What’s most impressive about this plug-in hybrid is that you often forget it’s a hybrid when you’re driving it. It’s genuinely powerful, and a tremendously enjoyable driving experience. Its power numbers compete very well with non-hybrid vehicles from big names like Porsche, Benz and Jaguar.
Drive modes include: AWD, Pure (electric), Hybrid (everyday) and Power (sporty), plus an Offroad setting, easily adjustable depending on the conditions you’re driving in.
What I like about this model is that it’s not an all-electric vehicle, so you don’t have to worry about being stranded if the juice runs out. It also includes standard AWD. A four-corner air suspension is offered to make the ride even more enjoyable in the curves.
Electric-only range is up to 17 miles. The vehicle can be charged in your garage if you want to make maximum use of the electric miles and use less gas … particularly helpful if you have a short commute; You’ll need about seven hours to charge with a standard 110-volt outlet; A 240-volt outlet will do it in about 3 hours.
Overall fuel mileage is 26 city/28 highway/26 combined on gas-only XC60 models; and 59 MPGe on hybrid models … these are good numbers, but not as good as I had expected.
TECH/SAFETY
Beyond the eco-focused aspects, there’s plenty to like on this front too.
Regarding the Sensus Connect infotainment system, you get used to it but it is still not my favorite design. Too touchy and hard to find some things. The 9-inch touchscreen is definitely large enough though.
An excellent audio system is offered, with the option to upgrade to a Bowers and Wilkins system with 1100 watts and 15 speakers.
There are lots of features standard here that are options on some of the competitors, but once you start to add options on the XC60 T8 eAWD, things move up in price pretty quckly (my test vehicle grew almost $20K from its base price once all the features were added). There are some federal and state tax credits available with these types of vehicles, too, which can be helpful.
Steer Assist feature pushes you back into your lane if you are headed toward oncoming traffic. The Blind Spot Warning system automatically prevents you from making dangerous lane changes. Pilot Assist is a bold step in Volvo’s attempt at getting the the automation finish line first. It can take over steering, getting up to speed and braking without driver input at up to 80 mph.
Among those standard features are: auto emergency braking; hill start assist; low-speed frontal collision mitigation; and rear collision warning. A driver drowsiness monitor is also included and will warn you if your actions behind the wheel indicate fatigue.
BOTTOM LINE
The 2018 Volvo XC60 was already an amazing vehicle. Offering this more eco-friendly option to XC60 buyers makes sense, even if it’s not the best-selling version, because this type of vehicle is the future for Volvo. And if the XC-60 plug-in and its larger sibling the XC90 plug-in hybrid are any indication, the future is bright.
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Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu.
