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2024 Volvo XC60 -- More 2024 Changes than What Meets the Eye! (7-Day Test)

George

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The 2024 Volvo XC60 is a midsize luxury SUV that has received updates for 2024, offering more than meets the eye in terms of technology, design tweaks, and electrified powertrains. It remains one of Volvo's best-selling models, balancing safety, comfort, and performance with an emphasis on sustainability through its hybrid and mild-hybrid systems. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the 2024 Volvo XC60:
1. Range (Fuel Economy & Electric Range)

Volvo XC60 Recharge (Plug-in Hybrid - PHEV):

The XC60 Recharge has an all-electric range of about 35-41 miles (~56-66 km) on a full charge, ideal for daily commuting.
The total range (electric + gasoline) is around 500 miles (~805 km) with the help of its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and battery.
In hybrid mode, fuel economy is estimated at 57 MPGe (2.3 L/100 km), combining electric and gas efficiency. In gasoline-only mode, it achieves around 27-30 mpg (7.8 L/100 km).

volvo xc60 plug in hybrid.jpg

Winner: The XC60 Recharge PHEV offers an excellent blend of electric and gasoline range, making it suitable for both short city trips and long-distance driving.
2. Site (Size & Interior Space)

Interior Space:
The 2024 Volvo XC60 seats five passengers comfortably and provides 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 63.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Its spacious cabin features high-quality materials such as leather, wood, and metal accents, emphasizing Scandinavian luxury. Legroom and headroom are sufficient for both front and rear passengers.

Winner:
The XC60 provides ample space for small families and couples, with a focus on comfort and practicality.
3. Battery

Battery Capacity:

The XC60 Recharge PHEV comes with an upgraded 18.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, which provides better electric-only range compared to previous models. The battery works in conjunction with the gasoline engine to improve efficiency and emissions.
Charging:
Charging the XC60 PHEV takes about 5-6 hours using a Level 2 charger at home. This provides enough electric range for daily commuting without relying on gasoline for shorter distances.

Winner: The 18.8 kWh battery in the XC60 Recharge offers a decent electric range, making it one of the more practical plug-in hybrids in its class.
4. Price

Starting Price:

The 2024 Volvo XC60 starts around $48,000 for the base trim (B5 mild-hybrid version) and can go up to around $71,000 for the top-tier Recharge T8 Polestar Engineered PHEV trim.
PHEV Version:
The XC60 Recharge starts at around $60,000, making it slightly more expensive than its mild-hybrid sibling but competitive with other plug-in hybrid luxury SUVs like the BMW X3 xDrive30e and Audi Q5 PHEV.

Winner: The XC60 offers a premium price range but provides a luxury experience with strong performance, hybrid efficiency, and a wide range of configurations.
5. Why Is It Better?

Electrification Options:

The XC60 offers both mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, providing flexibility for drivers who want either better fuel efficiency or the ability to drive short distances on electric power alone.
Safety Features:
Volvo’s IntelliSafe suite includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. The brand’s reputation for safety is a big selling point.
Luxury & Design:
The XC60’s interior design is minimalist and luxurious, featuring premium materials and a calm, uncluttered layout. The 9-inch vertical touchscreen is intuitive and integrates Google built-in services for navigation, apps, and voice control.
Sustainability:
Volvo focuses on sustainability by offering electrified options and using recycled materials in the vehicle’s construction, making the XC60 eco-friendly both in design and performance.

Winner: The XC60 Recharge is a well-rounded luxury SUV offering electrified efficiency, Volvo’s renowned safety technology, and Scandinavian design.
6. Range Price per 100 km

Electric Mode:
In electric-only mode, the XC60 Recharge consumes about 25-28 kWh/100 km. At an electricity price of around €0.20/kWh, this would cost around €5.00-5.60/100 km.
Hybrid Mode:
In hybrid mode, the XC60 achieves around 57 MPGe, or about 4.2 L/100 km. Assuming gasoline prices at €1.20/L, it would cost around €5.00/100 km.
Gasoline Mode:
In gasoline-only mode, with an efficiency of around 7.8 L/100 km, the cost would be approximately €9.36/100 km.

Winner: In both electric-only and hybrid modes, the XC60 Recharge is cost-effective for short and long trips, offering strong savings compared to gasoline-only SUVs.
7. Typical Problems

Battery & Charging:
Some users report slow charging times for the PHEV version, especially when using standard home outlets.
Infotainment System:
The Google-based infotainment system is generally well-liked but has occasionally received complaints about being slow or having connectivity issues with third-party apps.
Maintenance:
As a luxury SUV with a hybrid system, maintenance costs for the XC60 Recharge can be higher than standard gasoline models, especially for hybrid-related components.

Winner: Volvo’s reputation for reliability is strong, but battery degradation and infotainment glitches are potential issues with the PHEV version.
8. Sales & Market Availability

Sales:
The Volvo XC60 is one of the brand’s best-selling models, with strong sales in North America, Europe, and other major markets. The introduction of more electrified options has increased its appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
Availability:
The 2024 XC60 is available in a variety of trims and configurations, including the Recharge PHEV, which is widely sold in most markets that prioritize green technology.

Winner: The XC60 continues to sell well, especially with the growing demand for electrified SUVs and Volvo’s strong market presence.
9. What’s the Difference? (Compared to Previous Models & Competitors)

2024 Changes:
The 2024 XC60 features subtle design updates inside and out, but the most significant changes come in the form of enhanced electrification, with the XC60 Recharge offering better electric-only range than before (up to 41 miles).
Volvo’s Google-based infotainment system has been further improved for 2024, offering faster connectivity and additional features for apps and voice control.
Competitors:
Competing models include the BMW X3 xDrive30e, Audi Q5 TFSI e, and Mercedes-Benz GLC 300e. The XC60 Recharge stands out with a longer electric range and simpler, more refined interior design, though competitors offer sportier handling in some cases.
Previous Models:
Compared to earlier XC60s, the 2024 model offers better hybrid performance and more tech upgrades, including a longer electric range and improved driver assistance features.

Conclusion:

Range:
The XC60 Recharge PHEV offers a combined 500-mile range with an electric-only range of up to 41 miles, making it ideal for both daily commutes and long trips.
Battery & Efficiency: Its 18.8 kWh battery provides a strong electric range for a plug-in hybrid SUV, while fuel efficiency remains competitive in both hybrid and gasoline modes.
Price: Starting at $60,000 for the Recharge model, the XC60 is a mid-tier luxury SUV with premium features and efficient hybrid powertrains.
Luxury & Comfort: The interior is luxurious yet minimalist, with premium materials and a refined design that emphasizes comfort and functionality.
Potential Problems: While generally reliable, potential issues include battery degradation, slower charging, and occasional infotainment connectivity problems.

Final Thoughts:

The 2024 Volvo XC60 is an excellent choice for those seeking a luxurious, eco-friendly SUV with strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. Its combination of safety, comfort, electrification, and Scandinavian design makes it a standout in the competitive midsize luxury SUV segment.
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