From the B-pillar forward, the XC60 could be mistaken for the bigger SUV. The upright fascia houses a similar grille, flanked by high-mounted headlights adorned with Volvo’s Thor’s Hammer sideways-T LED light graphic. The transverse-engine XC60 self-consciously sucks in its front overhang, and the hood traces a relatively straight line to the base of the windshield.
Pros Classy looks inside and out, roomier rear seat, improved handling, lots of standard equipment.
Cons Nervous steering, no front-drive model at launch.
The 2018 Volvo XC60 ranked #7 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Volvo XC60 has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 17 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Impressive list of standard and available safety features Smooth, comfortable ride Outstanding towing rating Generous overall cargo area
Cons Enthusiast drivers should look elsewhere Low predicted reliability
With the new 2018 XC60, Volvo has cached all the XC90’s good data, and trimmed some fat from its code.
Pros Superlative safety equipment Interior is achingly on-trend Eager turbo-4 performance Excellent packaging Plug-in hybrid option
Cons Exterior’s a little me-too Lifeless steering in most modes Hefty in most editions
The 2019 BMW X3 ranked #6 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the BMW X3 has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Powerful engines Nimble handling Spacious, supportive seats Above-average cargo capacity
Cons Rivals are more opulent inside Above-average starting price
The X3 also becomes a more full-fledged member of the BMW family with its upgraded interior. And at a time when some of the brand’s passenger-car offerings have strayed from BMW’s historically strong dynamics, the new X3 makes an encouraging showing there as well.
Pros Chassis tuning like BMWs of old, improved interior, plenty of passenger and cargo space.
Cons Imprecise variable-ratio steering, goofy electronic shifter, the entry-level four pales next to the six-cylinder.
The 2019 BMW X3 is a versatile compact crossover that delivers on rising expectations.
Pros Handsome exterior Responsive and sharp powertrains Standard automatic emergency braking this year Good outward vision Ample interior room
Cons Can easily reach more than $60,000 CarPlay with a subscription? Really? Conservative compared to competitors No electrified version yet Relatively heavy steering
