By Ian Strachan.
Volvo’s XC60 is one of the biggest selling Volvos ever, with nearly three million sales worldwide. Despite being around since 2017 this Swedish SUV can still compete with newer opposition.
The XC60 has just had a bit of a restyle, with a new front end and grille, new alloy wheels and an updated touchscreen. I tested the XC60 plug-in hybrid in T8 specification and all-wheel-drive.
The XC60 hybrid gives you up to 50 miles of all-electric driving before the vehicle reverts to its excellent 310 bhp two litre petrol engine, which is supported by a 145 bhp electric motor. After that you switch seamlessly from petrol to electric power depending on the demands of the vehicle.
Volvo’s SUV range shows a lot of confidence, pitching in with the best. And the Discovery-sized XC60 is no exception. It more than holds its own and offers a genuine premium alternative to the other big hitters, with high levels of connectivity, interior comfort and safety.
Its soft Scandinavian curves, classy interior and car-like handling blur the lines between a true 4×4 and a big estate. But don’t be fooled – the XC60 is the real deal when it comes to all-wheel-drive off-roading. Its high ground-clearance and host of electronic features will keep you motoring safely in all terrains.
The XC60 also looks good, with smooth and sporty good looks despite its rugged capabilities. The result is a car which is the ultimate in practicality, but which still looks smart on the road.
In design terms, there’s no doubt that this is a Volvo. Solid, sturdy-looking and roomy, it’s all Volvo from front, back and side.
It has a high stance, superb traction and a host of electronics to keep you safe (this is a Volvo, after all). I took the XC60 across some pretty hairy country tracks and it didn’t miss a beat. With its chunky tyres on big 20- inch alloys I was impressed how good its off-road capabilities were.
The 2.0 litre four cylinder engine is very quiet, with smooth, unfussed power delivery. Linked to an effortless automatic transmission, driving it is a pleasure, particularly when you need mid range power.
Ride is comfortable in the extreme, with nicely damped suspension, no sea cruise body roll on cornering, and supportive, supremely comfortable seats. The front seats are heated as is the steering wheel, which was welcome on cold winter mornings.
The interior is nicely trimmed with soft materials. The dash is uncluttered and clear with all controls falling nicely to hand. Most functions are controlled from a centrally mounted 11.2-inch touchscreen. There’s plenty of leg and elbow room inside the cabin, and the load space – behind a hands-free powered tailgate – is impressive, with extra stowage under the boot floor.
Trim levels are high on the T8 spec. Standard equipment includes a good satnav system with live traffic information, Google maps and voice control. You get a surround-sound 10-speaker sound system with DAB radio and MP3 player with Bluetooth and four USB sockets, wireless mobile phone charging, two-zone electronic climate control with air quality system, cruise control with speed limiter, steer assist and lane control, pedestrian and cyclist detection, front collision warning with automatic emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors with rear camera, electric front seats and electrically heated folding door mirrors.
This XC60 plug-in hybrid in T8 AWD Ultra spec comes at £68,860 on the road. The range starts at £48,410. My test car came with Mulberry Red metallic paint at £695. Volvo motoring at this level isn’t cheap, but you get a great deal of car and comfort for your money.
