What is the AAA Car Guide?
Volvo S60 Recharge Ultimate Black Edition
Category Ranking : 1
Score : 85.62
Vehicle Type | Base Price | Price As Tested | Sedan Electric | $57,950 | $63,690 |
|---|
Overall Observations
The S60 Recharge sedan has a simple, stylish exterior that’s typical Volvo. But, in fact, the plug-in hybrid S60 is a muscle car disguised as a mild-mannered Scandinavian luxury sedan.
The S60’s turbocharged 4-cylinder engine combines with an electric motor to produce 455 hp, which provides quick, responsive acceleration. It’s also good for a strong EV-only range of 41 miles and an overall range of 530 miles.
The S60’s minimalist interior is replete with high-quality materials, including an Orrefors crystal shift knob. Overall fit and finish are excellent, and a comprehensive set of advanced safety features is standard. The S60’s sport-tuned suspension delivers a comfortable-albeit firm-ride. Entry and exit from the front seats is easy, but back-seat room is a little tight. Visibility all around is good, although the rearview camera provides an odd, “fish-eye” perspective. All-wheel drive is standard.
On the downside, the S60 isn’t as engaging to drive as some competitors; its steering feels light and loose, and there’s little feedback from the road. Also, the center console could use some knobs and hard keys instead of inconvenient touch-screen-based controls. Trunk and interior-storage space is limited, and the S60’s maximum onboard charger rate is about half that of some competitors.
VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS
Model year tested:
2023Number of passengers (F/R)
2/3Curb weight (lbs):
4,452Exterior L / W / H (in):
188.1/5.4/56.6Wheelbase (in):
133.1Number of airbags:
8Warranty (month/miles) :
48/50,000Tire manufacturer and model :
Pirelli P ZeroFront and rear tire size :
235/40 R19Max towing capacity (lbs) :
2,000Headlight type:
LEDTransmission type:
Hybrid DriveDrivetrain type:
All wheelEngine/motor:
2.0L I4 TurboElectric motor horsepower:
143Combined system horsepower:
455Engine horsepower @RPM:
312 @ 6,000
FUEL INFORMATION
TEST DATA/TEST VEHICLE SCORES
(0-10 POINTS)
(0-10 POINTS)
TEST DATA/TEST VEHICLE SCORES
PROS
- PHEV drivetrain provides quick, responsive acceleration
- The exterior and interior are stylish in an understated way
- Useful EV-only range; overall range of 500-plus miles
- High-quality interior fit and finish
CONS
- Unengaging driving experience; loose steering, little feedback
- Nonintuitive, touch-screen-based infotainment/ feature controls
- Limited trunk and interior storage space
- Slow onboard charging capacity
AAA’s Recommendation: Whether you own an electric vehicle or a gas-powered car is up to you – and you should consider lots of factors in making that choice. No matter what type of vehicle you’re choosing, we recommend visiting a dealership, test driving one, and asking as many questions as possible to make an informed decision.
