The Volvo XC60 Is a Hybrid That Those with Hybrid and Electrical Mechanic Training Should Know About
It’s no secret that hybrid cars are becoming more and more popular. Manufacturers are coming out with various models, equipped with compelling features and the latest tech to offer a comfortable, efficient, and environmentally-conscious driving experience.
The Volvo XC60 is a great example—a hybrid plug-in that serves as an efficient luxurious SUV through its sleek design and some upgraded specs. Compared to the XC40 and the XC90, this new model works as the halfway point in terms of size and price. Here’s an inside look into some of the release’s top features.
A Sleek and Luxurious Design with a Personal Touch
With the release of the XC60 Recharge, Volvo presents a luxurious SUV that can compete with its rivals. The interior boasts elegant styling—with driftwood inlays, an artisanal gear shifter made of genuine Swedish crystal, and comfortable seats with cushion extension, additional side and lumbar support, and even massage features. The model also includes high-quality speakers and an open-and-tilt panoramic roof for an enjoyable driving experience.
Those in hybrid and electrical mechanic training might be interested to know that the XC60 Recharge can be personalized with the option to choose Inscription for luxurious comfort, or R-Design for a sportier feel. It also includes the addition of high-tech features, like a 9-inch touchscreen display, lane keeping assist, and remote setting modifications via the Volvo On Call app, allowing pre-heat or pre-cool functions before driving.
A Deeper Look into the Inside Specs
A great feature is the ability to change the drive mode—with drivers being able to choose between pure electric, hybrid, and power (with an additional AWD mode)—helping to optimize traction and decrease tailpipe emissions. According to the manufacturer, a full charge is enough to support daily commuting via electric motor, with the normal range being 20-40 km for the XC60.
The XC60 offers four powertrain options: T5, T6, T8, and T8 Polestar. All engines include an eight-speed automatic transmission, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder on the T5 model to produce 251 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 model is a better choice for more power, working only with AWD to increase output to 315 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T6 also sees the 0-60 time dropping to 6.1 seconds (compared to the T5’s 6.5-second speed).
Ultimately, the T8 option is best for fuel efficiency, using an 11.6 kW-hr battery and a twin-charged 2.0-liter to produce 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, taking the 0-60 time down to a tidy 5.4 seconds in the XC60 T8 Inscription model. Despite its power, any hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic will be interested to learn that the hybrid powertrain is not considered the best feature of the XC60.
New Features to Explore for the Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Mechanic
It’s notable to mention that the XC60 comes with various safety tech installed, as well as an advanced filtration system to promote high air quality. This includes a new Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™), 360-degree camera coverage, and driver-assist functions that provide safety alerts or help maneuver drivers out of tricky spaces. All of these features serve to promote safety for drivers and passengers on the road, wrapping up an impressive overall package for this Volvo hybrid plug-in.
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