Heading Down Under next month with a line-up of seven models all sending their respective power to all four wheels via a Aisin-sourced eight-speed Geartronic gearbox, the XC60, apart from its new family styling, drops the previous Ford P3 platform for Volvo's Scalable Platform Architecture (SPA), as well as the four, five and six-cylinder engines for the single 2.0-litre Drive-E petrol and turbodiesel mill.

Available in three trim levels, the base Momentum and mid-range Inscription will both be offered with the T5 and D4 engines, the former producing 187 kW and 350 Nm of torque, and the latter 140 kW and 400 Nm.

The top-spec R-Design meanwhile packs 173 kW and 480 Nm of torque in the D5, 235 kW and 400 Nm in the turbo-and supercharged T6, and a colossal 300 kW and 640 Nm in the T8 plug-in hybrid, Volvo claims will hit 100 km/h from a standstill in 5.3 seconds and consume unleaded at a rate of 2.1 L/100 km.

In terms of standard equipment, notable features on the Momentum are dual-zone climate control, the XC90 derived 12.3-inch Sensus touchscreen infotainment system with satellite navigation, Blueooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 19-inch alloy wheels with pressure sensors, rain sense wipers, keyless entry, automatic tailgate and dual USB ports.

As to be expected, safety equipment is extensive and includes 360-degree cameras, Collision Mitigation Support, Semi-Automated Parking, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Sport Warning, Rear Collision Warning, Front and rear parking sensors, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control.

Moving one up, the Inscription adds Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving, Heads-Up Display, Adaptive Cruise Control, quad-zone climate control and 20-inch alloy wheels. Capping the range off, the R-Design comes fitted with a model specific bodykit, sport seats, 21-inch alloy wheels and Sport tuned chassis.

Final pricing and spec for South Africa is yet to be announced, but expect local versions to be somewhat more pricey than the Aussie version.

Australian pricing