Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge is worth consideration
We really do enjoy getting behind the wheel of a Volvo. We just like the way they look, we enjoy the interior design and the overall driving experience is great. We were recently handed the keys to the updated XC60, the brand’s midsize SUV. This one however features something which really impressed us…
Volvo's XC60 T8 Recharge is a Plug-in-Hybrid which makes it the ideal option for future mobility in a South African context. The XC60 T8 Recharge is powered by a petrol engine and an electric battery. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder internal combustion engine is both turbo- and supercharged and linked with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels. Working with the electric battery, the total system output for this SUV is 340kW and 709Nm.
Expectedly, performance is impressive, and this 2 150kg XC60 can clear 0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds. The motor offers an old-school growl under aggressive throttle but then, when needed, the XC60 Recharge can offer virtual silence when only the rear-mounted electric motor is running in Pure mode which offers up to 81 km of emission-free driving thanks to the 18.8 kWh triple-layer battery pack. With the Volvo, you can engage battery recharging at the press of a button when driving - all the while using as little fuel as possible.
On the exterior, the XC60 T8 features a sleek and modern design with an aggressive front end, muscular wheel arches, and a bright chrome finish. Furthermore, the design is aerodynamic so as to reduce wind noise and drag. The iconic Thor's Hammer LED headlights are a highlight for us. Our only concern however is that the vehicle, overall, has been around for a number of years and the design, while still appealing, is getting a bit dated when compared to competitors.
The interior of the XC60 T8 is just as impressive as the exterior. The XC60 is packed with features, including a panoramic sunroof, an intuitive infotainment system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. It features a luxurious cabin with leather seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a two-zone climate control system. The XC60 also boasts a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster along with a 9-inch Sensus infotainment system.
In terms of safety, the XC60 T8 is equipped with the latest active safety features from Volvo. These include blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The XC60 T8 also features Volvo's City Safety system, which can detect pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals and automatically brake when necessary.
Overall, the Volvo XC60 T8 is a luxurious five-seater crossover SUV that provides a great driving experience. It has a stylish exterior, comfortable interior and advanced technology that make it an ideal choice for those looking for a premium vehicle. With its impressive performance, fuel efficiency and safety features, the XC60 T8 is a great option for those looking for a reliable and luxurious mid size SUV.
