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With the 2024 XC60 Recharge, Volvo takes a bold step into the future with plug-in hybrid mid-sized SUV.
5 November 2024
Written by Wheels magazine
The Volvo XC60 has always been a beacon of luxury and safety in the mid-sized SUV segment, situated between the small XC40 and large family SUV the XC90.
With the 2024 XC60 Recharge, Volvo takes a bold step into the future, blending its iconic design with cutting-edge hybrid technology.
Volvo's plan to go all-electric by 2030 is getting started with a range of electric and hybrid powertrains.
So in a world transitioning to electric, does the XC60 Recharge lead the charge?
The Volvo XC60 Recharge is a plug-in hybrid available in a single grade called Ultimate, priced at $101,990 before on-road costs.
There's an impressive 340kW and massive 709Nm to play with via both the 2.0-litre petrol four-cylinder with the 18.8kWh battery electric motor, giving it a fast 0-100 time of 4.9 seconds.
The electric-only range is 81 kilometres, while Volvo claims that it can achieve a fuel consumption rate of 1.6L/100km when operating in hybrid mode.
Standard features for the latest Volvo XC60 Recharge include: 12-inch infotainment screen; 15 premium speaker audio system; ambient cabin lighting; Apple Carplay and Android Auto; auto dimming rear view mirrors; CleanZone air purifier, dual-zone climate control; heads up display; heated front seats, panoramic roof and power adjustable front seats.
On the exterior: 21-inch alloy wheels; 360-degree camera; power hands-free tailgate; rain sensing wipers; rear privacy glass; roof rails; and tyre pressure monitoring system.
The standard XC60 is covered by a five-star ANCAP safety rating, however the PHEV does not carry a rating, due to the difference in powertrains.
It is however packed with safety features so it's easy to read between the lines. Features include seven airbags, forward and reverse autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, lane-keep assist, road sign recognition, a 360-degree parking camera and adaptive cruise control.
Like other premium Volvos, the vehicle is also able to self park.
The XC60 offers the best of both worlds – the efficiency of electric driving and the flexibility of a hybrid – and therefore is ideal for someone looking to slowly adapt to electric technology.
If you're seeking a mid-sized SUV that doesn't compromise on luxury, safety, or environmental responsibility, the XC60 Recharge is a frontrunner.
However with mild-hybrid versions of the XC60 available as well, starting from $30,000 cheaper, it might be a more tempting proposition.
Images supplied by Wheels magazine. This article was written by an independent author of Wheels Media. Full disclaimer