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Overview

Handsomely styled and thoughtfully designed, the 2021 Volvo XC60 offers a unique Scandinavian take on the compact luxury SUV.

A trio of four-cylinder power-trains is offered—the turbocharged T5 is standard, while a turbocharged-and-supercharged version called T6 and a plug-in hybrid T8 variant are optional—all providing ample power and decent fuel efficiency.

The XC60's upscale cabin puts real pressure on rivals such as the Audi Q5, the BMW X3, and the Mercedes-Benz GLC-class, and its suite of standard driver-assistance features gives it an edge in the safety department.

A 12.3-inch digital gauge display and a vertically oriented 9.0-inch infotainment screen are both standard, as well, and provide plenty of options for connectivity.

The infotainment's slow startup, though, is a rare annoyance in an otherwise exquisite package.

What's New for 2021?

The XC60 receives several new standard features for 2021, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, LED headlights, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and front parking sensors, as well as a new 19-inch wheel design and power-folding exterior mirrors with an auto-dimming function.

Volvo has eliminated AM radio on the XC60, but fans of the format will still be able to listen via a provided app, TuneIn, through the infotainment system.

The R-Design model receives a blacked-out exterior trim treatment, and models equipped with the T8 plug-in hybrid power-train get the Recharge name to align them with the all-electric XC40 Recharge SUV that launched this year.

The luxurious Inscription trim receives a new Lounge package, which adds massaging front seats, a Nubuck headliner, and leather-wrapped sun visors.

Sadly, Volvo has replaced a favorite feature, Bursting Blue, in the XC60's color palette with Savile Grey Metallic.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Momentum: $42,000 (est)
R-Design: $48,000 (est)
Inscription: $48,000 (est)
Polestar Engineered: $71,000 (est)

I like the T6 power-train's peppy performance, so the R-Design T6 is my recommendation. The extra cost versus the base Momentum trim is worth it here, with all sorts of features becoming standard.

The R-Design comes with a Harman/Kardon audio system, in-dash navigation, a power-operated rear lift-gate, and four-zone automatic climate control.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Volvo offers three different power-trains—T5, T6, and T8—in the XC60, all mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard but upgrading to either the T6 or T8 power-trains adds all-wheel drive.

Under the hood of base T5-badged XC60s is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 250 horsepower. Its 6.4-second zero-to-60-mph time is adequate but unremarkable.

The T6 is powered by the same turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder as the T5, but a supercharger is added for more power. With 316 ponies in its stable, it feels peppier and its performance is measurably quicker.

The plug-in hybrid T8 version borrows the T6's engine and pairs it with a set of electric motors for a total of 400 horsepower or 415 in the Polestar Engineered model.

The XC60 takes corners well, feels tied to the road while cruising, and changes directions with confidence, but doesn't inspire hooliganism like the Porsche Macan.

The ride can feel a touch harsh when driving over rougher stretches of road, but on smooth sections it's agreeable and calm.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

According to research, The T5 and the T6 XC60s exceeds their EPA estimates with 29- and 28-mpg, respectively; however, so did the Lexus RX350, which sailed on to a 31-mpg.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

With interior styling and rich materials that mirror more expensive Volvo. The quiet, comfortable cabin also provides adult-sized accommodations in both rows.

Clean lines and high-quality materials add a distinctly Scandinavian flavor to the XC60's cabin—and I'd expect nothing less from a modern Volvo.

Decent cargo-hauling capability puts the XC60 mid-pack among its rivals; with its rear seats folded, It fits 20 carry-on suitcases. Interior cubby storage is limited, and the sole cargo-area bin is among the smallest.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system Volvo calls Sensus Connect is standard on the XC60 and comes with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability.

Bluetooth connectivity and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot powered by a 4G LTE data connection are also offered across the range. Navigation with real-time traffic and weather updates is available on the base Momentum trim and standard on all other models.

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Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The XC60 received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and snagged a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS).

Volvo's commitment to safety is evident in the XC60, with driver-assistance features such as automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist made standard across the range.

Key safety features include:

Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
Available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode
2021 Volvo XC60
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Of its rivals in this segment, the XC60 has an appealing warranty policy. Three years of scheduled maintenance is a convenience that Volvo buyers won't need to pay for separately, either.

Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
Power-train warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
Hybrid components are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles
Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles.
2021 Volvo XC60

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Thursday, September 3, 2020

2021 Ford Mustang Review

Overview

The Ford Mustang family has a legendary history and is populated by models with diverse personalities. This year, that history is recalled by the revival of the Mach 1 moniker, first seen on the 1969 'Stang.

The 2021 Mustang will still come as a coupe or a convertible, and its stable of high-performance offerings will be as full as ever.

Whether it’s the turbocharged four-cylinder Eco-Boost or the V-8-powered GT, every version of the original pony car can be armed with track weaponry to challenge its Chevy Camaro or Dodge Challenger counterparts.

The Ford's beautiful bodywork, vast personalization options, and practical interior also make it desirable to folks who care less about lap times and more about sporty everyday transportation. And that's why the Mustang continues to be an icon: it offers something for everyone.

What's New for 2021?

While Ford hasn't unveiled all of the updates it'll make to the 2021 Mustang lineup, the company has announced that it is resurrecting the Mach 1.

The limited-edition model packs a 480-hp version of Ford's 5.0-liter V-8 that pairs with a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The new Mach 1's heritage-inspired appearance includes a unique front end and black stripes on the hood and body-sides. The car also inherits aerodynamic elements, cooling upgrades, and other performance hardware from the Shelby GT350 and GT500.

Those who want even wider 19-inch wheels with an exclusive design and aerodynamic pieces that further increase down-force can opt for the Mach 1's Handling package—but it's only available with the manual gearbox.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Eco-Boost: $28,000 (est.)
GT: $37,000 (est.)
Bullitt: $49,000 (est.)
Mach 1: $50,000 (est.)

The Blue Oval hasn't announced pricing for any 2021 Mustang, and the new Mach 1 isn't expected to go on sale until next spring, but I don't expect sticker prices will increase much from the outgoing model year.

Likewise, I'd still recommend the V-8-powered Bullitt model (unless Ford replaces it with the Mach 1).

Not only is its exclusive Dark Highland Green paint unmistakable, but the Bullitt has a phenomenal balance of comfort and performance.

Its most desirable standard features include black 19-inch wheels, unique exterior details, a configurable digital gauge cluster, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a leather upholstery.

Every Bullitt also has an additional 20 horsepower (480 total) versus the regular GT models, and it has equipment pulled from the Level 1 Performance Pack that makes it more engaging to drive.

That means additional bracing, upgraded front brakes, special suspension tuning, stickier summer tires, and more. The Bullitt would also have the optional adaptive dampers.

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Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Don't be fooled by its cylinder count—the standard turbocharged Eco-Boost four-cylinder has enough punch to embarrass V-8 Mustangs of old.

Likewise, the optional High-Performance package adds a more melodic and responsive Eco-Boost engine derived from the defunct Ford Focus RS.

The GT models are motivated by a 460-hp V-8 with an optional active exhaust that trumpets a thunderous roar. Both of these compelling engines pair with a standard six-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic that makes the Mustang quicker than before.

The V-8 version is also available with a transformative package (called Performance Pack Level 2) that adds track-ready equipment courtesy of the Shelby GT350.

The optional Eco-Boost Handling package also delivers racetrack readiness to the four-cylinder coupe. Still, the Bullitt model may be the best all-around Mustang for sale today.

Its enhanced V-8 engine makes an extra 20 horsepower (480 total), and it includes all the top-shelf performance parts available.

This latest Mustang generation brought with it a much-needed independent rear suspension, which replaced the archaic solid rear axle.

The switch-up improves its handling and takes its ride quality to another level. Even with the less powerful engines, the Mustang's modernized chassis delivers a comfortable and controlled driving experience.

For added sportiness, there is an optional Performance package for Eco-Boost and GT models. The electrically assisted steering is appropriately light in Comfort mode and nicely weighted in the other two. The Mustang's brake pedal has a firm, but it's easier to apply smoothly at higher speeds.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

While the EPA hasn't released fuel-economy figures for the 2021 Mustang lineup, I don't expect the ratings to change from last year. The 2020 V-8 Mustang has competitive EPA estimates and real-world fuel economy.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Mustang interior is better than ever, with an evolutionary design that harks back to Mustangs of old while managing to be fully functional and livable.

While it's available with premium features such as heated and cooled front seats, its mediocre plastics and cramped Headless Horseman–only back seat are demerits.

Stellar performance combined with impressive cargo space makes the Mustang a high-performance daily driver.

It manages the second-most carry-on suitcases and has the most interior storage space among rivals. The back seat stows by pulling a strap and folds easily by hand.

Should you need to transport up to 12 carry-on bags, the Mustang can do so.

Ford Pushes Next-Gen Mustang Launch To 2021

Infotainment and Connectivity

Ford's optional Sync 3 infotainment system has a clean design and a simple interface. While it's not as responsive or robust as some rivals, it does come with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a kickin' stereo.

The Mustang is available with a Wi-Fi hotspot. Ford Sync Connect, which allows users to control and monitor their vehicle through a smartphone app, is included as standard.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2021 Mustang hasn't been crash tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

However, the 2020 model earned a five-star rating from NHTSA, but its ratings are average from the IIHS.

The Mustang is also available with more driver-assistance technology than any rival pony car, so you can go faster and feel safer. That's how driver assists work, right?

Key safety features include:

Available forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
Available blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert
2021 Ford Mustang
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Mustang has a solid but average warranty. However, unlike BMW and Chevy, Ford doesn't provide complimentary scheduled maintenance.

Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
Power-train warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
No complimentary scheduled maintenance.

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Wednesday, September 2, 2020

2020 Mercedes-AMG C63 Review

Overview

It's getting harder to find a car in the compact-luxury class with ridiculous levels of performance. So we should all be happy for the existence of the 2020 Mercedes-AMG C63, the hot-rod version of the Mercedes-Benz C-class.

It's available as a sedan, coupe, or convertible, and every one of them comes with a twin-turbocharged V-8 engine hand-built by engineers in Affalterbach, Germany.

The regular C63 makes 469 horsepower, while the C63 S is tuned to make 503 hp. Either way, this car gathers speed in gobs and promises to bring excitement to your humdrum commute.

We could do without the harsh ride, but the C63 is so much fun you might not care.

What's New for 2020?

There are a few equipment changes on the 2020 Mercedes-AMG C63. Sedans and coupes now have keyless access and hands-free trunk-lid control as standard.

All 2020 C63 convertibles come with the Air-cap feature, which uses deflectors to keep the open-air cockpit warm or cool, and power-folding side-view mirrors. Iridium Silver Metallic is a new exterior color.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Sedan: $69,095
Coupe: $70,895
Cabriolet: $78,295
S sedan: $76,695
S coupe: $78,495
S cabriolet: $85,895

While you might prefer the style of the coupe or convertible, my money would go to the sedan. It's lighter than the coupe, which has a full-length panoramic sunroof that lets in sunlight but packs on pounds.

Plus, I like the understated appeal of a fast four-door. It's hard not to want the more potent C63 S model, but the actual performance differences are slight. Only the S has the nine-step AMG Traction Control system, but I found it too intrusive in the C63 coupe.

So it's not a must-have. Instead, I'd get the standard C63 sedan and add the Exterior Lighting package to get adaptive LED headlights and the AMG Performance front seats, because they are exceptionally supportive.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG C63 and C63 S have a hand-built, twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine. In the C63, it makes 469 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque.

The C63 S ups the performance ante with 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. Both engines use a nine-speed automatic with rear-wheel drive. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph on the regular C63 and 180 mph on the S.

The C63 S goes from zero to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds and finishes through the quarter-mile in 11.9 seconds at 122 mph; In Lightning Lap 2019, a C63 S coupe turned in a 2:57.1 lap, All C63s come standard with an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential and an AMG Ride Control suspension with adaptive dampers.

Dynamic engine mounts are included on C63 S variants. Handling is excellent. Equipped with summer tires, the C63 S manages 1.02 g's of lateral acceleration on the skid-pad and brakes from 70 mph to a stop in just 157 feet. This capability comes at the price of comfort, as the ride is harsh over rough pavement.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

There's no difference in EPA fuel economy between the C63 and C63 S, but there are differences among the body styles. The sedan is rated at 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway ratings.

The coupe and cabriolet are both EPA-rated at 17 mpg in the city, but the coupe has a 26-mpg highway rating versus 24 for the convertible.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Black faux-leather/microfiber upholstery is standard in the regular-strength C63, while the S models have leather seats. Both versions get a choice of wood and aluminum interior accents.

I am a big fan of the available AMG Performance seats, which have a ventilation feature. Although you can load up on technology in the cockpit, this is an elegant car at heart, and both the materials and the ambience are in keeping with the high asking price.

The C63 sedan has a 12.6-cubic-foot trunk, while the coupe has a smaller 10.5-cubic-foot cargo hold. Both have a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat.

The C63 cabriolet has a standard power-operated soft top (available in four colors) and offers 8.8 cubic feet of cargo space when the top is up. Its rear seats fold in a 50/50 split.

2019 Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe | Top Speed

Infotainment and Connectivity

The standard setup in the 2020 Mercedes-AMG features a 10.3-inch infotainment interface with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration and two USB ports.

A Burmester surround-sound audio system is also standard, as is a six-month trial for SiriusXM satellite radio. Options include factory navigation; a customizable, 12.3-inch digital instrument panel; and a head-up display.

You might also want to consider the optional AMG Drive Unit, which provides quick-access buttons on the steering wheel to adjust the car's many drive-train and chassis settings.

Another option is AMG Track Pace, which lets you store performance data from your vehicle in the infotainment interface when you're driving on a road course.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The AMG version of the C-class hasn't been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), although the regular Benz-branded 2019 C-class managed to snag a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS.

Every C63 comes equipped with basic safety features such as a forward-collision system and blind-spot monitoring.