VOLVO XC60

Volvos have been making excellent all-wheel drive SUVs for a while, but this model stands out. Still classed as a high-performance SUV, the XC60 has better than average clearance, effective traction control and as many safety features you can think of. Powered by the well tried but dated, 6-cylinder multi-valve turbo diesel, it has a 6-speed manual gearbox but no low range. On tar its handling is, I think, superior to any in this class, but on rough tracks and gravel falls behind the Forester and Freelander. None of the other Volvo models qualify for this buyer’s guide, the XC60 scrapping through.