Added batteries, a tweaked turbo four, and a more potent electric motor delivering more power whilst doubling all-electric capability and lowering emissions - sounds impressive. So, what can be expected with the updated XC60 model?
One of the greatest advantages of the auto industry currently is the record profitability and the ability it gives carmakers to invest in truly worthwhile upgrades during mid-cycle refreshes. Take a look at Volvo’s plug-in hybrids, specifically the latest version of the Volvo XC60 Recharge T8 Extended Range. Similar to its big brother and the company’s refreshed S60, V60 and S90 hybrids, it sports a new-for-‘22 vehicle that extracts more power from its electric motor and turbocharging its 2.0-liter four-cylinder to new heights, with extra battery cells delivering greater all-electric range.
So, What’s Been Upgraded Performance Wise?
Thanks to a new, third layer of cells, the T8 battery pack's capacity jumps from 9.1 kWh to 14.9 kWh, increasing its range in all-electric operation - what Volvo calls "Pure" mode. Jumping from a measly 19 miles, to an impressive 36, a very significant move. The result is a car that can now cover a claimed 47 miles solely on battery power, and much less CO2 emissions output, which makes it an even better proposition for company car owners. Volvo research had determined that customers spend half of their time in all-electric mode. For those with charging capability at home or at work, Volvo proposes, most daily driving can be tackled in the new model on electric power alone. A further benefit can also see buyers qualifying for the federal government's full $7500 tax credit, as opposed to the $5419 available for buyers of its previous range.
If you’re after a fast SUV of a similar size and price, the Porsche Macan S and Jaguar F-Pace offer comparable performance, while the Audi Q5 TFSI e plug-in is a close rival for the 2012 Recharge models on paper. You could also consider a Volvo XC60 with a conventional engine, which won’t be as quick, but could save you as much as $7,000!
Expect power and expect a lot of improvement to the powertrain, it sees its output skyrocket 55 horsepower to an astonishing 455 horsepower, with the new and improved electric motor chipping in 143 of those to coincide with the 313 that come courtesy of the tweaked gasoline engine. Up substantially from the outgoing model's horsepower, electric motive force gets directed to the rear wheels, while the gas engine takes care of the fronts. With this much horsepower and a whopping 523 pound-feet of torque, the refreshed mid-size SUV stands as the most powerful car Volvo has ever brought to market.
An SUV That Can Reach 0-60 mph In 4.5 Seconds
The 2022 Volvo XC60 Recharge T8 can reach 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 4.5 seconds, shaving half a second off its previous model's best effort. One-pedal driving, which is where braking causes the car to slow when the driver lifts off the accelerator without applying the brakes, is a new and much appreciated feature for the hybrid model, one that was previously seen only on the firm's EV offerings. Those who've not experienced it will quickly get the hang of the one-pedal operation and surely will quickly grow to enjoy it, slowing down with a smoothness that quickly becomes second nature.
Either in full-EV or hybrid mode, you won’t find the XC60 T8 Recharge lacking, and the extra grit means it should be an even better car for towing than before. Refined to keep its sleek duty, external updates are subtle for this refreshed and still quite handsome model, with a new grille and rear bumper its most noticeable changes seen on the outside.
How Much Will This Beast Set You Back?
Prices start at $55,845, so the XC60 Recharge T8 Extended Range is not cheap, though, in an era of rapidly rising car prices, surely reasonable. Despite the high price tag, it’s surely not as expensive as it feels, with quality fittings and distinctive good looks that amount to extraordinary style in a time when cheap plastics dominate and, with few exceptions, SUVs tend to switch between dull and boring. This XC60 Recharge is neither, and its revised, ultra-modern dash and uniquely stylish interior design help make it legitimate competition for models costing far more. Space for four adults is roomy, while the boot room has taken a slight hit, falling to 468 liters, due to packaging the electric motor, those losses are felt under the boot floor. Particularly appealing was the all-new fabric seating, a gray wool blend that promises to be comfortable in extreme weather, both hot and cold.
Volvo have impressively revealed an improved ultra-powerful motor which appeals to most modern-day drivers. All in all, the XC60 Recharge T8 Extended Range provides proof that in car manufacture, as well as in life, if you have the money to upgrade, why would you not.
Sources: CarAndDriver, YesAuto, TheCarConnection, AutoBlog