PM Garage: Our opinions on two cars we’ve cruised in, swerved, braked and parked.

/ XC60 T6 Geartronic AWD R-Design

IGUESS IT was inevitable that sooner or later I’d test-drive a car that I could also control using my cell phone. The new XC60 was the first. The Volvo On Call app gives you a degree of control over certain features of the car, not least of which the ability to start it remotely, no matter where you are in the world

(as long as your phone and the car have internet coverage). After downloading the app, I signed in, completed the set-up process – which wasn’t difficult at all – and was then ready to go. Activating the climate control, locking or unlocking the doors, and sounding the horn were all quite useful to be able to do remotely, especially the latter when I forgot where I’d parked at the mall.

Notifications on my phone also popped up occasionally telling me if I’d forgotten to lock the car, which, if you’re familiar with my personality, I appreciated.

Sure, it’s subjective, but for me Volvo is always right on the money with the styling and choices of its vehicles’ exterior aesthetics, as well as the interior ergonomics, materials used, finishes and feature integration. What isn’t subjective are the enduring elevated levels of passenger comfort and safety. The new XC60’s long bonnet, aggressive front spoilers with low underbite profile and the sweeping overall silhouette all coalesce succinctly, expressing swiftness and a striking road presence. The 21-inch two-tone black and silver wheels with 255/40 tyres amplify this, but I wouldn’t want to be the one dipping into my wallet to replace them. At the rear, the boldest statement comes from the familiar tall and angular Volvo tail lights that wrap around the corners and up the pillars. Somehow the newest interpretation of the XC60 seems like a whole lot more car than it was before.

All you could really covet in a luxury SUV is accounted for inside, including seat warmers for all occupants, multi-zone climate control, a full quiver of driver aids and accessories, and an infotainment centre with premium Bowers & Wilkins sound. The R-Design optional extras in the car I tested only served to enhance an already distinguished vehicle.

Opinions on cars we’ve driven