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30/09/2020
And while there’s still a few years to go until that happens, the Swedish manufacturer are making great leaps into the electrification of their current range, and some of our favourite models – namely the car we’re taking a look at today, the XC60 Plug-in Hybrid.
*2020 Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge
Fuel Type: Petrol Plug-in Hybrid
Model Line: R-Design Pro
Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
Power: 303 + 87hp
0-60: 5.2 seconds
Colour: Fusion Red Metallic (optional extra)
Upholstery: Slate Nappa/Graphite textile upholstery and metal mesh inlays
Optional extras:
Value of model driven: £64,375.00
*Prices and model lines correct at the time of publication
The T8 is a petrol Plug-in Hybrid that offers the best of both worlds: combining a 2L, four-cylinder turbocharged and supercharged petrol engine with a battery-powered 87hp / 240Nm electric motor for better efficiency and the ability to travel up to 30 miles emission-free.
Most importantly this can result in a lower carbon footprint and the potential for reduced running costs in comparison to a standard combustion equivalent – that is if you keep the car charged and for its intended use. It’s worth noting that the fuel economy suffers when taken out of hybrid or electric mode or on longer journeys.
An initial 303 horsepower comes straight from the petrol engine with an additional 87 horsepower produced by the electric battery. All in all that makes for a very impressive performance. With light and agile steering and a seamless 8-speed gearbox which, when you put your foot down, can get you from 0-60 in just 5.2 seconds.
Constant AWD, Pure (Eco-Drive), Hybrid, Power and Off-Road driving modes allow you to tailor the drive depending on your needs. And when the time comes to charge, it’s incredibly simple. The car comes as standard with a seven-metre charge cable for a domestic three-pin plug socket, but you can also opt for an optional Type 2 connector, which will work with most 3.7kW, 7kW and 33kW charging stations. With that three-pin plug, it’ll get a full charge in between 5-7 hours.
In terms of looks, the XC60 is up there with the best in its class. Volvo has massively upped their game when it comes to design, and on the road, this is easily as good looking as the Audi Q5...or at least in my opinion. R-Design Pro models get 21-inch alloys as standard, but this car goes one step further with these 22-inch beauties.
Slate Nappa leather with graphite textile upholstery provides a nice contrast inside for those wanting something other than a standard black interior. Rear seats come complete with power folding headrests and two easy-access ISOFIX points for child seats.
All XC60 models get a 9-inch vertical touchscreen as standard, complete with satellite navigation, DAB Radio and voice activation for key functions. While not as good as the systems in the BMW X3 or Mercedes-Benz GLC, the interface is relatively easy to use and will suit those after a more simplistic display.
Standard features also include this 12.3-inch driver’s display, and Inscription Pro and R-Design Pro models like ours also get a Head-up display which minimises distraction and the need to look away from the road for speed changes.
Other standard features on the R-Design Pro include:
In true Volvo style, there’s also an abundance of safety features including a blind spot assistant that will give you a warning light in the mirror when there’s restricted visibility – and if you continue to drift into the path of another vehicle it’ll use its steer assist function to help you back into your lane. This, as well as adaptive cruise control, pilot assist and rear collision mitigation, is part of the Intellisafe Pro package, but even as standard the safety features are impressive.
There’s steering support, with pedestrian, cyclist and large animal detection, full collision warning and full auto-braking as standard. This, as well as things like a Whiplash Protection System, Vehicle Deceleration Control and a speed limiter.
All Recharge models get the following as standard:
Momentum
Inscription Expression (In addition to Momentum)
Inscription (In addition to Momentum)
Inscription Pro (In addition to Inscription)
R-Design (In addition to Momentum)
R-Design Pro (In addition to R-Design)
The XC60 is a forward-thinking, adaptable hybrid SUV that offers the best of both worlds. For those who commute short distances and can make the most of this impressive technology, you’ll find the T8 a thrilling and oh so comfortable experience.
However, those who plan to rack up the miles might want to explore one of the combustion engine variants or perhaps opts for the fully electric, though smaller, Volvo XC40. Meanwhile, if you require something bigger, you also have the option of the Volvo XC90.
We make no secrets here at Carparison about our admiration for the Swedish brand and with competitive monthly payments, our Volvo lease deals are hugely cost-effective.
