Volvo XC60 Gains New Safety Features for 2010

Volvo calls the XC60 its safest car ever, employing a system called City Safety to minimize the low-speed accidents common in city traffic by automatic braking. Also targeted at safety is a revised stability-control system with Trailer Stability Assist and Roll Stability Control.

In the drive arena, Volvo touts all-wheel drive with Instant Traction by engaging rear drive and hill descent control. Nine inches of ground clearance clear "terrain that would be impossible for a conventional passenger car" while the 18- and 19-inch wheels imply you shouldn't make a habit of it.

For on-road performance, the XC60 uses those same big wheels for "handling with style," a 3.0-liter, 281-horse turbocharged inline-six, six-speed auto, brakes based on XC90 binders, optimal weight distribution, three-level speed sensitive steering, and adjustable suspension damping later in the year.