Safety first: subaru forester vs volvo xc60 – which suv protects better?
What To Know
- When it comes to choosing a versatile and capable SUV, the Subaru Forester and the Volvo XC60 emerge as two formidable contenders.
- The Subaru Forester and the Volvo XC60 are both excellent choices for adventure-seekers who demand a versatile and capable SUV.
- The Forester offers a more rugged and off-road-oriented experience, while the XC60 provides a premium and refined driving experience with advanced safety and technology features.
When it comes to choosing a versatile and capable SUV, the Subaru Forester and the Volvo XC60 emerge as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of ruggedness, refinement, and advanced technology. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key aspects to help you make an informed decision between the Subaru Forester and the Volvo XC60.
Performance and Handling
Subaru Forester:
- Powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, generating 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system provides excellent traction and stability
- X-Mode with Hill Descent Control enhances off-road capabilities
- Offers a smooth and responsive ride, even on rough terrain
Volvo XC60:
- Available with a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and a hybrid option
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Torque Vectoring enhances cornering performance
- Adaptive chassis with adjustable drive modes optimizes handling and comfort
- Delivers a refined and composed driving experience both on- and off-road
Interior and Features
Subaru Forester:
- Spacious and versatile cabin with ample headroom and legroom
- User-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Standard features include heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a power liftgate
- Offers a large cargo area with 30 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats
Volvo XC60:
- Premium and luxurious cabin with high-quality materials and sophisticated design
- Advanced infotainment system with a large touchscreen and intuitive interface
- Standard features include leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Boasts a generous cargo space of 33.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats
Safety and Reliability
Subaru Forester:
- Received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
- Standard safety features include EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking
- Known for its excellent reliability and low maintenance costs
Volvo XC60:
- Awarded the Top Safety Pick+ designation by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
- Features a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including City Safety with Autobrake, Blind Spot Information System, and Cross Traffic Alert
- Volvo has a reputation for producing some of the safest vehicles on the market
Fuel Economy and Cost
Subaru Forester:
- EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway
- Base price starting around $26,000
Volvo XC60:
- Fuel economy varies depending on the powertrain, with the hybrid option achieving up to 40 mpg in the city
- Base price starting around $44,000
Off-Road Capabilities
Subaru Forester:
- Standard Symmetrical AWD system and X-Mode provide exceptional off-road traction
- Ground clearance of 8.7 inches
- Off-road-tuned suspension and underbody skid plates enhance durability
Volvo XC60:
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Torque Vectoring provides good off-road performance
- Ground clearance of 8.5 inches
- Optional Air Suspension with Hill Descent Control improves off-road capabilities
Technology and Connectivity
Subaru Forester:
- Standard infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Available features include a premium Harman Kardon sound system and a Wi-Fi hotspot
- Offers a range of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist
Volvo XC60:
- Advanced infotainment system with a large touchscreen and intuitive interface
- Standard features include a premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system and a head-up display
- Offers a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control with Pilot Assist and lane centering
Which SUV Is Right for You?
The Subaru Forester and the Volvo XC60 are both excellent choices for adventure-seekers who demand a versatile and capable SUV. The Forester offers a more rugged and off-road-oriented experience, while the XC60 provides a premium and refined driving experience with advanced safety and technology features.
Consider the Subaru Forester if:
- You prioritize off-road capabilities and value reliability
- You prefer a more affordable and fuel-efficient option
- You seek a spacious and practical cabin
Consider the Volvo XC60 if:
- You desire a luxurious and sophisticated cabin
- You prioritize advanced safety and technology features
- You are willing to pay a premium for a premium driving experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has a higher safety rating?
A: The Volvo XC60 has a higher safety rating from the IIHS, earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation.
Q: Which SUV has a larger cargo area?
A: The Volvo XC60 has a slightly larger cargo area, offering 33.3 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats compared to the Forester’s 30 cubic feet.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Volvo XC60 offers better fuel economy, especially with the hybrid option, which achieves up to 40 mpg in the city.