Remember the '98 Subaru Legacy SUS, the first so-called "sport-utility sedan" that came from the brand that also introduced the world to the Outback "sport-utility wagon?" (Really? You don't?) The test model—which was initially marketed only in New England and featured two-tone trim, a higher ride height, and standard all-wheel drive, among other cold-weather goodies—sold so successfully that Subaru later added a full Outback trim level to its Legacy run in subsequent generations of the sedan.

Almost two decades later, after following Subaru's lead by introducing Cross Country (XC) versions of its popular V70 wagon line, Volvo is eager for a piece of the AWD sedan market. The 2015 Volvo S60 Cross Country (pictured above) will borrow concept and execution from the upcoming V60 Cross Country model. Ironically, the S60 Cross Country will now essentially exist in a segment of its own, as the Outback sedan has been discontinued.

The big changes from S60 to S60 Cross Country will be a ride height that is 2.5 inches higher off the ground and standard all-wheel drive. S60 Cross Country sedans that come to the United States will use Volvo's 250-hp five-cylinder engine—as opposed to the more efficient Drive-E powertrain—for the time being.

Expect the S60 Cross Country to be ready for pre-order this summer—just in time to begin worrying about next winter's snowfall.

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