Driving is believing!

THE chances are when you think of Sweden you think of meatballs, leggy blondes and reliable cars that are safe but hardly stylish … well, think again.

The girls and food may remain the same, but Volvo’s XC60 is clear proof of Scandinavian sophistication and a testament to the fact that a safe car needn’t be a boring one.

This crossover SUV is sleek and stylish, seamlessly blending the capability of an off-roader with the comfort and handling of a sedan.

Its exterior is attractive and aerodynamic from all angles. The bonnet boasts creased character lines that add some visual appeal and bulk.

The XC60’s interior is a sight to behold. It is comfortable and has all the gadgets you could want to make your driving experience as dynamic as possible.

In terms of infotainment there are a number of things worth bragging about on this model. Firstly, the centre stack is angled slightly toward the driver which makes everything clear to see and easily accessible.

Some of the features worth noting on the model I drove include cruise control, Bluetooth, CD, radio, MP3 player, satellite navigation, blind spot warning and a reverse camera, which makes parking a doddle.

Since I had previously never driven a Volvo, the layout took some getting used to but after a while everything seemed like second nature.

As for space, there is plenty of it in this model. I had lots of leg room in the backseat too and the boot boasts a staggering amount of space for the weekly supermarket trip to check out Bambi’s Best Bargains.

Under the bonnet is a 3.0-litre, 304bhp engine that offers a staggering amount of power. Although this model probably won’t be spotted drag racing at the BIC, as a family vehicle it more than does the job.

Because of the suspension and chassis, this model handles remarkably well, even at speed. It held the road very well and gave a reassuring drive … you’ll have to test drive it yourself to really understand what I mean, driving is believing.

Cornering is smooth and comfortable and, because of its crossover DNA, it’s easy to think that you’re driving a smaller car. Despite its size, nothing seems heavy or cumbersome, which is a testament to the Scandinavian automaker.

As mentioned, Volvo is a brand renowned for its safety credentials, which are almost too numerous to mention. The model I drove boasted electronic stability traction control, security system ABS brakes, brake assist, dual front impact airbags, dual front side impact airbags, overhead airbag, occupant sensing airbag, an immobiliser, Blind Spot Information System (BSIS) + Cross Traffic Alert.

BSIS is a great feature that I personally feel all vehicles should have. It basically uses two multiple-beam radar modules, the same used with cross-traffic alert, which are packaged in the rear quarter panels – one per side. The radar identifies when a vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone and illuminates an indicator light on the corresponding sideview mirror, providing a warning that a vehicle is approaching.

Another safety feature I really liked was the Intelligent Driver Information System (IDIS). IDIS helps the driver prioritise the information in the car depending on the current driving situation. For example, IDIS delays incoming phone calls or other non-essential information if the driving situation is busy, e.g. during acceleration or a manoeuvre. As such, it functions pretty much like an electronic personal assistant ... but won’t spit in your coffee if you’re too demanding!

Other safety features in the XC60 include City Safety (low speed collision avoidance system), side impact protection system, park assist pilot and whiplash protection front seats.

The model I drove costs BD18,500 inclusive of service package for three years / 60,000kms, warranty: five years unlimited mileage and road assist.

For details, visit the Motor City Sanad showroom, call 17621162 or visit www.motorcity.com.bh