As a car enthusiast who values both performance and sustainability, I was eager to test drive the 2023 Volvo S60 Recharge. With its impressive combination of power and efficiency, this plug-in hybrid sedan stands out in the luxury market. And with a PHEV range of up to 40 miles in pure electric mode, you can drive guilt-free. Not to mention, the sleek exterior design and luxurious interior make this car a true gem. Get ready to take control of the road in style.

Key Takeaways

The 2023 S60 Recharge T8 AWD Black Edition features new exterior design elements such as a new front bumper, grille emblem with radar integration, and a dark theme grille design.
It is powered by a 2.0-liter Turbocharged engine coupled with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. It also offers eAWD capability and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The PHEV range of the S60 Recharge T8 AWD Black Edition is up to 64 kilometers (40 miles) in Pure mode.
The interior of the S60 Recharge T8 AWD Black Edition boasts a clean and modern Scandinavian design with features like Nappa Leather and leatherette upholstery, a 12.3-inch digital driver display, and an advanced air purifier system. It also offers advanced multimedia features such as a nine-inch tablet-style touchscreen and Google Built-in and Apple CarPlay integration.

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Pricing and Options

In Canada, the 2023 Volvo S60 T8 Recharge has a starting price of $54,950 for the Core trim, the Plus trim starts at $64,000 and the Ultimate trim starts at $71,200. These prices do not include Freight & PDI of $2,620, other fees, and taxes. The S60 T8 also qualifies for Federal and Provincial (not available in all provinces) EV rebates. Please click here for US prices.

Performance and Range

The Volvo S60 Recharge T8 AWD is the plug-in version of one of our favorite sports sedans, the S60 B5 AWD. Like the B5, the S60 T8 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, but the T8 benefits from an electric motor, for a combined output of 455 horsepower and *523 pound-feet of torque (*Volvo’s Canadian website says it’s 523 Nm, but all the reviewers say it’s 523 lb.-ft.) Either way, the S60 T8 “ain’t your mamma’s hybrid,” it’s a proper sports sedan.

Volvo S60 T8 Specs per Volvo Canada website 1 — source

All this power helps S60 Recharge do the 0 – 100 km/h sprint in 4.5 seconds (0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds), rivaling the performance of the BMW M340i and Mercedes-AMG C43.

The powertrain calibration ensures smooth and seamless power delivery, providing a sense of control and exhilaration behind the wheel. Switching between the electric motor and gasoline engine is seamless and at speed you don’t notice it at all. However, if the batteries are full and you’re just driving normally, the electric motor does all the work.

In terms of electric range, the S60 Recharge offers a claimed range of 64 kilometers (40 miles) of all-electric driving; however, during the week we tested the S60 T8, we saw a range of 75 kilometers on the onboard computer. The temperature was warm, so the range will reduce with winter temperatures and the use of the cabin heater. Over a year of driving in the winter and summer, should average out the average electric driving range to the claimed number of 64 kilometers, which is great.

This allows for efficient and emissions-free commuting, making it a great option for those who desire a greener driving experience. The electric range has increased from the previous model, offering even more flexibility and convenience.

Exterior Features

The S60 Recharge T8 AWD Black Edition features a new front bumper design that adds a fresh look to the overall exterior. One notable aspect of the exterior is the dark theme grille design, which adds a sleek and sophisticated touch to the car’s appearance. The grille emblem integrates a front-looking radar, enhancing the car’s safety features.

Additionally, the hidden tailpipes contribute to the overall clean and streamlined design of the rear of the vehicle. The rear bumper insert further adds to the aesthetic appeal of the car, complementing the overall design language.

These exterior features combine to create a visually appealing and modern look for the S60 Recharge T8 AWD Black Edition. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle with a bold presence or prefer a more understated elegance, the exterior design of the S60 Recharge T8 AWD Black Edition offers a versatile and stylish option.

Interior Features

You’d be forgiven for mistaking the interior of the S60 for any of the other models produced by Volvo. This is not necessarily a bad thing; Volvo interiors are simple and elegant and they work just fine. Volvo’s minimalist interior philosophy was ahead of its time; now, most automakers use similar designs by completely removing or just having a few physical buttons.

The main infotainment screen is a 9” vertically placed unit. The infotainment system is easy to use and is relatively responsive; the graphics are crisp and look modern. The gauge cluster features a 12.4” digital display, which is also easy on the eyes. Unlike some competitors, there isn’t any customization available on this screen.

The interior materials are high quality, mostly soft plastics, and some metal trim. The seats are incredibly comfortable, which is a signature Volvo feature, and look quite sporty. I found more than enough room in the front seats; the rear seats were also comfortable and had a few inches of spare leg room for my 5’ 8” frame. This is a small car, so people over 6’ will find the back seat tight in the leg and headroom departments.

Multimedia and Safety

Continuing the discussion of interior features, I must highlight the impressive multimedia and safety offerings in the S60 Recharge T8 AWD Black Edition. This model is equipped with cutting-edge technology that enhances both convenience and security on the road.

Here are the key features that will surely evoke a sense of control in the audience:

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Volvo’s latest ADAS technology is integrated into the S60 Recharge T8 AWD Black Edition, providing a range of safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These systems work together to enhance the driver’s control and awareness, making every journey safer.
Google Built-in integration: With Google Built-in integration, drivers can seamlessly connect their smartphones to the S60 Recharge T8’s multimedia system. This allows for easy access to apps like Google Maps, Spotify, and messaging services, providing a personalized and intuitive user experience.

These multimedia and safety features in the S60 Recharge T8 demonstrate Volvo’s commitment to providing a technologically advanced and secure driving experience. Whether you’re looking for convenience, control, or peace of mind, this model delivers on all fronts.

Upscale PHEVs for Car Buyers

In the automotive landscape, upscale PHEVs have become increasingly popular among car buyers looking for a blend of performance and sustainability. The affluent market, in particular, is drawn to these vehicles for their ability to provide a luxurious driving experience while also reducing their carbon footprint.

One factor that plays into the appeal of upscale PHEVs is the availability of charging infrastructure. Many car buyers aren’t yet comfortable going all-electric due to concerns about range anxiety and the lack of widespread charging stations. With PHEVs, drivers have the option to rely on the combustion engine for longer trips while still enjoying the benefits of electric driving for daily commuting.

Another aspect that car buyers consider when comparing powertrains is performance. Upscale PHEVs like the Volvo S60 AWD Recharge offer impressive power and acceleration, often surpassing their non-hybrid counterparts. This makes them an attractive option for those who want both sustainability and a thrilling driving experience.

Final Thoughts

The 2023 S60 Recharge T8 AWD is an excellent sports sedan, that’s not only fun to drive but is also “green” with its plug-in hybrid powertrain. Its impressive power and performance, combined with a generous electric range, make it a top choice for eco-conscious drivers who still crave an exhilarating driving experience.

The sleek exterior design and luxurious interior further enhance its appeal, while the advanced tech features add convenience and entertainment. Overall, the S60 Recharge T8 AWD Black Edition is a remarkable vehicle that offers the perfect balance of power, performance, and luxury.