For a very long time, German automakers dominated the market for premium SUVs. Although each of these cars has established a distinct position in the class, there is a commonality that unites them all. There are a few options for individuals seeking to break the mold, and the 2023 Volvo XC60 is one of them.
With its distinctive Scandinavian design, the XC60 stands out from the competition in its class. Its exterior styling is so simple and understated that a BMW or Benz could never be mistaken for it. A very attractive wool blend fabric is one of the unusual upholstery options available for the sophisticated cabin's interior. A variety of engines are available as well, ranging from affordable mild hybrids to a potent plug-in hybrid that can go up to 35 miles on battery power alone.
Given that the XC60 is a Volvo, safety is a top priority. All of the anticipated cutting-edge safety technologies are included as standard, and the vehicle's superb crash test results give you even more peace of mind. It has even received recognition from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety as a Top Safety Pick+. The trim levels' names have changed and their features have undergone a slight revision for 2023. Additionally, the plug-in hybrid model gains increased power and EV range.
Overall, the existing BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC are interesting and fashionable alternatives to the 2023 Volvo XC60. Driving enjoyment isn't as exhilarating, at least not in the mild hybrid series, but if you're looking for a family car, that's probably not a big deal. The brash Genesis GV70, the segment's value leader, is another option. Give the XC60 a close look if you're thinking about any of these cars, especially the plug-in hybrid Recharge model.
If you have room in your budget, we advise getting the XC60 Recharge in Plus trim. This plug-in hybrid is significantly more powerful and expensive than mild hybrid powertrains, but depending on your commute, the accessibility of chargers, and gas prices, you may be able to recover the additional cost through lower fuel costs in a few years. Otherwise, we recommend sticking with the Plus trim's standard hybrid drivetrain and possibly adding all-wheel drive if you live somewhere with cold or wet weather.
VOLVO XC60 models
Four trim options are available for the Volvo XC60, a small luxury SUV: Base, Plus, Ultimate, and Polestar Engineered. Additionally, there are three exterior options: Base, Dark, and Bright. The Base matches the trim level, while the Dark (exterior accents that are blacked out) and Bright (exterior accents that are chrome or metallic) are only available on higher trim levels. The XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid model uses the same trims.
There are four different powertrain options as well. A 48-volt mild hybrid system is combined with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to power the B5 (247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque). For more power, the B6 upgrades the same engine with a supercharger. The Recharge T8 is a plug-in hybrid vehicle with an 18.8 kWh battery (455 horsepower, 523 lb-ft), and its estimated electric-only range is 35 miles.
An eight-speed automatic transmission is mated to each engine. The B5 engine is standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is an option. AWD is a feature of the B6 and Recharge T8 powertrains.
The base trim comes with a ton of cutting-edge technology and security measures. Only the B5 engine or Recharge T8 are offered for sale. Highlights of common features include:
alloy 18-inch wheels
LED outdoor illumination
ridge rails
sweeping sunroof
Keyless ignition and entry
external mirrors with motorized folding
Wipers with a rain sensor
Automatic dual-zone climate control
Fabric or faux-leather upholstery
front chairs with heat (AWD models)
electronic instrumentation
Pad for wireless charging
infotainment system powered by Google
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto navigation Satellite radio
Typical high-tech safety measures include:
Avoiding forward collisions (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Rear cross-traffic alert with blind-spot warning (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
help with lane keeping (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
brakes in reverse automatically (applies the brakes automatically to avoid an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle)
sensors for rear and front parking (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking)
Auto-high beams
driver attention monitoring (issues an alert if sensors determine you are becoming fatigued)
reader of traffic signs
Polestar Engineered
The sportier option in the lineup is the Polestar Engineered trim, which is only available with the T8 drivetrain. Other improvements comprise:
21-inch wheels wearing performance summer tires
Intelligent headlights
suspension optimized for sport
Adjustable suspension dampers by Ohlins
Brembo brakes with calipers coated in gold
seat belts in a gold color
additional changes to the front seat
rear seats with heat
Warming the steering wheel
Premium audio brand Bowers & Wilkins
Wipers with a rain sensor
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