I’m a Volvo fan, I’ll admit. My family owns a 2022 XC90 SUV, and I’ve spent considerable time in all automaker’s vehicles. So, I was excited to see a new Volvo XC60 Recharge pull into my driveway, right at a time when gas prices were peaking and the Maine summer road trip season was in full swing.

The XC60 slots into Volvo’s catalog between the compact XC40 and three-row XC90. It’s been a fixture in the automaker’s lineup since 2009 and is in its second generation since an overhaul in 2018. Volvo dropped the T5 and T6 powertrain choices in favor of two “B” options. The B5 features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 247 horsepower, but our test vehicle came with the remaining “T” powertrain.

The T8 offers a plug-in hybrid system with up to 35 miles of electric range. It’s paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. In motion, the powertrain transitions flawlessly between the gas engine and hybrid system, and the package remains quiet at all times.

The XC60’s ride is serene and silent, as expected from a Volvo. There’s not much body roll in curves, and the SUV feels surprisingly lively for what it is. That said, there should not be an expectation of sportiness or engagement here. The XC60 is steadfastly a sedate family hauler and remains so, even in higher trims with more aggressive styling.
Up to five people can ride comfortably in the XC60, though four will find the space more accommodating. Our test SUV came fitted with tweed upholstery and heated front seats, but Volvo offers leather and ventilation in higher trim levels. Volvo’s front seats are works of art and provide excellent grip with the tweed upholstery. Adjustments for thigh support, bolstering, and lumbar let passengers dial in their preferred comfort level, and outward visibility is excellent in all directions.

Volvo overhauled its infotainment system for the new model year, implementing an Android-based interface. The system is not radically different from years before, but the transition to Android helped smooth some rough edges and greatly improved transitions, responsiveness, and usability. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and Volvo offers a Harman Kardon sound system in higher trims.

Safety is a priority for Volvo, and it’s the most awarded brand with more IIHS Top Safety Pick + awards for 2022 than any other automaker. That includes the XC60, which earned “Good” scores in all crash test categories, an “Acceptable” score for headlights, “Superior” scores for vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian crash prevention, and an “Acceptable” score for LATCH (car seat anchor) ease of use. It’s worth noting that the IIHS is changing its criteria for 2023 to include more rigorous nighttime testing, so Volvo’s awards may change with new tests.

Volvo isn’t as popular as BMW, Audi, or Mercedes-Benz, but the automaker offers a refreshing alternative to German luxury cars. Scandinavian style, capable powertrains, and stellar safety scores should all make Volvo a top pick on many luxury buyers’ shopping lists. The XC60 Recharge is no exception, and its all-electric range means that many people can avoid gas stations for extended periods without a problem. Its segment may have flashier choices, but it’s hard to beat the XC60’s mix of features and style.