Plug-in hybrid Volvo XC60 Recharge debuts as range’s flagship

Having announced pricing for the updated XC60 range earlier this month, Volvo has now confirmed availability of the plug-in hybrid Recharge derivative.

Officially the firm’s third plugged-in model after the XC90 T8 and the all-electric XC40 P8 Recharge, the XC60 Recharge arrives with little to distinguish itself from its mild-hybrid sibling, bar the inclusion of a secondary flap on the front wing that hides the charging port.

Available in R-Design and Inscription trim levels, the XC60 Recharge combines the familiar 2.0 Drive-E turbo-and-supercharged petrol engine with a rear axle mounted 18.8-kWh battery that drives a 107 kW electric motor for a combined system output of 228 kW.

Paired to the equally acquainted eight-speed Geartronic gearbox with drive going to all four wheels, the XC60 Recharge will sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and top out at 180 km/h. The claimed all-electric range is 81 km.

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Joining the regular XC60, and indeed the XC90, in being equipped with Google’s latest Android operating system for the Sensus Connect infotainment display, the XC60 Recharge comes as standard with amongst others, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone charging and up to 19-inch alloy wheels.

Notable optional items are 22-inch alloy wheels, air suspension and the upgraded Harman Kardon sound system.

Priced at R1 218 900 for the R-Design and at R1 222 500 for the Inscription, the Recharge, the like of the rest of the XC60 range, is covered by a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. 

Our review on the XC90 T8 can be read here.