In the realm of luxury SUVs, Volvo has a variety of options to compete in this increasingly competitive category.

In the middle of their SUV lineup, stuck between the compact XC40 and three-row XC90 offering, is Volvo’s XC60 — a midsize SUV that will meet the needs of most SUV shoppers.

While it’s been seven years since the last full redesign of the XC60, the vehicle surprisingly still holds up well with the 2025 offering, which I recently had a chance to test. Offered in both regular and plug-in hybrid versions, the XC60 continues to offer attractive design, plenty of space inside, and excellent tech and safety features.

Read on for a full breakdown of how it compares in the luxury market vs. midsize SUV competitors such as the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

As automotive brands make their transitions into offering exclusively EVs, a transition that will take many years, the role of plug-in hybrids will continue to be important for many automakers.

Volvo’s current plug-in hybrid offerings include the 2023 XC60 Recharge, a mid-size SUV that delivers in design, performance and safety, and competes well against other plug-in hybrid offerings from brands such as Lincoln, Lexus and Porsche.

This Swedish beauty may have an argument for best in class, and offers both increased power and increased range for 2023.

Read on for a full breakdown of what the XC60 Recharge has to offer to buyers looking for a ride that is both green and enjoyable.

While the charge toward electrification of the vehicles we buy continues, some brands are taking the challenge more seriously than others.

Among the brands most dedicated to this incoming change, and leading the charge (no pun intended), is Volvo. The company has a lofty goal of having fully electric vehicles comprising 50 percent of its sales by 2025, and already offers all of its new models in some form of hybrid or electric model.

Volvo has the difficult task of maintaining the strong driving experience that Volvos tend to offer, while adapting to this new eco-friendly environment. I recently tested a 2021 Volvo XC60 Recharge, the plug-in hybrid version of their mid-size SUV, and I’m back with a full report on whether it lives up to these expectations.

Volvo’s entry in the compact luxury SUV category, the XC60, is battling for buyers among the giants of the luxury world — from Acura and Audi to Benz and BMW — so the task it faces in finding an audience can be daunting.

The 2020 model maintains the look from the 2018 redesign, but the good news is this is still among the best-looking and top-performing vehicles in the class. 

Read on for my full take on how it measures up in the segment.

LOOKS
The 2020 Volvo XC60 features a unique and well-designed exterior for a luxury SUV, especially in the rear of the vehicle. Volvo doesn’t blend in with the crowd like so many competitors do.

Inside, the XC60 is extra comfy and well put-together. The brand isn’t the first nameplate most people think of when the term luxury is mentioned, but anyone who has sat in a Volvo in recent years knows that it should be top of mind.

Attractive driftwood touches highlight the front dashboard, and extremely cozy and warm Nappa Leather seating will support you even on longer rides. The XC60 makes you feel at home, like a luxury model should.

Second row seating is roomy compared to other options in the segment, and the driver and front passenger will be very comfortable.

Quality features available on the XC60 include a Panoramic Moonroof w/Power Sunshade, Keyless Entry w/ Hands Free Tailgate Opening, Rear Park Assist Camera, 4-Zone Automatic Climate Control, Heated Wiper blades with Integrated Washers, and heated rear and front seats.