Tow Car of the Year

The Volvo XC60 crossover has beaten 38 rival vehicles to take the coveted Overall Winner title at the Tow Car Awards 2009.

David Motton, Contributing Editor at Practical Caravan Magazine and head judge at the Towcar Awards, said: "Many cars made our judges sit up and take notice, but one stood out above all others: the Volvo XC60. Great to look at, great to travel in and tow with, the Volvo just had to win. "Already a winner at the What Car? Car of the Year Awards 2009, it's a winner as a towcar, too. Stylish, stable and practical, what more do you want?"

The towcar was examined at the MIRA vehicle testing centre in Warwickshire, the exceptional performance left judges in no doubt that it was the best vehicle in its class and also the best towcar overall. Judges said the Volvo XC60 D5 SE Geartronic model's all-round talents meant it scored higher during the vehicle trials than any of its rivals, which included the Audi Q5, Jaguar XF, Skoda Superb, Jeep Cherokee and Vauxhall Insignia.

Two new diesel engines that deliver more power and lower emissions have since been introduced to the Volvo XC60 range. The new 2.4D cuts CO2 output from 199/km to 159/km while boosting power to 175PS. Prices range from £24,250 - £33,740

By Geraldine Ashton Green