Uncovering the Secrets of the 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge - The Perfect PHEV for Everyday?

Volvo's aggressive electrification strategy is in full force, something we've experienced for a while now on TestDrive. This week James gets behind the wheel of the 2023 Volvo XC60 T8 AWD to see what this PHEV has to offer in the luxury market.

Follow James over at Technically Cars on his channel here: @technicallycars

We've driven most of the Volvo PHEVs over the past few years, including a number of XC60s of all types. 2023 doesn't bring any real change over the last one we drove, but James gets the chance to experience this vehicle at the tail end of winter to see what Swedish luxury feels like. This XC60 T8 Ultimate has all the features and tech you'd expect at the price point along with the optional 22" rims and 4C air suspension as options.

James goes over the exterior design and features found on this 2023 Volvo XC60 T8 including some of his thoughts versus the other crossovers he's driven. He jumps inside to go over the layout and tech found on this compact luxury crossover including the Google built-in infotainment system. This XC60 T8 is good for about 53 kms of all-electric range, paired with the 2.0L Twin-Charged 4 cylinder engine, producing a total of 455 horsepower.

James then takes this vehicle on a real-world road test to go over how this vehicle drives, rides, handles, and everything else you'd be interested in knowing if you're in the market for this type of vehicle.

TestDrive is proudly produced in Elgin County, Ontario, Canada.

[somnumna]

I bought this exact car in black with 22 inch rims. After 3 months (15, 000km) and watching this review you pretty well nailed why I bought this over the common Euro luxury brands.
After test driving everything in the same price point it was my pick and I actually live driving it every day.

[briandutch]

I have this very car (an XC60 T8 Recharge Ultimate) coming next month with those 22’s! Those are flared fenders btw that the 22’s get you. FYI, a correction to a statement you made. PURE mode is the electric only mode. I currently have a 2021 T6 R-Design which I love. The seats, the ergonomics, the refinement, the materials, and especially that Bowers & Wilkins sound system make for the most amazingly pleasurable driving environment. You can keep your GV-70, X3, Macan, etc. I’ve tried them all and none measure up to features and enjoyment of this vehicle.

[imadkerl]

What I really like about it is the smooth driving experience with the air supension, the engines synchronization. I just love it :) But As you mentionned regarding this volvo vehicle there are some points to improve, such as a physical button for switching the driving mode!

[talkdeborah]

My 2023 xc60 t8 does have vents (video stated there were none) for the rear seats. They are on the door frame between front and rear doors.

[thorbjornkirkeleit]

Just a note. The Pure driving mode will use electrical motors more than in hybrid mode. Both modes is hybrid and switches back and forth based on demand but it will stay in electric longer in pure before turning the ICE Engine on :)

[AL-kckg]

Great review, you deserve more subs! It’s actually a lifted hatchback😂, not sure about the price but would look nice if it’s lowered.

[WelcomeBrela]

There are volume controls on the middle console so the passenger can use them

[manoz]

This is my dream car, and in that colour! But I would probably go with the lower spec T6

[gene]

I am watching this after the Ionic 6 review and for the 30K Difference I know which one I would go for unless you absolutely need the extra room. Then I would be looking at EV6 or Ionic 5

[technicallycars]

What do we think about the Volvo XC60? as you can probably tell i loved it!

[zeedustrakok]

Not the biggest fan of the XC60. I went for the V60 since I am no fan of the SUVs. That being said. I am about to take delivery of a 2021 XC60 T6 hybrid as a temporary car while waiting for my V60. I did however pick the T6 hybrid since I do think that is sufficient.
On the car itself: I do regret Volvo cutting costs and deleting items. The mode selector, the 40/20/40 seats I had on my previous generation V60, the useful buttons on the steering wheel. My biggest disappointment is the Google infotainment.
The bigger transmission tunnel is a pro for me since it allows for a bigger fuel tank. I rarely carry 4 passengers and if I do those are kids.
The main advantage: the power and I know I’ll enjoy my comfortable massaging and ventilated seats.

[stewarty]

don't forget not everyone is in race mode at the light. I got one and yes it is fast

[garrydick]

What do you think about Lexus 350 compared to the Volvo?

[piffe]

The instrument panel is completely non-pedagogical.
They forgot to note that the watch fits completely badly.
The ventilation controls cannot be angled properly.
The driving record is completely useless.
Loud noise in the cup for being a premium car.
Center console wrongly angled.
There are a thousand other little things.

Volvo has lost its soul.

Have a Volvo XC60 T6 Hybrid, guaranteed to be the last one.