First Look Review: The 2024 Volvo XC60 Hybrid is quintessentially Scandinavian

The second-generation Volvo XC60, introduced in March 2017 as a 2018 model, recently received an update to become a 2024 model year vehicle. Like all the other new Volvo cars sold in the U.S., the 2024 XC60 comes solely with electrified powertrains, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid to be specific. I recently got to explore the 2024 Volvo XC60 Hybrid in detail. Here’s an overview of the new model, along with my first impressions of the Swedish compact-to-midsize SUV:

Design

The 2024 model year update is the usual yearly revision, not including a design change. Even though the design is getting a little old, I think the 2024 Volvo XC60 Hybrid continues exuding the unmistakable Scandinavian style and quality, which gives the SUV a modern-tough character.

On the outside, the 2024 Volvo XC60 Hybrid features full-LED headlights with T-shaped, ‘Thor’s Hammer’ daytime running lights, and L-shaped tail lamps. I think the SUV looks smart and just aggressive enough from the front, while muscular yet sporty on the sides. However, I am not all that fond of the rear, mainly because of the L-shaped tail lamps.

Multiple wheel choices in 18-, 19-, 20-, 21-, and 22-inch sizes are available, and my pick would be the 20-inch six-spoke unit, which I think leads to a good balance of style, ride quality, and efficiency. I noticed that the tailpipes are hidden behind the rear bumper. While likely not intentional, I see this as a sign that Volvo Cars is preparing customers for the next-gen XC60, which would include an all-electric variant.

The 2024 Volvo XC60 Hybrid is available in a new Black Edition styling option, which gives it a stealth-like appearance. Black Edition is available as an upgrade on the Ultimate trim for USD 1,100. It combines the Onyx Black paint with a gloss black Iron Mark logo, 21-inch gloss black five-double-spoke wheels, and gloss black Volvo wordmark.

Interior

When I sat in the 2024 Volvo XC60 Hybrid, its reductive design imparted an uncluttered, calm feeling. The sea of premium materials, including wood decor, crystal gear shifter, as well as various intricately detailed touchpoints, gave me a sense of luxury in a subtle manner.

The main highlights on the inside are a 12-inch digital instrument cluster with Calm and Navi display modes, a head-up display, and a 9-inch portrait center display. The infotainment system, usable via the center display, is powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS and supports OTA updates. It’s possible to use the infotainment system with simple “Hey Google” voice commands. The infotainment system features built-in Google Maps and Google Play Store as well.

Powertrain

2024 Volvo XC60 Mild-Hybrid

The 2024 Volvo XC60 Mild-Hybrid uses a 2.0-liter gas engine with a 13-hp Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). The gas engine produces 247 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. A 48-volt battery pack stores the energy recovered during braking, and the ISG gives the gas engine a boost with this power when needed and possible.

An 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system work together to send drive to the wheels. The 2024 XC60 Mild-Hybrid returns an EPA-est. fuel economy of 22 MPG (city)/28 MPG (highway)/25 MPG (combined). There’s no FWD drivetrain layout option like in the previous model.

Aspect	2024 Volvo XC60 B5 AWD Specification
Drivetrain Layout	AWD
Displacement	2.0L
Charging System	Turbocharger
Electrification Level	Mild-Hybrid
Power	247 hp
Torque	258 lb.-ft.
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Drivetrain Layout	AWD
Torque	258 lb.-ft.
EPA-est. Fuel Economy	22 MPG (city)/28 MPG (highway)/25 MPG (combined).
EPA-est. Fuel Consumption	4.0 gal/100mi

2024 Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid

The plug-in version of the 2024 Volvo XC60 clubs a 2.0L gasoline engine with an electric motor and produces 455 hp of combined power and 523 lb.-ft. of system torque. The electric motor, mounted at the rear, draws energy from an 18.8 kWh battery pack consisting of three cell layers. The net or usable capacity of this battery pack is 14.9 kWh, though. That’s enough to provide a practical EV mode range of 36 miles (EPA-est.), sufficient for most daily trips in the city.

Aspect\Specification	2024 Volvo XC60 PHEV
Displacement	2.0L
Forced induction	Drive-E Supercharger & Turbocharger
Electrification Level	Plug-in Hybrid
Total Power	455 hp
Total Torque	523 lb.-ft.
Battery Pack	14.9 kWh (net)/18.8 kWh (gross)
EPA-est. Electric Range	36 miles
EPA-est. Fuel Consumption	63 MPGe (gas + electricity)/28 MPG (gas)

Production

For global markets, including the U.S., Volvo Cars builds the XC60 at the Torslanda plant in Sweden. For China, Zhongjia Automobile Manufacturing manufactures the XC60 in China at the Chengdu plant. Zhejiang Haoqing Automobile Manufacturing, owned by Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, conducts final testing, and then the units are sent to Volvo Cars. The production locations have remained unchanged in the 2024 model year.

Price & Release Date

The prices of the 2024 Volvo XC60 Hybrid start at USD 46,900 for the mild-hybrid variant and USD 57,900 for the plug-in hybrid variant. Volvo Cars levies a destination fee of USD 1,295 across the line-up.

TopElectricSUV says

I think the Volvo XC60 Hybrid is a great all-rounder with plenty of style, space, and safety. The mid-size luxury SUV offers an impressive electric range of 36 miles, letting customers use it practically as an EV daily.

Also Read: First Look Review: 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge

2024 Volvo XC60 Hybrid FAQs