The Volvo XC60 T8 boasts a 400hp-plus plug-in hybrid, semi-autonomous driving capability and eye-catching prices. Is there a caveat to it?
What’s new?
The all-new XC60 becomes the third Volvo in Thailand to get a plug-in hybrid option following the XC90 SUV and S90 executive saloon.
Like in its 90 Series cousins, the T8 model of the XC60 employs the same so-called Twin Engine drivetrain that couples a turbo and supercharged 2.0-litre petrol engine (driving the front wheels) to an electric motor (propelling the rear ones).
Likewise, the 4WD T8 gets an eight-speed automatic transmission and lithium-ion battery packed longitudinally within the central part of the cabin.
As part of Volvo’s drive in making its cars safer on the road, the T8 comes with semi-autonomous driving capability. Apart from the long list of safety features, there’s also fancy stuff like a glass roof.
The XC60 T8 is priced at 3.29 million baht in Momentum spec and an additional 300k for the sporty R-Design trim, as tested here. Well-equipped for the price, for a start.
What’s cool?
With three kinds of forced-fed systems for the 2.0-litre four-cylinder, you really can’t deny that the T8 is fast SUV. With over 400 ponies at your disposal, the T8 simply accelerates away from standstill like how a Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe or Porsche Macan S would do.
Okay, we aren’t going to challenge the on-paper merits of plug-in hybrids because claims like a 47.6kpl fuel economy seem unrealistic on the road. However, it must be commended that the T8’s all-electric driving range of 45kpl is quite long when compared to all other plug-in hybrids currently on sale in Thailand, be it from whichever class.
And there’s the R-Design spec to yearn for. Virtually all testers from the Thai motoring media gave the thumbs up to the 19-inch wheels and the beautifully tailored seats inside this particularly specced XC60. In one way or the other, R-Design works with a powerful car like this.
What’s not?
While there isn’t really much to complain about in the XC60, there are a few pronounced shortcomings. And both pertain to the driving characteristics.
Like in several other plug-in hybrids with energy-regenerative braking systems, the pedal feel is woefully on the wooden side. Even after hours driving it, the XC60’s brakes aren’t easy to modulate for smooth deceleration.
And although the handling could have been a little sharper in the most aggressive driving mode to really suit the performance status of the T8, the ride is flawed by being quite restless even under cruising.
Yes, it feels even more unsettled that in the diesel-powered D4 we tested last month. Which means that the T8 may be as quick as that aforementioned Merc and Porsche in a straight line, but in absolutely no way can it match them for dynamic ability.
Bye of bye?
It comes to no surprise why Volvo hopes to see its plug-in hybrids comprising at least 70% of total sales this year. And the XC60 T8 is a no better position to deliver this task. It’s not just for the fact that it is the only plug-in hybrid available in the premium mid-size SUV class but also for its super-keen prices.
The XC60 T8 offers unrivalled performance, all-electric driving ability and kit in the three to 3.5 million baht sector of luxury SUVs. Shame that the driving manners are a little too flawed for us to confidently recommend this particular XC60.
