Power wise, it's very capable. on the XC90 side you'll see mentions of T6 towing travel trailers of 4500 or more. The power trains between XC60 and XC90 are the same, only difference will be wheelbase. Even though we have a XC90 T8 (more power than T6 with ICE + ERAD) while towing with ICE only (no ERAD assist making it comparable to a T6), it's very capable. It effortlessly pulls 4000lbs even over mountain passes. As for XC60 specifically, I've only seen one pulling a single horse horse trailer and I'd be surprised if it was breaking a sweat.

 

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I also know people that have pulled that weight with XC60s, just keep in mind that the official maximum weight for towing is 3,500 lbs.

 

What is the hp and torque of your Armada? Compare it to the 316hp 295lb-ft of the T6 and that should give you an idea how it will perform.

 

My trailer is about 2500 lbs and the T6 doesn't even know it's there. Granted, the trailer is somewhat streamlined but nevertheless the XC' handles it very nicely.
Have driven flat and mountains. All good. Fuel penalty is 10-15% when towing. Have left it with cruise control on and shifting is smooth going over the Coquihalla (long steep grades). Overall very pleased.

 

I am looking for any information on how well an XC60 does with pulling a trailer? The trailer I have is rated ate 2800 pounds but is usually lightly loaded with model planes, but still a bit of a drag. I am considering a T6 R-Design but would also consider the T5 R-design to save a little and get more options on available color and features.

I currently have a Nissan Armada and it has no problem pulling the trailer, but want to downsize to the XC60.

Does the T5 pull a trailer with some authority?

Am I looking to be disappointed with this setup?

Please make sure you research the tongue weight limit for the Volvo. It always seems to me to be unreasonably low when I've checked it in the past but that's what's in the manual. It's also not cheap to outfit a Volvo with the proper harness, software from dealer, and of course the hitch.