The Volvo V60, particularly in its Cross Country guise, has long been admired for its blend of Scandinavian design, luxurious interiors, and a practical wagon body style. For those seeking an understated yet sophisticated alternative to mainstream SUVs, Volvo has often presented a compelling option. However, recent experiences, including a test drive of the 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country, reveal a persistent issue that casts a shadow over the brand’s appeal: recurring electronic malfunctions. While the V60 retains many of Volvo’s traditional strengths, these technological hiccups raise serious questions about long-term reliability and overall owner satisfaction.
Image depicting the 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country in motion, highlighting its Scandinavian design.
Lingering Electronic Issues: A Cause for Concern
During a recent test of the 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country, an all-too-familiar problem resurfaced: the dreaded frozen center display screen. After a seemingly routine over-the-air software update, the infotainment system, the nerve center of modern car controls, decided to completely seize up. This wasn’t a minor glitch; it was a full system freeze, rendering navigation, media, climate controls, and vehicle settings inaccessible. Even the physical volume knob, a supposed bastion of analog reliability, became unresponsive.
This incident is not isolated. Across multiple Volvo models tested in recent years, a disconcerting pattern of electronic gremlins has emerged. Out of numerous vehicles tested, a disproportionate number of Volvos have exhibited frozen screens and other digital malfunctions. This consistent failure rate is not just an inconvenience; it erodes trust in the brand’s reliability and raises concerns about the long-term ownership experience. Imagine being stranded on a busy freeway with a malfunctioning infotainment system, unable to adjust climate controls or access crucial vehicle information. This is the unsettling reality that potential Volvo owners must consider.
Close-up image of the 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country front grille, showcasing its modern Volvo styling.
Beyond the Glitches: Other Drawbacks
While the electronic issues are the most significant concern, the Volvo V60 Cross Country also presents other minor, yet noteworthy, drawbacks.
Subpar Visibility: Backup Camera at Night and Screen Limitations
The backup camera’s performance at night is disappointingly dim, a recurring issue noted in other Volvo models. To compensate, drivers often need to apply the brakes to illuminate the area behind the vehicle with the brake lights. Furthermore, despite the expansive center display screen, the system does not allow for simultaneous viewing of the rear-view and top-view cameras. This limitation is perplexing, especially when more affordable vehicles offer this feature, highlighting a missed opportunity for enhanced driver convenience and safety in the Volvo V60.
Annoying Details: Volume Knob, Slow Windows, Climate Control
Several minor annoyances detract from the overall premium feel. The volume knob, while physically present, produces an audible clicking sound even at moderate speeds, a detail that feels out of place in a luxury vehicle. The power windows operate with an unusually slow pace, adding an unnecessary delay to everyday actions. The climate control fan, offering five levels, presents another quirk. Levels three through five provide virtually identical airflow, effectively reducing the usable fan speed settings to just two distinct levels and a “full blast” mode.
Image highlighting the interior of the 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country, focusing on the dashboard and center console.
The Upsides: Still a Volvo at Heart
Despite these criticisms, the Volvo V60 Cross Country retains many of the desirable qualities that have long defined the Volvo brand.
Classic Scandinavian Design and Luxurious Interior
The exterior design embodies Volvo’s signature Scandinavian minimalism, presenting an elegant and timeless aesthetic. The interior is equally impressive, boasting a luxurious ambiance with high-quality materials, including supple leather and tasteful metal accents. While the volume knob’s click is a minor flaw, the overall cabin environment exudes sophistication and comfort.
Comfortable and Supportive Seating
Volvo continues to excel in seat design, and the V60 is no exception. The seats are exceptionally comfortable and supportive, making long journeys a pleasure. This focus on ergonomic excellence is a hallmark of the brand and remains a significant selling point.
Excellent Headlights and Comfort Features
Volvo’s reputation for best-in-class headlights and seat/steering wheel warmers remains well-deserved. These features enhance both safety and comfort, particularly in colder climates, and contribute to the V60’s appeal as a practical and luxurious vehicle.
Image showcasing the comfortable and supportive seats of the 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Engine and Transmission: Smooth but Unremarkable
The V60 Cross Country is equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the powertrain delivers adequate performance for daily driving, it’s not particularly inspiring. Fuel economy during testing averaged around 23 MPG, which is unremarkable for a relatively small four-cylinder engine, especially when compared to larger, more powerful engines in competing vehicles. The engine is generally smooth, and the transmission shifts cleanly, but occasional throttle response issues at low speeds or from a standstill can result in jerky acceleration.
Ride Comfort and Handling: Prioritizing Comfort over Agility
As expected from a Volvo, ride comfort is a priority. The V60 Cross Country, with its raised suspension, excels at absorbing road imperfections and providing a smooth and composed ride. However, handling is not a strong suit. The steering lacks feedback and feels somewhat vague, even in the “firm” setting. While the Cross Country version offers an off-road mode and increased ground clearance, its capabilities are limited to light-duty trails and gravel roads, not challenging off-road terrain.
Exterior image of the 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country, highlighting its wagon silhouette and raised ride height.
Conclusion: Style and Substance Compromised by Technology
The 2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country presents a mixed bag. It retains the classic Volvo attributes of stylish design, a luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, the persistent electronic issues are a significant detractor. In a modern luxury vehicle, reliable technology is not a luxury; it’s a fundamental expectation. Until Volvo addresses these recurring malfunctions, it’s difficult to recommend the V60 or other new Volvo models without significant reservations. Potential buyers should carefully consider whether the inherent risks of electronic glitches outweigh the V60’s undeniable stylistic and comfort advantages. For now, a cautious approach to the Volvo brand is warranted, awaiting demonstrable improvements in vehicle electronics reliability.
2025 Volvo V60 Cross Country B5 AWD Ultra
As-tested price: $64,135
Pros: Classic Volvo exterior and interior design, comfortable ride, supportive seats.
Cons: Unreliable electronics, subpar backup camera visibility, minor interior annoyances, unremarkable engine performance.
