2022 Volvo XC60 Recharge

The plug-in hybrid Volvo XC60 Recharge is an exceptional luxury compact crossover SUV. Under the hood, you'll find Volvo's familiar T8 powertrain that combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with electric power. A new, extended-range battery and more powerful rear electric motor are available this year, taking outputs to a mighty 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, reducing the 0-60 sprint to only 4.5 seconds. With this powertrain, the all-electric range jumps to 35 miles. Those numbers move the latest XC60 ahead of competition like the Audi Q5 Hybrid. With nimble handling, a smooth drive, a superb safety reputation, and a magnificent cabin, the XC60 Recharge is the antithesis to SUVs that try to be sports cars, which is perhaps what makes it so good.

In our previous review of the Volvo XC60 Recharge hybrid, we felt it was one of the best in this class, and with more power and a better all-electric range than before, we have even more reason to like it. Performance is pleasing, the drive is sporty enough for the class despite the added weight from the hybrid components, and the cabin is comfortable and serene. It's decently fuel-efficient too, with gas mileage figures of up to 63 MPGe; this compares favorably to the Audi Q5 hybrid's 61 MPGe, and the Volvo easily has a better all-electric range. The XC60 Recharge's powertrain specs are now even better, with a muscular 455 hp with the upgraded T8. We're big fans of the clean-cut elegance the Scandinavian designers have pulled off with the XC60 while still prioritizing superb levels of comfort. And, with a comprehensive safety suite, the XC60 Recharge's Top Safety Pick+ rating is well justified. This is a well-rounded vehicle as there's no compromise required in any particular area; the balance between luxury, performance, and efficiency comes together sweetly in one Swedish package.

With the Inscription Expression trim added to the lineup not long ago, buyers in the USA can now get a Volvo XC60 Recharge Hybrid at a starting price of $54,250, which is below the Audi Q5 PHEV's $55,400.

The mid-spec siblings, the R-Design and Inscription boast an MSRP of $60,400 and $61,750, respectively. The performance-oriented Polestar Engineered will cost you $69,500. For the upgraded T8 powertrain with the extended-range battery, expect to pay $500 more. This is well worth it, as far as we're concerned.

Prices exclude a destination and handling fee of $1,095.