XC60 D4 or D5.

[Dean Bryant]

My wife owns a 62 reg XC60 D5 R design Lux nav manual. Needs to change to an automatic due to a slipped disc injury which has left her with occasional flare ups and discomfort in left leg. Looking for a late 16 early 17 model and was wondering if anyone has experienced both the D5 automatic and the D4 VEA 8 speed automatic and if so their thoughts on both.

[niva441]

I run a XC60 D5 auto and my father a V60 D4 auto, I haven't driven a D4 XC60. The D4 drives well in the V60 and doesn't lack power, the power difference may be more noticeable on the XC60. The only slight black mark against it is a slight delay when pulling away from standstill. Both the 6 speed D5 and 8 speed D4 change gear well.

[dme123]

The D4 FWD has a VEA engine and 8 speed. The AWD models used the 5 pot engine and 6 speed auto right up until the end.

D4 FWD has more or less the same performance as a D5 AWD, but it will do more FWD scabbling if you're being heavy footed in the wet.

[niva441]

Yes traction is one thing I need to remember using when using the D4.

[Tannaton]

I would say the D5 AWD (MY 16 and 17 will have 220 BHP twin turbo) has a noticeable edge on performance, but obviously you pay for that in less economy.

I had a MY17 XC70 D4 FWD for 2 years and did a fair few miles in it - as a SUV it was very good - great comfort and unrivaled safety. However with even slightly worn tyres it would torque steer but traction was only an issue on mud and snow or trying to set off as quickly as possible.

Keep in mind resale values also - if your missus doesn't travel a lot - later model D5 AWD's will be at a premium in years to come. D4 FWD much more common.

I would avoid R-Design models as stiffer suspension and expensive tyres on large wheels that give harsh ride. SE LUX spec if definitely worth having with bendy xenon lights and TFT dashboard.