Overview
Every one of Volvo's vehicles, including its best-selling 2022 XC60 SUV, is a testament to the brand's distinct Swedish worldview. The XC60 earned an Editors' Choice award for striking a fashionable pose in traffic while the cabin acts as an elegant haven from the dangers of the daily commute. There are three distinct powertrains available, one of which is a powerful plug-in hybrid model. Although the amount of cargo capacity isn't as large as in competitors like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, or Mercedes-Benz GLC-class, we believe most purchasers will still find it to be useful.
To keep the XC60's bright side up, technology is interwoven throughout, including a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, and several driver-assistance functions.
What Has Changed For 2022?
The 48-volt hybrid B5 and B6 powertrains are comparable to the T5 and T6 powertrains that were previously available for the XC60; the plug-in hybrid T8 powertrain remains the SUV's top powerplant but receives a larger battery pack that increases the SUV's electric driving range to 35 miles.
Additionally, Volvo is replacing the outdated Sensus infotainment system in the XC60 with a more up-to-date Google Android-based system that is adapted from the EV XC40 Recharge. The 9.0-inch screen is still vertically oriented, but updated software offers more customization options, voice assistance, and Google Maps navigation.
The 2022 model year is also marked by several subtle stylistic adjustments, such as a modified grille, a revised front bumper, modernized wheels, and the debut of Volvo's City Weave cloth upholstery as an option for the XC60.
Volvo claims that the XC60's multiple radars, camera, and ultrasonic sensors, which give information for the SUV's driver-assistance systems, have been upgraded in addition to the stylistic update and the new infotainment system.
Volvo XC60: Interior And Comfort
Along with these slight styling changes, the 2022 model year also sees the introduction of Volvo's City Weave fabric upholstery as an option for the XC60 and changes to the grille, front bumper, and wheels.
In addition to receiving a cosmetic update and receiving a new infotainment system, Volvo claims that the XC60's numerous radar, camera, and ultrasonic sensors, which provide data for the SUV's driver-assistance systems, have been updated.
Volvo XC60: Connectivity
A 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment panel that runs Volvo's most recent Google-based software interface is standard on all XC60 models. The system features voice controls through Google Assistant and several customization choices.
This system's menus are challenging to navigate, but we found it to be responsive when we used it in the electric Polestar 2 car. Bluetooth connectivity, an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot powered by a 4G LTE data connection, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are all included as standard features.
Volvo XC60: Engine And Performance
The XC60 is available with one of three alternative powertrains from Volvo: the B5, B6, or T8. Each is coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Under the hood of standard B5-badged XC60s are a 48-volt hybrid system and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 247 horsepower.
The same 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharger used in the B5 also powers the B6, but a supercharger has been added for extra power. The B6 powertrain, which boasts 295 horsepower, seems a little more spirited than cars with the base B5 engine, but it was slower than the T6 model on our test track, reaching 60 mph in 6.6 seconds.
For a total of 455 horsepower in the Recharge versions, the plug-in hybrid T8 powertrain combines the B6's engine with a set of electric motors. Although we haven't had a chance to test that particular model, we were impressed by the T8 powertrain's rapid acceleration and practically flawless operation during our brief first drive.
While the Porsche Macan encourages hooliganism, the Volvo XC60 does not. The XC60 handles curves effectively, feels connected to the road while cruising, and changes directions with confidence. When traveling over bumpier areas of the road, the ride can feel a little harsh, but when traveling over smoother sections, it is comfortable and serene.
Volvo XC60: Battery Life And Charging
By choosing the Recharge or Polestar model, you may add the T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain, which has an estimated 35 miles of electric-only range. The XC60 T8 has 110- or 220-volt outlets for charging at home or public charging stations, but Volvo also has a useful feature that can power the battery when necessary with power from the SUV's gasoline engine.
Volvo XC60: Pricing
For a luxury small SUV, the starting MSRP of the base XC60 Momentum is $42,650, which is a touch high. The entry-level Inscription costs $50,150, while the luxurious Polestar Engineered trim costs $69,500.
Which One To Purchase?
Our suggestion for the R-Design B6 is due to our love of the racy exterior of the R-Design and the lively performance of the T6 powertrain in our long-term XC60 test vehicle. With a host of new equipment becoming standard, the price premium over the base Momentum trim is justified in this case. The R-Design has a four-zone automatic climate control system, a power-operated rear liftgate, nicer wheels, and a Harman/Kardon audio system.