Too many controls tied to frustrating touchscreen interface
Ride is a bit busier than expected for a luxury SUV
Former T8 plug-in hybrid is now called Recharge
Adaptive headlights, hands-free liftgate and rear USB-C ports added as standard
Part of the second XC60 generation introduced for 2018
There aren't a lot of choices if you're in the market for a small luxury SUV that benefits from a plug-in hybrid system. Thankfully, those choices are quite good and include the 2021 Volvo XC60 Recharge. Formerly called the T8, the Recharge packs 400 horsepower and can go about 19 miles on all-electric power before switching to regular hybrid operation.
The XC60 Recharge sets itself apart from the BMW X3 plug-in variant with its distinctive Scandinavian flair and smart cargo area. Unfortunately, it also drives differently from the BMW and non-hybrid XC60s, with inconsistent braking and lazy handling characteristics. There's also the Mercedes-Benz GLC. It's our top-rated choice in the non-hybrid category, but we haven't fully evaluated the GLC 350e plug-in yet.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
Rated for you by America’s best
Our verdict
7.7 / 10
The XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid surprises with its design and straight-line performance. The Recharge quietly excels at the things real drivers need: acceleration and interior usability. But its complicated powertrain, underwhelming handling and poor low-speed drivability preclude us from recommending it over the simpler and more accessible T6.
How does the XC60 drive?
6.5
The Recharge needs only 5.1 seconds to reach 60 mph. That's a full second ahead of the T6. Unfortunately, the handoff between regenerative and friction braking is grabby and inconsistent. The pedal modulation feels better in the vehicle's B drive mode but is never completely sorted.
Handling suffers with the Recharge as well. The air suspension keeps the car comfortable in the flats but doesn't work as well on twisty roads. The front and rear of the XC60 feel a bit out of sync, resulting in lazy body motions. The steering has vague on-center feel, quick initial turn-in and artificially light weighting, which is nice, but there's also kickback from harsher bumps and irregular road surfaces.
How comfortable is the XC60?
7.5
Even in its softest suspension setting, the air suspension doesn't filter out most high-frequency road vibrations. Wind is the most prominent noise, with road noise a close second, but neither is loud or unpleasant. The ride is a little busy and unsettled for a luxury crossover, so we recommend avoiding the large 20-inch wheels.
Seating comfort is the XC60's strong point thanks largely to the highly adjustable massaging seats and well-padded surfaces. Unlike the XC60 T6, the Recharge is not available with a four-zone climate control system. Only dual-zone is offered, and the system is finicky and sluggish upon startup. On the plus side, the climate control system is quiet and maintains temperature well.
How’s the interior?
8.0
The cabin is spacious, with the exception of a sunroof eating up some headroom. The doors open wide, but the step-over is a little high and the raked windshield means a low entry for taller passengers. A lot of seat adjustability and decent range in the adjustable steering column mean most drivers can find a good driving position.
The touchscreen infotainment is intuitive and user-friendly, responding quickly to swipe and pinch gestures like you'd use on a smartphone. Outward visibility is excellent thanks to narrow front roof pillars. The generous rear window space, the power-folding rear headrests and optional 360-degree camera system also help out.
How’s the tech?
8.5
Volvo backs up the XC60's modern styling with a ton of well-executed technology. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system is one of the most advanced and configurable offerings we've come across, and it offers rich sound and deep bass. The nav system's modern graphics are almost as nice. The driving aids work well and are easy to adjust through the touchscreen.
Device integration is also excellent. You can pair your phone while on the move and choose between Apple CarPlay and Android Auto or use Volvo's native Bluetooth interface, which also works well. Voice control functionality is quite extensive too. You can control all the usual functions related to phone calls and navigation plus the climate system, including the seat heaters and heated steering wheel.
How’s the storage?
8.5
The hybrid's cargo area is almost as big as the regular XC60's, so that means you get a pleasingly large space. In-cabin storage is decent, and the felt- and rubber-lined door pockets keep items from clanking around while you're on the road.
The car seat anchors for child safety seats are located under easy-access flip covers, and there should be enough room for rear-facing child seats.
How economical is the XC60?
6.5
The XC60's plug-in hybrid system gets you 19 reliable miles of EV range per charge and boosts acceleration. But we're not sure it's worth the expense of additional weight and, more importantly, upfront cost. During our test, we saw an average of 24.3 mpg without factoring in EV range, which is about what the non-hybrid T6 gets.
Is the XC60 a good value?
7.0
The Recharge has quality and premium features that aren't currently offered in its segment, but the additional expense for the hybrid system will be off-putting to many. The hybrid system will provide some fuel savings, but it'll take a long time to offset its higher sticker price. The interior materials feel of quality, and there's real craftsmanship to some of the pieces, specifically the wood trim in this Inscription model.
Build quality is excellent, even for a luxury SUV, and Volvo matches most segment competitors in warranty coverage. Scheduled maintenance coverage is typical for luxury vehicles at three years/36,000 miles, but roadside assistance is above average with four years/unlimited miles. Volvo also offers free towing for the life of the vehicle, a unique perk no matter how much you've paid for your car.
Wildcard
8.0
Volvo needed to reboot its best-selling vehicle without screwing up what was working, and the carmaker knocked it out of the park. The design and poise of the XC60 are like nothing else in the segment, and it just happens to look really stinking good too. It doesn't impress from a handling standpoint, but most people buying this vehicle don't prioritize dynamics.
Practical luxury is more in line with the XC60 Recharge's mission. It's quick, but it isn't a sports car. Its user-friendly interface and driver aids make it easy to log miles. We'd recommend it to a friend looking for a modern, functional plug-in that's enjoyable to drive in the city or on the highway.
Which XC60 does Edmunds recommend?
The Inscription costs just a bit more than the R-Design, but we appreciate its breadth of added luxury features over the R-Design's sportier setup. The Advanced package is a must-have if you want adaptive cruise control, and the Bowers & Wilkins audio system is expensive but exceptional.
Volvo XC60 models
The 2021 Volvo XC60 Recharge is a plug-in hybrid SUV offered in four trim levels: Inscription Expression, R-Design,Inscription and Polestar Engineered. Power comes from a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor (400 hp, 472 lb-ft). Volvo estimates EV range at 19 miles on a full charge. The Polestar Engineered model increases power output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to the front wheels, and an electric motor powers the rear wheels to provide all-wheel drive.
Inscription Expression
This base trim level comes with:
18-inch alloy wheels
Adaptive LED headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Panoramic sunroof
Hands-free tailgate
Auto-dimming mirrors
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Driver-seat memory settings
Heated front seats
Leather upholstery
9-inch touchscreen
10-speaker audio system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Advanced driving aids and safety features include:
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
Lane keeping assist (steers the car back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane
Rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross your vehicle's path while in reverse)
Rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible behind the vehicle when parking)
Rear automatic braking (brakes if sensors detect an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle)
There are numerous packages and stand-alone options available for this trim level. They include:
Premium package
Navigation system
Power-folding outboard rear headrests
Front parking sensors
Advanced package
Premium package
Ambient interior lighting
Wireless charging pad
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Volvo and the car in front)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
360-degree camera system (gives you a top-down view of the Volvo and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line onto the windshield)
Climate package
Heated front and rear seats
Heated steering wheel
19- or 20-inch wheels
14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Integrated booster cushions for outboard rear seats
Air ionizer (helps further filter and clean air in the cabin)
R-Design
The R-Design is positioned as the sporty XC60. Upgrades over the base model include:
Premium package
19-inch wheels
Black exterior trim
Ambient interior lighting
Heated front sport seats with cloth bolstering
14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Unless already included, the optional features listed above for the Inscription Expression trim are available for the R-Design except the 20-inch wheels. Additional options include:
21-inch wheels
Air suspension (adapts to provide greater ride comfort or sportier handling)
15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system
Inscription
The Inscription offers more luxury features, building off the Momentum with these additions:
Premium package
19-inch wheels
Chrome exterior trim
Ambient interior lighting
Ventilated front seats
Upgraded leather upholstery
14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Unless already included, all features on the Momentum/Inscription Expression trim are available for the Inscription. Additional options include:
Air suspension
15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system
Polestar Engineered
The Polestar Engineered starts with the R-Design's upgrades, along with an uprated version of the Recharge model's powertrain. It also includes:
Advanced package
21-inch wheels with summer performance tires
Brembo front brakes
Special Öhlins suspension dampers
Gold-colored seat belts
15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system
The only options available for the Polestar Engineered trim are 22-inch wheels and the integrated booster cushions.
Helps avoid collisions by steering back into the lane if you cross a lane marking in the way of an oncoming vehicle.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Pilot Assist
Adjusts cruise control speed automatically in relation to the vehicle in front and supports the driver in keeping the car within the lane.
Driver Alert Control
Monitors steering inputs and senses if you're driving more erratically or have signs of drowsiness. Provides an audible warning and message.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
15.5%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Side Impact Test
Good
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
Good
Volvo XC60 vs. the competition
Volvo XC60 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
Edmunds' top-ranked small luxury SUV is the Mercedes-Benz GLC. Everything from its powerful engines to its superlative ride comfort and roomy interior is worthy of the Mercedes badge. The GLC bests the XC60 in a direct comparison, but it also costs more than the XC60 when comparably equipped.
The BMW X3 is another great pick for a small SUV. Like many entrants in the class, the X3 features an upscale interior and plenty of features. BMW gives you different engine options too. It offers a plug-in hybrid just like Volvo does, but it's not nearly as powerful as the XC60 Recharge. Overall, though, these two SUVs are pretty evenly matched.
If you like the XC60's appointments but don't necessarily need a high-riding SUV, you can save a few bucks by checking out the Volvo S60 instead. As the numerical designation suggests, the S60 sedan is quite similar to the XC60 and has the same engines and features.
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 XC60 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.7 out of 10. You probably care about Volvo XC60 fuel economy, so it's important to know that the XC60 gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the XC60 has 29.7 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Volvo XC60. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Volvo XC60?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Volvo XC60:
Former T8 plug-in hybrid is now called Recharge
Adaptive headlights, hands-free liftgate and rear USB-C ports added as standard
Part of the second XC60 generation introduced for 2018
To determine whether the Volvo XC60 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the XC60. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the XC60's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Volvo XC60 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Volvo XC60 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 XC60 and gave it a 7.7 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 XC60 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Volvo XC60?
The least-expensive 2021 Volvo XC60 is the 2021 Volvo XC60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Expression 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $53,500.
Other versions include:
Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 R-Design 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $59,650
Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $61,000
Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Expression 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $53,500
If you're interested in the Volvo XC60, the next question is, which XC60 model is right for you? XC60 variants include Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 R-Design 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A), Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A), and Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Expression 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A). For a full list of XC60 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
More about the 2021 Volvo XC60
2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid Overview
The 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid is offered in the following styles: Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 R-Design 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A), Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A), and Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Expression 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A).
What do people think of the 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for
the 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid and all its trim types.
Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what
other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database.
Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior,
exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a
comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 XC60 Hybrid.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 XC60 Hybrid featuring deep dives into trim levels including Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 R-Design, Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription, Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Expression, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid?
The 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $61,995. The average price paid for a new 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) is trending $4,250 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,250 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $57,745.
The average savings for the 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) is 6.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:
We are showing 5 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
The 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Expression 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $54,495. The average price paid for a new 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Expression 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) is trending $3,818 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3,818 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $50,677.
The average savings for the 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Expression 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) is 7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:
We are showing 2 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Expression 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrids are available in my area?
2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid Listings and Inventory
There are currently 23
new 2021 [object Object] XC60 Hybrids listed
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid and all available trim types: Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 R-Design, Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription, Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Expression. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2021 Volvo XC60 Hybrid?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you
that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make
higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand,
can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a
new car every three years or so.
