Michael Salsman Not the new V60. It’s considerably larger inside than the old V60. While I agree that it’s still smaller than the Outback, it is considerably larger than the Crosstrek. The V90 is definitely more of an Outback competitor.
Volvo invented the 3-point seat-belt. In addition, they gave the patent away for free. If the seat-belt hug you like that, it's the Volvos way to say it loves you.
I test drove both and bought the V60 CC. I do occasional light off road ... BLM roads graded for 8” of clearance, dirt roads for fishing access, etc. so either vehicle would have worked. The Volvo is much better looking, is way more luxurious, and more fun to drive. It’s also a lower roofline, so car topping my fishing yak is an easier lift. Very happy with my CC.
The Volvo couldn't do the last climb because the AWD system was cutting power to prevent damage to the transmission. It had nothing to do with tires or grip. You can clearly see on the video that it stopped once 2 wheels were in the air diagonally and it didn't spin the 2 wheels that had traction. These AWD systems are made mainly for on-road safety and gravel road cornering. That's my opinion, I enjoyed your video!
@@DidioFRodriguezLee I wouldn't be so sure. TFL tested Outback in a similar situation and it behaved similarly. With two diagonal wheels in the air and gas pedal to the floor it cut power and wasn't able to transfer enough torque to the other two wheels to make it over the obstacle. These brake based traction control systems are no replacement for locking diffs.
@@SlavaLeonov I've seen plenty of Forester videos in that situation and they get stuck. There's quite a religion with Subarus but they are nothing more than open differential electronic driven traction cars.
The Subaru fills a different spot in the market. Doubt you would see this off road even if it is as capable as the Outback. The Volvo is luxurious and the Subaru is utilitarian.
Those prices in Europe are not so different especially when you look at the 2 year old cars. Volvo has so much more quality and comfort and I really hate the CVT gearbox on Toyotas and Subarus. So even I had 2 Subarus before I'm really not sure if the next car will be a Subie.
I've always been a Volvo fan, so my choice is easy. Wow what a car our Swedish neighbors have made this time, but also for decades from the very beginning.
3:50 I did buy B&W audio in both my S90 Inscription and my XC60 Inscription and haven't regret it one second. On the next Volvo I buy, it'll be the first option I'll add ;)
I wouldnt mind going a little off road with a Subaru. With the Volvo I would feel so horrible. Haha. It's such a nice looking vehicle where as a Subaru would be my workhorse.
Yeah, but you can get the V60 CC without all those options for about $45k, probably less with dealer discounts (and there's almost always a $2k discount for already-Volvo owners), so the price difference isn't necessarily that great. Is the Volvo worth $7k-$8k more than the Subaru? Yeah, because of the quality of the interior. So it's more a question of the customer's finances. If the idea is to go more off paved roads, the Subaru is probably better; on paved roads, the Volvo wins by a huge margin. If I had to do a lot of off-pavement driving with mud, water, rocks, etc., I'd probably get the Subaru; otherwise, the Volvo.
After negotiating my 2020 V60 CC came down to $45,000. It has the heated back seats and steering wheel, the Advanced package which add Adaptive Cruise Control, Pilot Assist, Heads Up display to name a few. It has the big skylight sunroof and a few other nice perks. So its not so out of control. To lease for 3 years with $3500 total down, 10k miles a year, tax included comes to $496/month. Free maintenance for 3 years so no extras to spend. $15.00 more for next mileage increase or down for less mileage.
cba tiau Thank you! And Audi wanted so much for their crossovers that had half the features, and sadly didn’t drive nearly as nice as the CC unless i stuck with a sedan or A5. I really love my new baby! Thanks and hope you get what you want too.
Thanks for the test - impressive performance for a Volvo CC. I drive it’s big brother the V90 CC (with a D5 diesel) but haven’t put it through anything similar as of yet. We do get some challenging winters here in Volvos home country so glad to have the off road abilities and the amazing standard suspension comfort. Also says something how the V90CC made it to the top in the police car ranking over here, not only love for the household brand..
Thank you for doing the off-road testing on vehicles. Those mountain roads are similar to what I encounter in CA mountains and knowing how a vehicle responds is important to me. Great reviews!
V60 cc has a more attractive appearance, great design, but Outback is more practical having an unique charisma . It's the best friend to rely on. Hello from Russia!)
When you do your traction test it would be awesome if you put white tape on the wheels just one piece from center out so we can clock the tire rotations easily: 5:30
Thanks so much for doing this video! It was great to see the car in a true off road test as I am considering purchase of this Volvo as well as Subaru. Both are great cars. The choice really comes down to affordability for the buyer. Personally I am leaning toward the Volvo.
affordability....hmmm, You might consider the price of spare parts, cost of service and replacement of said parts between the two makes of cars. In Australia, Subaru is well stocked and spares are not an issue. Not so sure about the availability of Volvo parts and whether I'd take it to anyone else but a dealer after the five year warranty is finished. Dealers are known rip-off merchants here. Go figure.
The seatbelt pulling you into the seat right before you crash greatly prevents body injuries caused by the traditional seatbelt. It is necessary and should be standard in all vehicles.
Blaž Bohinc but only the Volvo it happens when you are not crashing! Pre tensioners are standard sizes n most cars but the Volvo ones are far too sensitive. My hands were actually pulled off the steering wheel when I went over a jump in the road and the car went light.
We have owned five Volvo's in the past . They are the best cars ever. All were super reliable and reasonable to maintain. Now we own two Outbacks. One with the 3.6R. Amazing car . I get why Subi drivers love their cars. And I get why Volvo owners love their cars. The Subi is an excellent utilitarian car. The Volvo is the best road trip car ever. Cant go wrong with either one.
I've love the look and design of the cross country Volvo including the previous generation. I own an Outback but would probably buy a Volvo if I could afford it. Great video. Love your channel
I bought a used 2015 Volvo V60 T5 AWD just coming off lease as a cheaper way to almost the same equipment, and with only 23,500 km on it. That is 4 years of depreciation but only 1 year equivalent use. Look for them.
As it turns out I own a 2020 Volvo V 60 cross country exactly like the one in the video, except without the $4000 Soundsystem. It cost nowhere near $56,000. I was considering the Subaru, but the Volvo is a much nicer car. And while I don’t do any rock crawling, it’s nice to see how capable it is. Thanks.
Yes, I have also compared Subaru wagons to Volvo CC wagons seriously when looking to purchase, and I chose the Volvo CC twice; when it came up to choosing between a Subaru and a Toyota Highlander, we ended up going with the Highlander...
Volvo has very good discounting on older models of +$10,000. Not sure if they would discount a new V60 like that or if the leasing is that good of a deal unless you had Volvo's in the past. We chose the Regal TourX which can be had for middle US$20's.
So when i was shopping for a used wagon in my area. I had 2 options ome up for sale. A 2015 Subaru Outback 3.6 and a 2017 Volvo V60CC. I decided the Volvo was the better car based on comfort and mpg. My Volvo will be getting a set of 215/70R16 General Grabber APT or BFGoodridge KO2s due to me turning it in to a overlanding vehicle
Same - I was cross-shopping 8-10 year old AWD wagons and it turns out Subarus are more expensive that Volvos in that vintage! The quality, however, is a huge difference, so now I have a XC70 which we use as a mini-overlanding vehicle. Works great off road and we mostly run across pickups, who are typically shocked to see a Volvo on the trail...
Love what volvo is doing with their lineup between the exterior updates and the lush interior these cars have come a long way. Killer video, keep up the good work.
Being a Swede, I'm not entirely unbiased 😉 I would the V60CC in a heart-beat. With that said, I have great respect for Japanese cars. I've owned a Honda S2000, omg, what a car...
Being a Dane, my choice too would be easy. Only problem is can’t really justify yet another purchase. Currently got XC90 and XC60. They are outstanding and sooo gorgeous. You really do get the feeling that the cars love you with those responsive seatbelts. 😉
I watched your channel first time, I liked!. Especially your shootings are great. First interior shots were like a commercial, and some scenes in the forest was like a walpaper with that very crisp 4k. Also of course in terms of review, I liked your detailed review. Thanks.
Great review. The Volvo feels like a better package. I'm sure the Subie would edge it a little bit in terms of off-roading but such occasions are very rare to me. And the CVT in the Subie is also such a deal-breaker.
I shopped the Outback against the last gen V60CC model and getting the Subaru to the level of luxury I wanted wasn't possible. The Outback was within spitting distance price wise after checking all the boxes so I went with a Volvo. The current model just raises the luxury bar even higher. I ended up driving the XC60 and went with it though. I know your comparing "estates" here, but if you live in the drivers seat a lot the price difference is justified.
I have an S90 and am absolutely in love with Volvo. I have wondered about the cross country for its capabilities. Though I don’t drive anywhere that needs true off road abilities, weather and road conditions can deteriorate quickly and awd does come in handy. Thanks for this.
I'd take the Subaru for this kind of driving (I have one and have done this kind of driving). That being said, I'm planning on getting the Volvo anyway and giving my Outback to my college age son. It really is a work horse and super safe. Great review, but I would have liked to have seen a more point by point comparison of the two on the mountain.
I love how commenters only hear what they want to hear. It starts at just over $45k ---- but everyone quotes the $56k price! No one buys a Subaru for its luxury. Subaru's are work horses and thats it. They are good at it. The Volvo is for people who want that little 'extra' in a car and don't spend all their time off road. The V60 XC is one good looking car too :-)
Lee people quote $57k because sadly with modern Volvos you have to tick all the options boxes to get the safety gear that comes standard on the Subaru and used to come standard on Volvos. I LOVE Volvo and drive one currently but my next ride will be a 2020 Subaru Outback Limited with all the safety gear and capabilities of the Volvo for $25k less. Oh, and btw Subaru also holds its value better, is cheaper to maintain, runs on regular unleaded, and crash tests beautifully. The only way to buy the Volvo (unless you have money to burn) is to buy it 2 years old after it’s taken a $25k hit in depreciation.
@@erikhord458 Yeah, I guess different markets have different view points. I am UK based (and own a few Volvos). We see Subaru different over hear. Very capable but ultimately not very desirable.Can't remember the last time I saw an Outback on the road whereas almost every third car in the area I live is a Volvo. Therefore far more places to service them and no local Subaru dealership. Also, UK Subarus look awful with no class. However, we all know they will get across a field better than a Volvo. No UK snow has ever stopped our XC90 or S60. All UK petrol cars run on the same Petrol so thats not a comparison here either. The biggest problem for Subaru over here is rust....they have very poor paintwork quality and rust protection against Volvo at it shows. Volvo's last longer bodywork wise. But, you are right...Volvo have got expensive but make a superb second hand buy. Subaru have come on a long way...before you buy one though....sit in the new V60 and feel the atmosphere and superb seats ;-) Anyway, comparison over, lol.
@@leesmith3448 Lee, as a current Volvo XC90 owner I couldn't agree more with you and I actually have sat in the new V60 as my mom owns one and you are right, there is no comparison. I guess my feeling though is that there shouldn't be since the loaded Outback costs a little more than half what the Volvo costs. In the U.S. where we have a lot of Subaru dealers service isn't an issue and their crash test ratings, long-term and short-term reliability ratings here all match or exceed Volvo's. That's why wagons account for only 1.4% of U.S. car sales and Subaru has 90% of that market share.
@@leesmith3448I am for the v60 CC or the Outback but here in EU the XT version of the Outback will not be available per a deal statement so we will be left with NA 182 HP engine. Good enough for daily driving, no doubts but not even close to what Volvo (or other premium brands) can offer. As far as the seats are concerned the Subaru will be a more comfy option if you do care for back seats occupants! Not sure if you every sat on the back seat of the Volvo S60, V60 series? They are so short with no support even for short people (XC60 is much better though). Subaru on the other hand does not see this issue and yet delivers adjustable seats, where one can change inclination! option not available on any Volvo except the XC90 and the exec versions of the s90.
Nice review! Just bought the D4 with all options, super happy. In USD my wife and I spent around 95000, which is too much. Until u get in the car, plug in a USB with a heavy download of all ur favorite music, and enjoy the B&W sounds system on a long drive to the mountains (we live in Norway). The perfect family wagon!
Volvo v60 and Subaru outback are two different beast. A serious outdoor individual will likely pick the outback and the rich individuals that kinda go camping once in a while will definitely buy a v60.
I've owned 7 Subaru Outbacks, and my wife is currently driving the new Forester. I also had a 2018 Mazda CX5 for 22 months but thought about my Subaru almost every day ;(. I counted down the days before I could change back to Subaru. Before I went to get my Outback back, having driven the 2020 version, I thought I would look at the Volvo first. I've always wanted one. My wife and I drove the 2020 Volvo XC60 momentum, which is a little more than the top-spec Subaru, I wasn't convinced. My wife, who is not a car person, comment on the similarities between the Subaru and Volvo. Both companies have a focus on safety and make great cars. I then drove the 2020 Volvo XC60 inscription with air suspension and Bowers and Wilkins stereo - I now drive a Volvo. Its hands down a better car. I wouldn't take it off-road, ill take the Forester.
I have the 2016 version of this car with the very last 5 cylinder available in a Volvo. It’s a blast to drive! I recently had a brand new loaded 2019 Outback as a rental in Denver, while nice to drive with a ton of bells & whistles, it doesn’t touch the V60CC! With the V60CC, you command the road! Volvo 4 Life!
On my fifth Volvo. Yes, I am a Volvo fan-boy! I also know Subaru's are excellent cars and told my mother to buy the Outback several times. Both are excellent. Just depends if you want Filet Mignon or a T-Bone... Both are great, but serve different tastes! I have had two 240s, two S60s, and am currently driving an S90. I'll take the Volvo ANY day, but won't fault anyone for choosing a Subaru.
FWIW, my father is on his third Volvo. His first was a 1989 740, then he had a V70 and now he has a 2016 V60, so I sent him this video. His car was in the dealership for servicing and he had use of a 2021 S60 for a loaner to use for a long distance trip and he loves all the new features I have on my S90. So, I forwarded him this video. Maybe my 76 year old father will get a new Volvo V60 after he sees this.
Wow super impressive! With more appropriate tires/wheels that would be killer. Nice review as always thanks. I'm a Subaru Fanboy so I'd go that way but hats off to Volvo, they always make quality vehicles. I also like the fact it has a traditional transmission VS the CVT. With the price difference between the Subaru VS the Volvo versions. I feel Subaru drivers would be more apt to take them off road and challenge the capabilities.
Volvo all wheel drive system is excellent. The only real concern with the volvo compared to Subaru would be reliability when used for off road. Subaru has a long history with tried and tested.
tires would have made no difference here. These AWD systems dont have a true center locking or even a limited slip center diff. if you lose traction on 2 wheels like he did you're SOL. Im sure if he floored it with a lot of momentum it would have made it, but it would have also broken some stuff.
@@gianpinto6783 I disagree completely, those tires just don't grip enough in those conditions, but if you change to proper off road tires you compromise on road handling !! so if you intend to tackle such terrain use off road tires, if only light off road, then use all season, common sense really, you take your choice but remember there is no perfect tire for all terrains ( That's great on and off road ).
I test drove both, and having just driven three different Volvos over the last 10 years I was set to buy the V60cc. But I went for the Outback instead. Better fuel consumption (Europe has a different range of engines in both cars), better ground clearance and importantly for me, better choice of proper off-road alloys for fitting winter tyres. But the biggest reason? I know I would have damaged the Volvo and broken bits. My car is a workhorse, carrying fishing gear, tents, military kit etc. I am forever throwing wet muddy kit in the back. On the seat belt issue, I had a company X90 Hybrid that also liked to tension the seat belt on tight corners, undulating roads and when it thought I was going to crash (lots of tight corners with trees close to the road). It’s way to reactive and spoils the experience. I also did not like the way it applied the brakes in corners. So far, the Outback has done everything I have asked with ease. I have had a 2005 outback, Skoda Scout 4x4, various land rovers and discoveries, but the Outback just gets on with things in an unfussed kind of way, no dramas. I still love the look of the V60cc though, it’s gorgeous.
The grip was there, the wheel that had grip didn't move, yet the wheel that didn't have any grip was spinning. Conclusion: Volvo need to invest more time in tuning their off-road mode.
It is not a matter of tuning. The wheels are spinning freely because a wheel cannot have 100% of it's power cut. It doesn't take much to freely spin a wheel. This is a matter of mechanics. This car, mechanically, is just not able to deliver the power required in this scenario to progress forward. The power it did deliver, though, could have been used better with more suitable tires.
Honestly, I would take this. I like the idea of having traditional gears off road (less heat in the transmission), and those seats are excellent for 400+ mile days on a road trip.
I just got my 2020 Volvo V60 CC and I LOVE IT!!! My car is sleek, sexy, sometimes mean and called “badass” by a few without me using that word. The Chrome pipes in the back, the gorgeous and luxurious 2 tones amber and black interior, the sleek profile and impressive front, the stunning open sun roof/Skylight, and the rims (even the standard are stunning). And it drives like s sports sedan!! I just traded in my Audi A5 Convertible (which I loved) and this was the biggest space containing sun opening, sports driving vehicle I test drove. Its handles turns and hugs the road. No jerky wheel, not floaty feeling like some cars. Just smooth and powerful... Did I tell you how much I love her!! Let’s just say I just washed my car for the first time washing a car in 6 years!
Great post - i wish more people would do this for prospective buyers. Curious - what state are you in? I'm actively looking at the 2020 and would like to use your deal :)
I’m still torn over the Volvo V60 CC and the new Outback XT. I currently drive a 2006 Volvo V70 R wagon that I bought new. I also had a Volvo C30 R with polestar. I don’t want to leave Volvo for a Subaru but they seem like they’re quality cars as well. What color did you get? I hope 7 months later, you’re passionate about your Volvo. I wish I knew which one to buy.
Nice offroad review!! My V60CC just got discharged from custom today in Baltimore. I live an hour from there and wish I could go and puck it up today. I wanted 18 inchers but I could not stand the wheel design. I am not a big fan of the 19" wheels but I am stuck with them for now.
@@Alberts_Kviesis On rough surfaces, I hear some road noise but not much. On smooth roads, it is very quiet. I am loving it. Very comfortable, relaxing.
This was a really good Video! Well thought out and well excecuted. Only thing i missed was a short but vital preview of the Heads up display that you mentioned. I own a V60 2019 without the Headsup Display and i’m very curious how it works!
I have one in my XC60. It simply projects onto the windscreen. It shows speed, next GPS directions, and also the state of the cruise control/ Pilot assist. To be honest, its not quite as great as I thought it would be. It may just be me but I have got to the point that I seem to ignore it and still always glance down at the dash. Its the one aspect of the Advance package for this car that I could do without. The 360 cam and more importantly the Pilot assist are where the value is
Solid overview. They're both great vehicles. Volvo wins on road manners, looks, and luxury/tech. Subaru wins on just being a Subaru - that classic goldilocks zone of not too little, not too much, throw it around on a gravel road without worrying, throw a bunch of gear in the back. Definitely prefer the Volvo trans over CVT. End of the day, I'd probably go Subaru, the vibe is just a little more practical, less pretentious. The Outback seems less cold, less serious Scandinavian, and oddly less feminine. Never thought I'd think of a Volvo as pretentious but something about this vehicle feels that way.
the seatbelt tighten on you because you lifted off the throttle and in curve with slight drift and with the angle of the steering wheel. Hill decent will give you maximum brake force on tire with grip, it will keep it at 5km/t and you can go slower with brake or faster with acc.pedal. Hill climbing is better with traction control off. Loved your review, much more on point with whats acc. to the car and different trim levels. And you did good research!
Just came across this video and it was great. I've had three Subaru Brats and one Baja. EXCELLENT VEHICLES! The only issues I had with them was that after 7 to 8 years they start to rust out and the transmissions after 85 thousand miles the third gear syncro starts to wear out. I've had four Volvo's 245 turbo, 850, S40, and XC70. The 245 turbo wagon had 302k and the floor board rotted out, 850 with usual maintenance had 258k. The S40 was 9 years old and looked like it came off the showroom floor but, was a total junk and was made by Ford with FOMOCO stamped all over it. AT 123,000 miles, Everything went wrong. Timing belt, alt, A/C, starter, transmission, the all wheel drive Haldex pump went out, both rear bearings, two struts, and the engine bearings went. Volvo dealer always worked on the S40. I had the S40 towed to the service department. The service manger came up to us and said that with all the work and cost, he said that it exceeds the cost of the car and said they didn't want us to spend any more money on it and suggested to go upstairs and talk to the sales floor. My wife loved the S40 but, they showed her a 2018 S60 and she bought, that was two years ago. Meanwhile, my XC70 with 230k and 18 years old is immaculate and is just plain WONDERFUL!!.....Volvo for life!
Really nice wagon - just too rich for my blood. I'll stick with my VW Alltrack. PS: Volvo subscription = 15,000 miles/year - not 1,500. Mis-stated @ 19:58.
i was the same way with saying "too rich for me" but then when i had $35,000 laying ready to be taken out on loan around (LOL) i got a fully loaded 2011 XC70 T6 premier brand new (well dealer owned so technically used) and ya know what, i dont even slightly regret my decision 8+ years on. 270,000 miles and never had a major issues only had to deal with typical consumables like tires and belts and fluids and i dont baby it. i mean i use it daily and to carry everything everywhere its like my little pickup truck xD. it works in snow and off road with proper tires on it its unstoppable it feels like. and apart from some of the scuffs its picked up on bumper edges and older styling, its beautiful condition and would be hard pressed to think its 8 yrs old and within a tire change of being at 300K miles
Too bad VW has dropped the Alltrak. I liked that car but...I leased the Volvo V60, and I think/hope Volvo will keep its commitment to the wagon style, which VW did not.
The trend towards a centralised “ipad” display is a dangerous trend towards distracted driving. Functions should be quick to access, digging through menu pages searching for simple functions very bad idea.
Plus cars have auto steer features as seen in the video which the Volvo has a 30 second steer time. All in all cars are better suited these days for distraction then their old counterparts
@@GamingBelgian Excellent point! Not many owners are familiar with all the functionalities of their vehicles. I own the exact model in this video and can't say enough wonderful things about it. This is my 3rd Volvo.
The Volvo sensus system does have a bit of a learning curve. Once you're used to it though, its very intuitive to the point that, like with your phone many things are done by muscle memory as opposed to thinking about it. As long as you survive the first month, youre good!
FIrst of all, Volvo has a voice control right on the steering wheel. Second, Volvo's infotainment is super easy to use. It takes like 1-2 clicks to get what you want, maybe 1 swipe. It's not hard to learn.
Is there any possibility to turn off the function which cuts the engine power? ESP off? At the end it looks like brake system was doing good job but there was not enough power due to rpm limit.
Such classyfication is obsolete and pointless these days. So called premium brands do not offer anything more valuable (except more power on th etop of the model line). And the recent Outback interior is better in many aspects like adjustable rear seats or headrests, both not available on the Volvo (and I am the Volvo brand lover to make it clear so no bias for Subaru here)
I think Volvo does compete more in that bracket, but Skoda, Seat, and Peugeot aren't available in the USA. Also, pretty much the only manufacturers making station wagons widely available over here are Volvo, Subaru, and Volkswagen. Some of the luxury brands make them too, but they just aren't a popular choice at all.
Great review. The Volvo feels like a better package. I'm sure the Subie would edge it a little bit in terms of off-roading but such occasions are very rare to me. And the CVT in the Subie is also such a deal-killer.
Gitonga Kelvin have you driven an Outback with CVT? I took a levorg with CVT for a test drive and I did not like it. I stepped straight into the Outback and it felt totally different and suited the car well.
This is the car I really want but my 2018 outback 3.6r limited (with some added features) was $35k new vs $40k on the base V60. And I love my outback, after riding around in new crossovers looking for a new car for my mom I only started liking my outback more.
I second that. However, front brakes are getting bigger and bigger, so the rim size must follow. Most new big cars today could tolerate 17in and I find anything above unnecessary when looking at it from a function over form perspective.
I ended up buying the Outback. I use the car rather than pamper it, and I just felt the Outback would look better and last better after 3-4 years of use in the Scottish Highlands. The Volvo was lovely inside, but impractical for a vehicle used in the countryside. Who thought pale grey was a good idea for someone that has outdoor pursuits. I went for the brown nappa leather in the Subaru, and after 4 years, it still looked great despite me jumping out the river and into the car with waders on. I have just bought the latest Outback, and again, I had a look at alternatives, but again, I could not find anything that would handle muddy boots, large loads, dirty clothes and rough roads the way the Outback does. The other thing I like about the Outback is that I loaded it up with fishing gear and camping gear, jumped in it and did a 900 mile road trip to France and back and it was super comfy, had good motorway manners, has a bit of authority on the rod to keep the mad French drivers at bay, and it handled all sorts of rough roads and mud on the journey.
I own Both and the Subaru is my go to car for poor weather driving. Now not as refined as my Volvo, but by God it is a hella of lot better when the road gets mucky, or ends. and for the money, there really is no comparison. Subaru is the Better off road wagon all day long!
Did you try tuning the traction control off? Seemed like it was cutting power? It's a nice car but it is out of my $$ range. I own an outback and love everything but the cvt.
Nice review, I have known Volvos for safety. The V60 design is great. Would love to try this sometime next year when I sell my 2015 outback......sadly, I may never get this till 5years as am in Kenya:) ........I would love to have the v60 with 7 seats, would be the ultimate family hauler....Good job DrivingSportsTV
@@normt5463 even with the 2,5l engine the Subaru will climb the hill! I've got B13 2007 and B14 3,6, both great on climbing and I've got to a places that never been before! 30%gravel not a problem for 165h.p. 2,5
On the V60 Cross Country.... Must Haves 1. the Plaid Seating, beautiful and unique and cheaper!! 2. The 18 inch wheels do not upgrade to the 19!1 3. you can buy a skid plate as an accessory! 4. do not buy the appearance package........ buy the scuff plate you see on this video on the side again as an accessory..... Do not buy the 4k stereo, along with leather seats......... Best configuration is 49k!! Love IT............. My Battle Wago
I am definitely in the minority. But I like these station wagons. I really liked the Regal Tour X too. This vehicle is gorgeous in my opinion. I would buy it over a Subaru any day. Well, any day I could afford to. Great video!
I own an outback and I agree the Tour x and Volvo and great looking cars but the tour x doesn't have the ground clearance to be taken off road so to me it's not quite the same category--it's more of pure sport wagon rather than lifted wagon/crossover.
This is due to that it is “cornering” lights for beter visibility on the sides, so they turn on and off depending on angle of the steering wheel. Most useful in city traffic for pedestrians and bicyclists
This video was great - Thanks! By the way, noticed that during the rocky climb the lower lights on the front bumper were turning on (one at a time) and then off - any idea which feature is this?
It’s not that good, the one I tested was 84k but it was less comfortable then a 40k Volvo v90. And that a6 had 190hk but if you tune a d5 v90 you get 290hp and 390ft-lb
@@michaels5691 Fair enough, but you haven't driven up that particular track, so you can't say with genuine confidence that the Subaru would do it until you have actually tried it, speculation doesn't make it a fact !! you could also argue that not all " all weather tires "perform the same ! maybe the tires on the Volvo are designed to be better on road than off road, when you think that it is a "Car Derived Model " ! whereas the Subaru is designed from the ground up for this purpose !! so the tires chosen as standard would probably be more likely to perform better off road than on road ! just a thought.
@@Colin623 Here is my two month old Subaru traversing the ruts. th-cam.com/video/orpbY5zfhEY/w-d-xo.html I think I can say with confidence mine will make it up that little hill. FYI, I'm also running Continental all season tires like the Volvo is using.
Did you noticed at 13:38 and 13:58 how the fog lights turned on, left and right, respectively? Look like they turned on every time you're getting traction on each wheels OR it is a malfunction. It happened again at 14:45. At 15:14 both fog light are off and again at 15:18 left one is on. (???)
The fog lights turn on when your steering wheel turns to illuminate where you’re going. It’s a feature that’s been on a few different cars over the years.
Outback has similar feature, left and right fog light will turn on if you turn in that direction, I find this a little annoying and have my fogs always on.
Robert Jaskiewicz How is it annoying? All you see is better lighting in your direction of turn. Also, the 2020 Outback doesn’t have that feature. In the upper trims, the headlamp projectors swing into the turn. The fog lights now stay lit or off the entire time.
Interesting how the car refuses to provide power to the wheel when it's most needed. Because that WASN'T 100% power. Seems like it safe locks to prevent damage or sth..
Exactly, it could do it but for some reason software limited the power, interesting. But he was trying to climb from full stop. With just a little bit of speed (momentum) it would do it easily :D
17:24 onwards.. Slightly disappointed in commentary. There is clearly grip, the front right is doing nothing with it.. This means that the very expensive volvo cannot transfer power to the right place. Again I take my hat off to the engineers at Subaru.
I have had accouple of Subaru's and I now own a Volvo.... The Volvo is the best car I have ever owned and I will pass it down to my children to drive one day.
The moment you said Volvo has 8-speed AT it was clear that Volvo is better, any transmission is better than Subaru CVT, I know because I used it in 2017 Outback.
I am waiting for you to take the Forester up there or, why not, the Outback. This Volvo is thrilling. Very upscale and refined. Nice vídeo Mr. Douthit.
Thanks for watching! The very first vehicle we took up this road was the 2019 Forester. Unfortunately, it was before we had really refined the course so it’s a throwaway shot. You can see it in our Subaru Dual-XMode explained video. We’re working on getting an Outback XT up here, which uses a similar system. But no ETA yet.
Nobody cross shops these. If you are spending 39K why would you look at something that cost almost 60k. The Subaru is obtainable by most middle class families the Volvo is not
That’s true. They’re considered a luxury brand so you’re gonna that premium. Personally I would never spend that kinda money on a car. But they are sure nice!
Hello everyone, In Greece now the price of subaru outback with 2.5 engine with 150 hp the only option costs 60000 euro while volvo v60 cross country with 2.0 diesel engine with 197 hp also only option cost less than 55000 euro, so if I had the money I will chose the volvo
Good review and that’s what I wanted to see...a real driver testing it’s capabilities until it can’t ...which was more about the tires then having adequate power and vehicle traction system. This video helped with making a decision.
Which do you like better: The 2020 Subaru Outback XT or the 2020 Volvo V60 Cross Country?
Volvo v60 cross country
The plaid interior in the XC60 is unbeatable.
Michael Salsman Not the new V60. It’s considerably larger inside than the old V60. While I agree that it’s still smaller than the Outback, it is considerably larger than the Crosstrek. The V90 is definitely more of an Outback competitor.
J Packard It retracts, then locks. It does that in anticipation of a crash.
If we take into account how much "car" we get for a dollar then the winner is Outback. If money is not a problem, then I would take Volvo.
Volvo invented the 3-point seat-belt. In addition, they gave the patent away for free.
If the seat-belt hug you like that, it's the Volvos way to say it loves you.
Beautiful!
Group hug!
Elestro Air-soft And my belt release is a bit dodgy, so my Volvo doesn’t want to let me go. But I love him, so it’s not a problem…
That was decades ago. Today Subaru is a safer car brand than Volvo. Just an example: th-cam.com/video/ZYTil2eAFpw/w-d-xo.html
Elestro Air-soft cute
I test drove both and bought the V60 CC. I do occasional light off road ... BLM roads graded for 8” of clearance, dirt roads for fishing access, etc. so either vehicle would have worked. The Volvo is much better looking, is way more luxurious, and more fun to drive. It’s also a lower roofline, so car topping my fishing yak is an easier lift. Very happy with my CC.
The Volvo couldn't do the last climb because the AWD system was cutting power to prevent damage to the transmission. It had nothing to do with tires or grip. You can clearly see on the video that it stopped once 2 wheels were in the air diagonally and it didn't spin the 2 wheels that had traction. These AWD systems are made mainly for on-road safety and gravel road cornering. That's my opinion, I enjoyed your video!
On The last climb a Subaru Will climb ir easylly
@@DidioFRodriguezLee its not climb EASY, but yes, it could.
@@DidioFRodriguezLee I wouldn't be so sure. TFL tested Outback in a similar situation and it behaved similarly. With two diagonal wheels in the air and gas pedal to the floor it cut power and wasn't able to transfer enough torque to the other two wheels to make it over the obstacle. These brake based traction control systems are no replacement for locking diffs.
@@SlavaLeonov I've seen plenty of Forester videos in that situation and they get stuck. There's quite a religion with Subarus but they are nothing more than open differential electronic driven traction cars.
I totally agree with your opinion..👍🏼
It really isn't easy to beat the looks of the V60 CC, inside and out.
Alofzico Audi A4 Avant....sane price too 😅
M Lee The A4 doesn't even come close to the looks from the V60
M Lee
An A4 isn’t the same as a V60 CC; an A4 Allroad would be the competitor.
The v60 is basicaly a v90 with a deformed back
@@soss17beatz87 other way around?
The Subaru fills a different spot in the market. Doubt you would see this off road even if it is as capable as the Outback. The Volvo is luxurious and the Subaru is utilitarian.
On off road mode allways use sport esc (esc off) otherwise it will cut power before you get the needed torque to get over the obstacle
Those prices in Europe are not so different especially when you look at the 2 year old cars. Volvo has so much more quality and comfort and I really hate the CVT gearbox on Toyotas and Subarus. So even I had 2 Subarus before I'm really not sure if the next car will be a Subie.
I've always been a Volvo fan, so my choice is easy. Wow what a car our Swedish neighbors have made this time, but also for decades from the very beginning.
OH Swedish? Chinese!
@@RhubarbVIVII bullshit. Geely is just the owner company of volvo and has almost nothing to do with the company products at all.
JS Danyluk because it’s made in China now doesn’t mean it’s not Swedish
JS Danyluk Chinese? This car is designed, constructed and built in the Torslanda factory outside of Gothenburg in Sweden.
fortnite brothers it's not made in China. It's made in Gothenburg Sweden
Just bought a 2020 Subaru Outback Limited. We used to own a Volvo V70 and maintenance costs were ridiculous. So far, we really like the Outback.
I know people with Volvo's that never break down. You must have been really harsh on your cars.
@@bighands69 all cars wear out or break, and when it does the Volvo costs $$$$ to make it right. Consumers' questioned the legenday liabilty
3:50 I did buy B&W audio in both my S90 Inscription and my XC60 Inscription and haven't regret it one second. On the next Volvo I buy, it'll be the first option I'll add ;)
Price difference: Subaru Outback Onyx XT $38,500 vs Volvo V60 CC in the video $56,990!
I wouldnt mind going a little off road with a Subaru. With the Volvo I would feel so horrible. Haha. It's such a nice looking vehicle where as a Subaru would be my workhorse.
Yeah, but you can get the V60 CC without all those options for about $45k, probably less with dealer discounts (and there's almost always a $2k discount for already-Volvo owners), so the price difference isn't necessarily that great. Is the Volvo worth $7k-$8k more than the Subaru? Yeah, because of the quality of the interior. So it's more a question of the customer's finances. If the idea is to go more off paved roads, the Subaru is probably better; on paved roads, the Volvo wins by a huge margin. If I had to do a lot of off-pavement driving with mud, water, rocks, etc., I'd probably get the Subaru; otherwise, the Volvo.
After negotiating my 2020 V60 CC came down to $45,000. It has the heated back seats and steering wheel, the Advanced package which add Adaptive Cruise Control, Pilot Assist, Heads Up display to name a few. It has the big skylight sunroof and a few other nice perks. So its not so out of control. To lease for 3 years with $3500 total down, 10k miles a year, tax included comes to $496/month. Free maintenance for 3 years so no extras to spend. $15.00 more for next mileage increase or down for less mileage.
@@rimalaw77 That's a GREAT price with all those added options! congrats!
cba tiau Thank you! And Audi wanted so much for their crossovers that had half the features, and sadly didn’t drive nearly as nice as the CC unless i stuck with a sedan or A5. I really love my new baby! Thanks and hope you get what you want too.
Thanks for the test - impressive performance for a Volvo CC. I drive it’s big brother the V90 CC (with a D5 diesel) but haven’t put it through anything similar as of yet. We do get some challenging winters here in Volvos home country so glad to have the off road abilities and the amazing standard suspension comfort. Also says something how the V90CC made it to the top in the police car ranking over here, not only love for the household brand..
Thank you for doing the off-road testing on vehicles. Those mountain roads are similar to what I encounter in CA mountains and knowing how a vehicle responds is important to me. Great reviews!
I have an older wagon I LOVE IT🤗 dies great where I live in Truckee Ca😇
V60 cc has a more attractive appearance, great design, but Outback is more practical having an unique charisma . It's the best friend to rely on. Hello from Russia!)
When you do your traction test it would be awesome if you put white tape on the wheels just one piece from center out so we can clock the tire rotations easily: 5:30
Thanks so much for doing this video! It was great to see the car in a true off road test as I am considering purchase of this Volvo as well as Subaru. Both are great cars. The choice really comes down to affordability for the buyer. Personally I am leaning toward the Volvo.
affordability....hmmm, You might consider the price of spare parts, cost of service and replacement of said parts between the two makes of cars. In Australia, Subaru is well stocked and spares are not an issue. Not so sure about the availability of Volvo parts and whether I'd take it to anyone else but a dealer after the five year warranty is finished. Dealers are known rip-off merchants here. Go figure.
The seatbelt pulling you into the seat right before you crash greatly prevents body injuries caused by the traditional seatbelt. It is necessary and should be standard in all vehicles.
Blaž Bohinc but only the Volvo it happens when you are not crashing! Pre tensioners are standard sizes n most cars but the Volvo ones are far too sensitive. My hands were actually pulled off the steering wheel when I went over a jump in the road and the car went light.
We have owned five Volvo's in the past . They are the best cars ever. All were super reliable and reasonable to maintain. Now we own two Outbacks. One with the 3.6R. Amazing car . I get why Subi drivers love their cars. And I get why Volvo owners love their cars. The Subi is an excellent utilitarian car. The Volvo is the best road trip car ever. Cant go wrong with either one.
I've love the look and design of the cross country Volvo including the previous generation. I own an Outback but would probably buy a Volvo if I could afford it. Great video. Love your channel
One of the big things for Volvo is their safety systems that are the best on the market.
I bought a used 2015 Volvo V60 T5 AWD just coming off lease as a cheaper way to almost the same equipment, and with only 23,500 km on it. That is 4 years of depreciation but only 1 year equivalent use. Look for them.
Only person that actually tries truly and isn't scared of taking the new car anywhere. Good job
As it turns out I own a 2020 Volvo V 60 cross country exactly like the one in the video, except without the $4000 Soundsystem. It cost nowhere near $56,000. I was considering the Subaru, but the Volvo is a much nicer car. And while I don’t do any rock crawling, it’s nice to see how capable it is. Thanks.
Yes, I have also compared Subaru wagons to Volvo CC wagons seriously when looking to purchase, and I chose the Volvo CC twice; when it came up to choosing between a Subaru and a Toyota Highlander, we ended up going with the Highlander...
Volvo has very good discounting on older models of +$10,000. Not sure if they would discount a new V60 like that or if the leasing is that good of a deal unless you had Volvo's in the past.
We chose the Regal TourX which can be had for middle US$20's.
Brian Whitehouse Volvos are much cheaper in Sweden
So what did you pay and what option packages you chose ?
@@sudheendrar in Sweden you can buy a brand new Volvo V60 Cross Country for about $38,000
So when i was shopping for a used wagon in my area. I had 2 options ome up for sale. A 2015 Subaru Outback 3.6 and a 2017 Volvo V60CC. I decided the Volvo was the better car based on comfort and mpg. My Volvo will be getting a set of 215/70R16 General Grabber APT or BFGoodridge KO2s due to me turning it in to a overlanding vehicle
Same - I was cross-shopping 8-10 year old AWD wagons and it turns out Subarus are more expensive that Volvos in that vintage! The quality, however, is a huge difference, so now I have a XC70 which we use as a mini-overlanding vehicle. Works great off road and we mostly run across pickups, who are typically shocked to see a Volvo on the trail...
Love what volvo is doing with their lineup between the exterior updates and the lush interior these cars have come a long way. Killer video, keep up the good work.
V60 CC all the way. I have an XC 60 and it drives beautifully. I imagine the V60 is even better
Being a Swede, I'm not entirely unbiased 😉 I would the V60CC in a heart-beat. With that said, I have great respect for Japanese cars. I've owned a Honda S2000, omg, what a car...
Being a Dane, my choice too would be easy. Only problem is can’t really justify yet another purchase. Currently got XC90 and XC60. They are outstanding and sooo gorgeous. You really do get the feeling that the cars love you with those responsive seatbelts. 😉
first time watcher of this channel but big volvo fan and car shows in general. this is an example of a job well done. im a fan
I watched your channel first time, I liked!.
Especially your shootings are great. First interior shots were like a commercial, and some scenes in the forest was like a walpaper with that very crisp 4k.
Also of course in terms of review, I liked your detailed review.
Thanks.
Great review. The Volvo feels like a better package. I'm sure the Subie would edge it a little bit in terms of off-roading but such occasions are very rare to me. And the CVT in the Subie is also such a deal-breaker.
As an owner of an s60 I can safely say that the Volvo’s are one of the finest cars on the road today
Which model year? I also own an s60, 2006
Frejborg a 2016 t6 drive e platinum; my next car is going to be another Volvo I’ve fallen in love with the brand
@@sebastianhasbun3846 Yes, I am Volvo for life. I test drove a 2019 s60 with the 316HP, and pretty loaded features.. I loved it!
Sebastian Hasbun
Without question.
V90 D5 inscription with all the extras available. Definitely agreed but they aren't cheap :/
I shopped the Outback against the last gen V60CC model and getting the Subaru to the level of luxury I wanted wasn't possible. The Outback was within spitting distance price wise after checking all the boxes so I went with a Volvo. The current model just raises the luxury bar even higher. I ended up driving the XC60 and went with it though. I know your comparing "estates" here, but if you live in the drivers seat a lot the price difference is justified.
I have an S90 and am absolutely in love with Volvo. I have wondered about the cross country for its capabilities. Though I don’t drive anywhere that needs true off road abilities, weather and road conditions can deteriorate quickly and awd does come in handy. Thanks for this.
The v90 cross country is my all time favorite Volvo
Now to convince the wife a station wagon is cool!
The best explaining and detailed Chanel, thanks a lot for your job!
I'd take the Subaru for this kind of driving (I have one and have done this kind of driving). That being said, I'm planning on getting the Volvo anyway and giving my Outback to my college age son. It really is a work horse and super safe.
Great review, but I would have liked to have seen a more point by point comparison of the two on the mountain.
I love how commenters only hear what they want to hear. It starts at just over $45k ---- but everyone quotes the $56k price! No one buys a Subaru for its luxury. Subaru's are work horses and thats it. They are good at it. The Volvo is for people who want that little 'extra' in a car and don't spend all their time off road. The V60 XC is one good looking car too :-)
Lee people quote $57k because sadly with modern Volvos you have to tick all the options boxes to get the safety gear that comes standard on the Subaru and used to come standard on Volvos. I LOVE Volvo and drive one currently but my next ride will be a 2020 Subaru Outback Limited with all the safety gear and capabilities of the Volvo for $25k less. Oh, and btw Subaru also holds its value better, is cheaper to maintain, runs on regular unleaded, and crash tests beautifully. The only way to buy the Volvo (unless you have money to burn) is to buy it 2 years old after it’s taken a $25k hit in depreciation.
@@erikhord458 Yeah, I guess different markets have different view points. I am UK based (and own a few Volvos). We see Subaru different over hear. Very capable but ultimately not very desirable.Can't remember the last time I saw an Outback on the road whereas almost every third car in the area I live is a Volvo. Therefore far more places to service them and no local Subaru dealership. Also, UK Subarus look awful with no class. However, we all know they will get across a field better than a Volvo. No UK snow has ever stopped our XC90 or S60. All UK petrol cars run on the same Petrol so thats not a comparison here either. The biggest problem for Subaru over here is rust....they have very poor paintwork quality and rust protection against Volvo at it shows. Volvo's last longer bodywork wise. But, you are right...Volvo have got expensive but make a superb second hand buy. Subaru have come on a long way...before you buy one though....sit in the new V60 and feel the atmosphere and superb seats ;-) Anyway, comparison over, lol.
@@leesmith3448 Lee, as a current Volvo XC90 owner I couldn't agree more with you and I actually have sat in the new V60 as my mom owns one and you are right, there is no comparison. I guess my feeling though is that there shouldn't be since the loaded Outback costs a little more than half what the Volvo costs. In the U.S. where we have a lot of Subaru dealers service isn't an issue and their crash test ratings, long-term and short-term reliability ratings here all match or exceed Volvo's. That's why wagons account for only 1.4% of U.S. car sales and Subaru has 90% of that market share.
The Regal TourX 2.0T even offers more than Subaru but for less.
@@leesmith3448I am for the v60 CC or the Outback but here in EU the XT version of the Outback will not be available per a deal statement so we will be left with NA 182 HP engine. Good enough for daily driving, no doubts but not even close to what Volvo (or other premium brands) can offer.
As far as the seats are concerned the Subaru will be a more comfy option if you do care for back seats occupants! Not sure if you every sat on the back seat of the Volvo S60, V60 series? They are so short with no support even for short people (XC60 is much better though).
Subaru on the other hand does not see this issue and yet delivers adjustable seats, where one can change inclination! option not available on any Volvo except the XC90 and the exec versions of the s90.
i thoroughly enjoyed this review! extremely well done!
Nice review! Just bought the D4 with all options, super happy. In USD my wife and I spent around 95000, which is too much. Until u get in the car, plug in a USB with a heavy download of all ur favorite music, and enjoy the B&W sounds system on a long drive to the mountains (we live in Norway). The perfect family wagon!
SV Fun Was that price in Swedish Krona or in Dollars?
@@georgeetoile6686 Dollars, 840000 norwegian kroner.
@@svfun5263 Jesus, your economy is so different in Norway. Fully loaded B4(replaced D4) is about 615000 SEK here in Sweden.
@@guseks8413 Yeah, we have so much tax on cars :( This was the price with 2 sets of tires etc, ready on the road.
I understand that you test the cars with its factory equipment, but the same hill with 17" wheels and better tires would be interesting!
Volvo v60 and Subaru outback are two different beast. A serious outdoor individual will likely pick the outback and the rich individuals that kinda go camping once in a while will definitely buy a v60.
I've owned 7 Subaru Outbacks, and my wife is currently driving the new Forester. I also had a 2018 Mazda CX5 for 22 months but thought about my Subaru almost every day ;(. I counted down the days before I could change back to Subaru.
Before I went to get my Outback back, having driven the 2020 version, I thought I would look at the Volvo first. I've always wanted one. My wife and I drove the 2020 Volvo XC60 momentum, which is a little more than the top-spec Subaru, I wasn't convinced. My wife, who is not a car person, comment on the similarities between the Subaru and Volvo. Both companies have a focus on safety and make great cars.
I then drove the 2020 Volvo XC60 inscription with air suspension and Bowers and Wilkins stereo - I now drive a Volvo. Its hands down a better car. I wouldn't take it off-road, ill take the Forester.
I have the 2016 version of this car with the very last 5 cylinder available in a Volvo. It’s a blast to drive! I recently had a brand new loaded 2019 Outback as a rental in Denver, while nice to drive with a ton of bells & whistles, it doesn’t touch the V60CC! With the V60CC, you command the road! Volvo 4 Life!
On my fifth Volvo. Yes, I am a Volvo fan-boy! I also know Subaru's are excellent cars and told my mother to buy the Outback several times. Both are excellent. Just depends if you want Filet Mignon or a T-Bone... Both are great, but serve different tastes! I have had two 240s, two S60s, and am currently driving an S90. I'll take the Volvo ANY day, but won't fault anyone for choosing a Subaru.
FWIW, my father is on his third Volvo. His first was a 1989 740, then he had a V70 and now he has a 2016 V60, so I sent him this video. His car was in the dealership for servicing and he had use of a 2021 S60 for a loaner to use for a long distance trip and he loves all the new features I have on my S90. So, I forwarded him this video. Maybe my 76 year old father will get a new Volvo V60 after he sees this.
Wow super impressive! With more appropriate tires/wheels that would be killer. Nice review as always thanks. I'm a Subaru Fanboy so I'd go that way but hats off to Volvo, they always make quality vehicles. I also like the fact it has a traditional transmission VS the CVT. With the price difference between the Subaru VS the Volvo versions. I feel Subaru drivers would be more apt to take them off road and challenge the capabilities.
Volvo all wheel drive system is excellent. The only real concern with the volvo compared to Subaru would be reliability when used for off road. Subaru has a long history with tried and tested.
tires would have made no difference here. These AWD systems dont have a true center locking or even a limited slip center diff. if you lose traction on 2 wheels like he did you're SOL. Im sure if he floored it with a lot of momentum it would have made it, but it would have also broken some stuff.
@@gianpinto6783 I disagree completely, those tires just don't grip enough in those conditions, but if you change to proper off road tires you compromise on road handling !! so if you intend to tackle such terrain use off road tires, if only light off road, then use all season, common sense really, you take your choice but remember there is no perfect tire for all terrains ( That's great on and off road ).
@@Colin623 take a look at the video again. You'll notice that his rear wheel is completely still... This shows you this isn't a traction issue.
The volvo is really good! I am thinking of getting one in the future! however, tire is the limiting factor for sure
Justin Horman Standard V60 tires are 235/45R17 All Season Continental, a better choice for off road.
Volvo of course. Volvo4life !
I test drove both, and having just driven three different Volvos over the last 10 years I was set to buy the V60cc. But I went for the Outback instead. Better fuel consumption (Europe has a different range of engines in both cars), better ground clearance and importantly for me, better choice of proper off-road alloys for fitting winter tyres.
But the biggest reason? I know I would have damaged the Volvo and broken bits. My car is a workhorse, carrying fishing gear, tents, military kit etc. I am forever throwing wet muddy kit in the back.
On the seat belt issue, I had a company X90 Hybrid that also liked to tension the seat belt on tight corners, undulating roads and when it thought I was going to crash (lots of tight corners with trees close to the road). It’s way to reactive and spoils the experience. I also did not like the way it applied the brakes in corners.
So far, the Outback has done everything I have asked with ease. I have had a 2005 outback, Skoda Scout 4x4, various land rovers and discoveries, but the Outback just gets on with things in an unfussed kind of way, no dramas.
I still love the look of the V60cc though, it’s gorgeous.
17:30 Turn Off - Traction control - then more spin get more tourqe on right wheels.
Great quick informative review
And love these offroad runs you do
Did you test the subaru on the hill the volvo spun out on? Did the suby make it up?
The grip was there, the wheel that had grip didn't move, yet the wheel that didn't have any grip was spinning. Conclusion: Volvo need to invest more time in tuning their off-road mode.
Or the tc system stopped the wheel from spinning?
It is not a matter of tuning. The wheels are spinning freely because a wheel cannot have 100% of it's power cut. It doesn't take much to freely spin a wheel.
This is a matter of mechanics. This car, mechanically, is just not able to deliver the power required in this scenario to progress forward. The power it did deliver, though, could have been used better with more suitable tires.
Volvo are the best, been driving volvos for 45 years....I still have my 1994 940! 275k miles...these cars are simply the best!
Honestly, I would take this. I like the idea of having traditional gears off road (less heat in the transmission), and those seats are excellent for 400+ mile days on a road trip.
Yeah, if you do any long-distance driving, the Volvo blows the Subaru away in seat comfort. I have a bad lower back, and this is crucial for me.
I just got my 2020 Volvo V60 CC and I LOVE IT!!! My car is sleek, sexy, sometimes mean and called “badass” by a few without me using that word. The Chrome pipes in the back, the gorgeous and luxurious 2 tones amber and black interior, the sleek profile and impressive front, the stunning open sun roof/Skylight, and the rims (even the standard are stunning). And it drives like s sports sedan!! I just traded in my Audi A5 Convertible (which I loved) and this was the biggest space containing sun opening, sports driving vehicle I test drove. Its handles turns and hugs the road. No jerky wheel, not floaty feeling like some cars. Just smooth and powerful... Did I tell you how much I love her!! Let’s just say I just washed my car for the first time washing a car in 6 years!
Great post - i wish more people would do this for prospective buyers. Curious - what state are you in? I'm actively looking at the 2020 and would like to use your deal :)
I’m still torn over the Volvo V60 CC and the new Outback XT. I currently drive a 2006 Volvo V70 R wagon that I bought new. I also had a Volvo C30 R with polestar. I don’t want to leave Volvo for a Subaru but they seem like they’re quality cars as well. What color did you get? I hope 7 months later, you’re passionate about your Volvo. I wish I knew which one to buy.
Nice offroad review!! My V60CC just got discharged from custom today in Baltimore. I live an hour from there and wish I could go and puck it up today. I wanted 18 inchers but I could not stand the wheel design. I am not a big fan of the 19" wheels but I am stuck with them for now.
Baller...you ordered yours in, like fast-food. Very nice!
wider tires are more noisy. write then how they perform. congratulations to you as new Volvo owner
@@Alberts_Kviesis On rough surfaces, I hear some road noise but not much. On smooth roads, it is very quiet. I am loving it. Very comfortable, relaxing.
This was a really good Video! Well thought out and well excecuted. Only thing i missed was a short but vital preview of the Heads up display that you mentioned. I own a V60 2019 without the Headsup Display and i’m very curious how it works!
I have one in my XC60. It simply projects onto the windscreen. It shows speed, next GPS directions, and also the state of the cruise control/ Pilot assist. To be honest, its not quite as great as I thought it would be. It may just be me but I have got to the point that I seem to ignore it and still always glance down at the dash. Its the one aspect of the Advance package for this car that I could do without. The 360 cam and more importantly the Pilot assist are where the value is
Solid overview. They're both great vehicles. Volvo wins on road manners, looks, and luxury/tech. Subaru wins on just being a Subaru - that classic goldilocks zone of not too little, not too much, throw it around on a gravel road without worrying, throw a bunch of gear in the back. Definitely prefer the Volvo trans over CVT. End of the day, I'd probably go Subaru, the vibe is just a little more practical, less pretentious. The Outback seems less cold, less serious Scandinavian, and oddly less feminine. Never thought I'd think of a Volvo as pretentious but something about this vehicle feels that way.
2020 Volvo V60 Cross Country yes one of thos thx very much.
the seatbelt tighten on you because you lifted off the throttle and in curve with slight drift and with the angle of the steering wheel.
Hill decent will give you maximum brake force on tire with grip, it will keep it at 5km/t and you can go slower with brake or faster with acc.pedal.
Hill climbing is better with traction control off.
Loved your review, much more on point with whats acc. to the car and different trim levels. And you did good research!
Just came across this video and it was great. I've had three Subaru Brats and one Baja. EXCELLENT VEHICLES! The only issues I had with them was that after 7 to 8 years they start to rust out and the transmissions after 85 thousand miles the third gear syncro starts to wear out. I've had four Volvo's 245 turbo, 850, S40, and XC70. The 245 turbo wagon had 302k and the floor board rotted out, 850 with usual maintenance had 258k.
The S40 was 9 years old and looked like it came off the showroom floor but, was a total junk and was made by Ford with FOMOCO stamped all over it. AT 123,000 miles, Everything went wrong. Timing belt, alt, A/C, starter, transmission, the all wheel drive Haldex pump went out, both rear bearings, two struts, and the engine bearings went. Volvo dealer always worked on the S40. I had the S40 towed to the service department. The service manger came up to us and said that with all the work and cost, he said that it exceeds the cost of the car and said they didn't want us to spend any more money on it and suggested to go upstairs and talk to the sales floor. My wife loved the S40 but, they showed her a 2018 S60 and she bought, that was two years ago. Meanwhile, my XC70 with 230k and 18 years old is immaculate and is just plain WONDERFUL!!.....Volvo for life!
Really nice wagon - just too rich for my blood. I'll stick with my VW Alltrack.
PS: Volvo subscription = 15,000 miles/year - not 1,500. Mis-stated @ 19:58.
i was the same way with saying "too rich for me" but then when i had $35,000 laying ready to be taken out on loan around (LOL) i got a fully loaded 2011 XC70 T6 premier brand new (well dealer owned so technically used) and ya know what, i dont even slightly regret my decision 8+ years on. 270,000 miles and never had a major issues only had to deal with typical consumables like tires and belts and fluids and i dont baby it. i mean i use it daily and to carry everything everywhere its like my little pickup truck xD. it works in snow and off road with proper tires on it its unstoppable it feels like. and apart from some of the scuffs its picked up on bumper edges and older styling, its beautiful condition and would be hard pressed to think its 8 yrs old and within a tire change of being at 300K miles
Too bad VW has dropped the Alltrak. I liked that car but...I leased the Volvo V60, and I think/hope Volvo will keep its commitment to the wagon style, which VW did not.
I put grabber at3 tyres on my V90 CC. It handled everything I ever threw at it.
The trend towards a centralised “ipad” display is a dangerous trend towards distracted driving. Functions should be quick to access, digging through menu pages searching for simple functions very bad idea.
You can control all the functions by speech, which is even less distracting than pushing a button.
Plus cars have auto steer features as seen in the video which the Volvo has a 30 second steer time. All in all cars are better suited these days for distraction then their old counterparts
@@GamingBelgian Excellent point! Not many owners are familiar with all the functionalities of their vehicles. I own the exact model in this video and can't say enough wonderful things about it. This is my 3rd Volvo.
The Volvo sensus system does have a bit of a learning curve. Once you're used to it though, its very intuitive to the point that, like with your phone many things are done by muscle memory as opposed to thinking about it. As long as you survive the first month, youre good!
FIrst of all, Volvo has a voice control right on the steering wheel. Second, Volvo's infotainment is super easy to use. It takes like 1-2 clicks to get what you want, maybe 1 swipe. It's not hard to learn.
Is there any possibility to turn off the function which cuts the engine power? ESP off? At the end it looks like brake system was doing good job but there was not enough power due to rpm limit.
As far as I read on forums you can turn dynamic stability control (Volvo's ESP) via a menu in the computer.
Great roller videos btw!
@@moonsapling Thanks 🙂
@@moonsapling You can also turn off DSTC spin control.
18:32 its not about grip we can see that there re two wheels with a lot of traction but it couldnt deliver torque to thoes wheels
Exactly right, Volvo is only cross country, not off-road.
No question-VOLVO! Subarus are a mechanics best friend!
Isn’t Subaru more in the league with Skoda, Seat, Peugeot etc?
Volvo compates with Merc BMW Audi premium bracket
Not about that in this case. The Subaru is more known for offroad style cars
Such classyfication is obsolete and pointless these days. So called premium brands do not offer anything more valuable (except more power on th etop of the model line).
And the recent Outback interior is better in many aspects like adjustable rear seats or headrests, both not available on the Volvo (and I am the Volvo brand lover to make it clear so no bias for Subaru here)
I think Volvo does compete more in that bracket, but Skoda, Seat, and Peugeot aren't available in the USA. Also, pretty much the only manufacturers making station wagons widely available over here are Volvo, Subaru, and Volkswagen. Some of the luxury brands make them too, but they just aren't a popular choice at all.
Volvo for life!
I would definitely buy the V60. It looks so much better on the outside than the Outback.
I had the choice, I got the V60CC and I am thrilled with the car. The Subaru is Bo-Ring.
Great review. The Volvo feels like a better package. I'm sure the Subie would edge it a little bit in terms of off-roading but such occasions are very rare to me. And the CVT in the Subie is also such a deal-killer.
Gitonga Kelvin have you driven an Outback with CVT? I took a levorg with CVT for a test drive and I did not like it. I stepped straight into the Outback and it felt totally different and suited the car well.
This is the car I really want but my 2018 outback 3.6r limited (with some added features) was $35k new vs $40k on the base V60. And I love my outback, after riding around in new crossovers looking for a new car for my mom I only started liking my outback more.
Manufacturers: I don't want 27" wheels. I want enough tire to traverse potholes. I want 16-17" wheels w SIDEWALLS
I second that. However, front brakes are getting bigger and bigger, so the rim size must follow. Most new big cars today could tolerate 17in and I find anything above unnecessary when looking at it from a function over form perspective.
I ended up buying the Outback. I use the car rather than pamper it, and I just felt the Outback would look better and last better after 3-4 years of use in the Scottish Highlands.
The Volvo was lovely inside, but impractical for a vehicle used in the countryside. Who thought pale grey was a good idea for someone that has outdoor pursuits. I went for the brown nappa leather in the Subaru, and after 4 years, it still looked great despite me jumping out the river and into the car with waders on.
I have just bought the latest Outback, and again, I had a look at alternatives, but again, I could not find anything that would handle muddy boots, large loads, dirty clothes and rough roads the way the Outback does.
The other thing I like about the Outback is that I loaded it up with fishing gear and camping gear, jumped in it and did a 900 mile road trip to France and back and it was super comfy, had good motorway manners, has a bit of authority on the rod to keep the mad French drivers at bay, and it handled all sorts of rough roads and mud on the journey.
I own Both and the Subaru is my go to car for poor weather driving. Now not as refined as my Volvo, but by God it is a hella of lot better when the road gets mucky, or ends. and for the money, there really is no comparison. Subaru is the Better off road wagon all day long!
Thanks for the comment, which volvo do you have?
@@sbellosa I actually own 3 2017 V60 XC
2015 V60 and a 2017 S60 then a porsche and 2019 Outback
@@mikebell1961 The new V60 CC is much more capable then the 2015 you have. I know because I did own them both..
Did you try tuning the traction control off? Seemed like it was cutting power? It's a nice car but it is out of my $$ range. I own an outback and love everything but the cvt.
The old XC70 instrumentation was good. I don't like the iPad interface on the new ones.
Nice review, I have known Volvos for safety. The V60 design is great. Would love to try this sometime next year when I sell my 2015 outback......sadly, I may never get this till 5years as am in Kenya:) ........I would love to have the v60 with 7 seats, would be the ultimate family hauler....Good job DrivingSportsTV
Please Please Please try the Outback up the cross cut
Outback 2.5i will not make it st 4,000 ft elevation as TFLCAR has proven in Colorado.
@@normt5463 Im pretty sure that was the normal 185 bhp outback not the turbo
@@normt5463 even with the 2,5l engine the Subaru will climb the hill! I've got B13 2007 and B14 3,6, both great on climbing and I've got to a places that never been before! 30%gravel not a problem for 165h.p. 2,5
@@gruhcho But tires are key !!
@@normt5463 TFLCAR has proven to be incompetent in most of their videos. They have no clue how to run tests.
On the V60 Cross Country.... Must Haves 1. the Plaid Seating, beautiful and unique and cheaper!! 2. The 18 inch wheels do not upgrade to the 19!1 3. you can buy a skid plate as an accessory! 4. do not buy the appearance package........ buy the scuff plate you see on this video on the side again as an accessory..... Do not buy the 4k stereo, along with leather seats......... Best configuration is 49k!! Love IT............. My Battle Wago
I am definitely in the minority. But I like these station wagons. I really liked the Regal Tour X too. This vehicle is gorgeous in my opinion. I would buy it over a Subaru any day. Well, any day I could afford to. Great video!
I own an outback and I agree the Tour x and Volvo and great looking cars but the tour x doesn't have the ground clearance to be taken off road so to me it's not quite the same category--it's more of pure sport wagon rather than lifted wagon/crossover.
K. Theodos regal tour x isn't that just an Opel insignia with a Buick badge??
Am i seeing the front Fog Lights going on and off independently during the rock garden climb? Or is it an intermittent connection in the wire harness?
Jon Rowley I also wanted to ask why the fog lights were turning on/off & left/right? I have not seen other models do that
This is due to that it is “cornering” lights for beter visibility on the sides, so they turn on and off depending on angle of the steering wheel. Most useful in city traffic for pedestrians and bicyclists
@@amadeo5414 the steering input will light up the foglight in that direction for extra lighting.
All “off road versions” of cars seam to come with large wheels and low sidewall tyres as standard I don’t understand
🤷♂️
Obviously, off road look just for marketing.... 😷
Who is going to drive a $57 000 car off road?
Golden Retriever I’m looking at these 10 years down the line when you have to also get a set of wheels from a standard car to make them useable
@@jons6125 yeah, id do the same
@@jons6125 Bought a 2016 V60CC and now looking at 17" Wheels. Taps head*
definelty the V60 CC, I have already one (D4) with Polestar chiptuning and its a great car!
Looks stunning!
This video was great - Thanks! By the way, noticed that during the rocky climb the lower lights on the front bumper were turning on (one at a time) and then off - any idea which feature is this?
These are cornering/ turning lamps that activate to illuminate the forward area you are turning into. Part of the advance package, I believe.
Interesting in seeing how the A6 Allroad will compare .... if it’s really coming to the US.
The A6 Allroad is confirmed to hit North America in 2020.
It’s not that good, the one I tested was 84k but it was less comfortable then a 40k Volvo v90. And that a6 had 190hk but if you tune a d5 v90 you get 290hp and 390ft-lb
It is coming to US per local Audi dealership. But very limited quantity in select market.
@@drivingsports I may be wrong, but isn't the A6 a competitor for the Volvo V90 CC ?
Thank you for a great review, Ryan. I really enjoyed it.
Subaru will make that climb. I have a 2012 Outback that does that regularly.
Yes, but to be fair what tires do you use ? those tires were not ideal for that situation !
@@Colin623 I use the factory tires... all weather.
@@michaels5691 Fair enough, but you haven't driven up that particular track, so you can't say with genuine confidence that the Subaru would do it until you have actually tried it, speculation doesn't make it a fact !! you could also argue that not all " all weather tires "perform the same ! maybe the tires on the Volvo are designed to be better on road than off road, when you think that it is a "Car Derived Model " ! whereas the Subaru is designed from the ground up for this purpose !! so the tires chosen as standard would probably be more likely to perform better off road than on road ! just a thought.
@@Colin623 Here is my two month old Subaru traversing the ruts. th-cam.com/video/orpbY5zfhEY/w-d-xo.html I think I can say with confidence mine will make it up that little hill. FYI, I'm also running Continental all season tires like the Volvo is using.
Michael S Volvo comes with Pirelli Scorpio All Seasons...
Great job! From what I seen it wasn’t lack of traction it was not enough power being transferred to the wheels with grip.
Yes I had the same observation-not enough torque to lift the vehicle up the grade. I own this exact car.
Great review! Have you reserved also Subaru Outback for a test before heavy snowfall comes on?
Requested, but they don’t have an XT in our region yet. 😭
Did you noticed at 13:38 and 13:58 how the fog lights turned on, left and right, respectively? Look like they turned on every time you're getting traction on each wheels OR it is a malfunction. It happened again at 14:45. At 15:14 both fog light are off and again at 15:18 left one is on. (???)
Probably related to steering agile. Supplementing the foreground illumination.
The fog lights turn on when your steering wheel turns to illuminate where you’re going. It’s a feature that’s been on a few different cars over the years.
Outback has similar feature, left and right fog light will turn on if you turn in that direction, I find this a little annoying and have my fogs always on.
Robert Jaskiewicz How is it annoying? All you see is better lighting in your direction of turn.
Also, the 2020 Outback doesn’t have that feature. In the upper trims, the headlamp projectors swing into the turn. The fog lights now stay lit or off the entire time.
@@afcgeo882 Please, could you tell me: where in my comment did you read "annoying'
I never knew they measured cargo capacity in square feet...? hmmm... 1:40
The V60 CC is the Swiss army knife of cars. It has everything you need and more.
Interesting how the car refuses to provide power to the wheel when it's most needed. Because that WASN'T 100% power. Seems like it safe locks to prevent damage or sth..
Exactly, it could do it but for some reason software limited the power, interesting. But he was trying to climb from full stop. With just a little bit of speed (momentum) it would do it easily :D
@@Saeglopur89 Might be cos its not his car so he didnt want to scratch it in anyway
@@HarryErnestoLeeRoyAs He abused it already a lot :D But sure we have to respect that :) Good car needs good treatment :)
Volvo hands down Look great and so comfortable
17:24 onwards.. Slightly disappointed in commentary. There is clearly grip, the front right is doing nothing with it.. This means that the very expensive volvo cannot transfer power to the right place. Again I take my hat off to the engineers at Subaru.
Well its using haldex 4x4 system similar to Fords or VWs. You cant expect Subaru performance from that thing.
I have had accouple of Subaru's and I now own a Volvo.... The Volvo is the best car I have ever owned and I will pass it down to my children to drive one day.
The moment you said Volvo has 8-speed AT it was clear that Volvo is better, any transmission is better than Subaru CVT, I know because I used it in 2017 Outback.
I am waiting for you to take the Forester up there or, why not, the Outback. This Volvo is thrilling. Very upscale and refined. Nice vídeo Mr. Douthit.
Thanks for watching! The very first vehicle we took up this road was the 2019 Forester. Unfortunately, it was before we had really refined the course so it’s a throwaway shot. You can see it in our Subaru Dual-XMode explained video. We’re working on getting an Outback XT up here, which uses a similar system. But no ETA yet.
Nobody cross shops these. If you are spending 39K why would you look at something that cost almost 60k. The Subaru is obtainable by most middle class families the Volvo is not
Correct.
Just because someone can afford 60k, doesn't mean they wanna spend that much. Definitely a competitor, although i prefer volvo
BBD Design Stop it. It doesn’t matter want the brand is. If my limit is 40k than I am not looking at cars that cost 60k. Stay in your lane!!!
BBD Design people are going to Subaru from Volvo?
That’s true. They’re considered a luxury brand so you’re gonna that premium. Personally I would never spend that kinda money on a car. But they are sure nice!
Hello everyone,
In Greece now the price of subaru outback with 2.5 engine with 150 hp the only option costs 60000 euro while volvo v60 cross country with 2.0 diesel engine with 197 hp also only option cost less than 55000 euro, so if I had the money I will chose the volvo
Good review and that’s what I wanted to see...a real driver testing it’s capabilities until it can’t ...which was more about the tires then having adequate power and vehicle traction system. This video helped with making a decision.
Volvo