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Volvo V60 vs VW Golf Variant – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Volvo V60 or VW Golf Variant fits your lifestyle better.

V60 @ media.volvocars.com

Volvo V60 vs VW Golf Variant: A Comprehensive Comparison

In the competitive world of compact wagons, the Volvo V60 and VW Golf Variant stand out as two prominent choices for those seeking a versatile and stylish ride. Let's dive into a detailed comparison of these two models, focusing on their technical specifications, innovations, and overall appeal.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen

Performance and Engine Options

The Volvo V60 offers a range of engine options, including petrol mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and diesel mild-hybrid variants. The power output varies from 197 HP to an impressive 455 HP for the top-performing model. This range allows buyers to select the level of performance that best suits their needs, whether it's the economical option or high-performance driving.

On the other hand, the VW Golf Variant is equipped with petrol, petrol mild-hybrid, and diesel engines, with power outputs ranging from 116 HP to a robust 333 HP. The Golf's highest-performing variant, similar to the V60, caters to power enthusiasts, making it an attractive option in the segment.

Both models come with either automatic transmissions or manual selections, with the Volvo primarily featuring a dual-clutch automatic, while the Golf offers more flexibility with both options.

V60 @ media.volvocars.com

Fuel Efficiency and Consumption

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the VW Golf Variant shines with consumption figures as low as 4.4 L/100km. This makes it particularly appealing for those concerned with economy and environmental impact. Its CO2 emissions are notable as well, with figures starting around 115 g/km, placing it favorably within the eco-friendly bracket.

The Volvo V60, while slightly higher in consumption (starting around 5.9 L/100km for hybrid models), still presents competitive CO2 emissions starting at 140 g/km. The addition of its plug-in hybrid option allows for an electric range of 92 km, which can significantly enhance daily usability for urban drivers.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen

Dimensions and Interior Space

In terms of size, the Volvo V60 measures 4,778 mm in length with a width of 1,850 mm, while the VW Golf Variant is slightly shorter at 4,631 mm and 1,789 mm wide. The V60's interior offers a trunk capacity of 519 liters, which is spacious for families or active lifestyles. However, the Golf Variant excels with a larger trunk capacity of 611 liters, allowing for extra versatility when transporting cargo.

Both vehicles accommodate five passengers comfortably, making them excellent choices for families or those needing to transport friends and luggage.

V60 @ media.volvocars.com

Safety and Innovations

Volvo has long been synonymous with safety, and the V60 continues that legacy. The car is equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision avoidance systems. Notably, Volvo's emphasis on safety extends into intelligent driver support systems, which help reduce the risk of accidents on the road.

Meanwhile, the VW Golf Variant also boasts a plethora of safety technologies, including front assist, blind-spot monitoring, and emergency braking. Both models feature high-quality infotainment systems, with the V60 leaning towards a sleek, minimalist design, and the Golf Variant offering user-friendly functionalities and connectivity options such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen

The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

Ultimately, choosing between the Volvo V60 and VW Golf Variant depends on your priorities. If performance and safety are your top concerns, the V60's robust engine lineup and advanced safety features are hard to beat. Conversely, for those seeking efficiency, flexibility, and a spacious interior, the VW Golf Variant stands out with its proven reliability and practicality.

As the automotive landscape continues to evolve with a focus on sustainability and innovation, both the Volvo V60 and VW Golf Variant offer compelling options for modern drivers looking for a blend of style, performance, and utility.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

V60 @ media.volvocars.com

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

VW Golf Variant has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 26100 £, while the Volvo V60 costs 41600 £. That’s a price difference of around 15510 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Volvo V60 manages with 2.40 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the VW Golf Variant with 4.30 L. The difference is about 1.90 L per 100 km.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Volvo V60 has a distinct edge – offering 455 HP compared to 333 HP. That’s roughly 122 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Volvo V60 is slight quicker – completing the sprint in 4.60 s, while the VW Golf Variant takes 4.80 s. That’s about 0.20 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Golf Variant performs noticeable better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Volvo V60 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 70 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Volvo V60 pulls convincingly stronger with 709 Nm compared to 420 Nm. That’s about 289 Nm difference.

V60 @ media.volvocars.com

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Golf Variant is distinct lighter – 1366 kg compared to 1734 kg. The difference is around 368 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Golf Variant offers somewhat more room – 611 L compared to 519 L. That’s a difference of about 92 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Golf Variant performs to a small extent better – up to 1642 L, which is about 211 L more than the Volvo V60.

When it comes to payload, VW Golf Variant hardly perceptible takes the win – 547 kg compared to 506 kg. That’s a difference of about 41 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Volvo V60 proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Volvo V60 is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £41,600
228902_New_Volvo_V60_D4_Inscription_Denim_Blue

Volvo V60

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 197 - 455 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.4 - 6.2 L
  • Electric Range : 92 km
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Volvo V60

5 (1)
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The Volvo V60 exudes a sense of refined elegance with its sleek design and smooth contours, making it a standout in the estate car category. Inside, it offers a harmonious blend of luxury and functionality with premium materials and state-of-the-art technology, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. Its performance on the road is impressive, combining efficient handling with a powerful yet quiet ride, making it a favourite for those who appreciate both style and substance.

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228902_New_Volvo_V60_D4_Inscription_Denim_Blue @ media.volvocars.com
228900_New_Volvo_V60_D4_Inscription_Denim_Blue @ media.volvocars.com
228898_New_Volvo_V60_D4_Inscription_Denim_Blue @ media.volvocars.com
247770_Volvo_V60_T8_Test_Drive_in_Lule_Sweden @ media.volvocars.com
223558_New_Volvo_V60_exterior @ media.volvocars.com

VW Golf Variant

The VW Golf Variant represents a seamless blend of practicality and style, catering to drivers who require extra space without compromising on aesthetics. Its refined design and spacious interior make it an ideal choice for families and individuals with an active lifestyle. With advanced technology and a smooth driving experience, this estate car continues to impress within its class.

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Volvo V60
VW Golf Variant
V60
Golf Variant

Costs and Consumption
Price
41600 - 64200 £
Price
26100 - 48700 £
Consumption L/100km
2.4 - 6.2 L
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 8.2 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
92 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
14.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
54 - 140 g/km
co2
114 - 185 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
60 L
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Estate
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1734 - 2064 kg
Curb weight
1366 - 1621 kg
Trunk capacity
519 L
Trunk capacity
611 L
Length
4778 mm
Length
4631 - 4651 mm
Width
1850 mm
Width
1789 mm
Height
1432 mm
Height
1462 - 1487 mm
Max trunk capacity
1431 L
Max trunk capacity
1624 - 1642 L
Payload
466 - 506 kg
Payload
489 - 547 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
197 - 455 HP
Power HP
116 - 333 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.6 - 7.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.8 - 10.5 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
202 - 250 km/h
Torque
300 - 709 Nm
Torque
220 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
145 - 335 kW
Power kW
85 - 245 kW
Engine capacity
1969 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General
Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, G, F, C
Brand
Volvo
Brand
VW

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What drive types are available for the Volvo V60?

The Volvo V60 is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.