AWD-  Comes with an inline 6 3200cc Naturally Aspirated engine with All Wheel Drive.

d)T6 AWD- Comes with a 3000cc Inline 6 turbo charged engine with All Wheel Drive.

1. e) Top of the trim for the 2013 is the T6 AWD R-Design that also comes with a 3000cc inline 6 Turbo charged  motor with an all wheel drivetrain and added extras in both interior and exterior.

The XC60 just like any other Volvo has some very impressive safety ratings. Typical Volvo DNA, simple yet refined looks, the exterior is a bit conservative; the interior; very spacious but blended with a touch of luxury. The power output is very impressive; the handling is not bad for a cross-over; In fact, I recently drove one and its handling is so good that it cannot compare to that of a Vanguard or a CX-5. It’s in the Subaru Forester territory.

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The Volvo XC60 gives an awesome driving experience courtesy of the 6 speed Automatic gearbox.

The Cons of this car:

1. Significant understeer- Although only driving enthusiasts would notice this; point A to Point B drivers cannot even identify understeer.
2. Gear hunting: When you are driving on a steep ascend, you might notice the gearbox trying to hunt for the right gear with the optimum power for the driving demands on that particular road condition. However this is typical of any automatic transmission.( Again only keen drivers will notice this)
3. Parts might be a bit of a headache, but with the internet opening up the world, importing parts is simple.

However routine maintenance parts are available.

Technical Support:

Volvos are very reliable cars; but they need professional technical assistance; technicians familiar with Volvo Tech. Even for basic routine maintenance.

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