Plug-in hybrids deserve way more attention, especially as we transition from gas to electric. They’re a great middle-ground for buyers who aren’t ready to commit fully to an electric vehicle but still want to cut down on fuel use. Volvo’s XC60 Recharge nails this balance, combining Swedish craftsmanship with modern plug-in tech. The XC60 lets you enjoy the benefits of a hybrid while also taking full advantage of plug-in electric power, offering the best of both worlds.
It’s no easy feat to stand out in the crowded luxury SUV scene, but the XC60 manages to hold its own. With its uniquely Swedish character and attention to detail, it brings just the right blend of personality and sophistication, making it a smart choice in a seriously competitive market.
Performance & Comfort
Volvo gives you two powertrain options with the XC60, each with its appeal. The base B5 is a turbocharged 2L four-cylinder, paired with a 48-volt hybrid system that makes 247 horsepower. Then there’s the T8 plug-in hybrid, which ups the performance with a turbocharged and supercharged 2L engine and electric motors for a combined 455 horsepower. Both versions come with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
One of the XC60’s best features is just how comfortable the ride feels. It’s smooth and captures that luxurious driving experience Volvo is known for. The suspension does a great job soaking up bumps and rough patches, ensuring good ride quality. While it’s tuned more for comfort, it’s not a boring SUV—there’s enough power under the hood to deliver a satisfying burst of acceleration when you need it.
Handling is another area where the XC60 impresses. It feels stable and well-planted on the road, with a good balance in the corners. The steering gives you decent feedback for an SUV, so you feel connected to the road. When it comes to performance, the XC60 is all about delivering a composed, refined ride while not being too boring, and it nails that balance.
Interior & Seating
The XC60’s interior brings a touch of luxury, with design and materials that feel upscale, something you’d expect from a Volvo. It’s the little touches that elevate the experience, like the crystal gear shifter and the Bowers & Wilkins audio system up on the dash, adding both style and substance. The layout is practical, too—controls are intuitively arranged, and most settings are controlled through the 9-inch vertical touchscreen.
Volvo’s signature Scandinavian simplicity shines throughout the cabin, featuring clean lines and premium materials that give it a sophisticated yet understated vibe. It’s a space that manages to be both elegant and functional, creating a refined atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
The cabin feels roomy and inviting, with a large panoramic sunroof that floods the space with natural light, giving it an open, airy vibe. Both front and rear seats provide plenty of legroom and headroom, just what you’d expect from an SUV in this class. The seats themselves are well-cushioned and supportive, with enough adjustability to help every driver find their ideal position.
Visibility is a strong point, with clear sightlines all around, making the XC60 easy to drive in various conditions. The 360-degree camera system adds an extra layer of confidence when parking or maneuvering in tight spots, taking the stress out of navigating through crowded areas. Overall, it’s a comfortable and practical space designed to keep you relaxed on the road.
Technology & Safety
All XC60s come equipped with a 9-inch vertical touchscreen that runs on Volvo’s latest Google-based software. While it looks visually appealing, it feels a bit dated from the user experience standpoint. The system does offer good customization options and voice controls through Google Assistant, making it fairly easy to tailor the setup to your liking. While the interface isn’t the greatest, the menu layout is logically configured. And, if you can get past the slightly dated interface, it still works well.
Standard features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity make smartphone integration straightforward, while the onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, powered by a 4G LTE connection, keeps you connected on the go. Overall, the tech package in the XC60 is well-rounded, though there is a bit of a learning curve with the infotainment system.
Safety is where the XC60 shows Volvo’s roots. It’s packed with a range of safety and driver assistance features through the Volvo assist safety product, living up to the brand’s strong reputation for protecting its passengers.
Cargo & Storage
The XC60 is pretty solid in terms of cargo space, landing in the middle of the list among its competitors. With the rear seats folded, the space expands, and there is a lot of storage for longer objects. That said, interior storage is limited for smaller items, and the small cargo-area bin doesn’t help much. While the interior is stylish and has a clean, modern look, it falls short on versatility compared to some of its rivals. It’s aesthetically pleasing, but other SUVs offer more practical interior layouts that make it easier to handle storage and organization.
