Review: 2022 Volvo S60 III Recharge 2.0 T6 (350 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid AWD Geartronic

Introduction

The 2022 Volvo S60 III Recharge is a plug-in hybrid sedan that combines luxury, performance, and eco-friendliness. With its advanced hybrid technology, this car is designed to offer a smooth and efficient driving experience. Whether you're navigating city streets or embarking on a long road trip, the S60 Recharge aims to meet a variety of driving needs. In this review, we'll explore the car's features, performance, and suitability for different lifestyles.

Definitions

Before diving into the specifics, let's clarify some key terms:

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV): A car that uses both a traditional internal combustion engine and an electric motor, which can be recharged by plugging into an external power source.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD): A drivetrain configuration where power is delivered to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability.
Geartronic: Volvo's automatic transmission system that allows for manual gear selection if desired.

Main Content

Performance and Efficiency

The Volvo S60 Recharge is powered by a combination of a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and an electric motor, delivering a total of 350 horsepower. This setup allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in just 5.3 seconds, making it a quick and responsive vehicle. The maximum speed is capped at 180 km/h (111.85 mph), which is more than sufficient for most driving conditions.

One of the standout features of the S60 Recharge is its impressive fuel efficiency. With a combined fuel consumption of just 0.7-1.1 liters per 100 km (336.02 - 213.83 US mpg), this car is incredibly economical, especially for a vehicle of its size and power. The CO2 emissions are also remarkably low, ranging from 16 to 25 g/km, aligning with the Euro 6d emission standard.

Electric and Hybrid Features

The S60 Recharge boasts a gross battery capacity of 18.8 kWh, with a net usable capacity of 14.9 kWh. This allows for an all-electric range of 75-94 km (46.6 - 58.41 miles), making it ideal for short commutes and city driving. The electric motor, located on the rear axle, provides 145 horsepower and 309 Nm of torque, contributing to the car's overall performance.

Space and Comfort

Inside, the S60 Recharge offers a comfortable and spacious environment for up to five passengers. The trunk space is 390 liters (13.77 cu. ft.), which is adequate for everyday use and short trips. The car's dimensions, including a length of 4778 mm (188.11 in.) and a wheelbase of 2872 mm (113.07 in.), ensure a stable and smooth ride.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

City Driving: The S60 Recharge is well-suited for urban environments, thanks to its compact size, excellent fuel efficiency, and electric-only driving mode, which reduces emissions and noise.
Long-Distance Travel: With a comfortable interior and efficient fuel consumption, this car is a great choice for road trips. However, the limited trunk space might be a consideration for those needing to carry a lot of luggage.
Family Use: While the S60 Recharge can accommodate a small family, those with larger families might find the space a bit restrictive, especially in terms of cargo capacity.
Single Ownership: Ideal for singles or couples who value performance and eco-friendliness, the S60 Recharge offers a perfect blend of luxury and practicality.
Adventure Lifestyles: The AWD system provides good traction for light off-road conditions, but the car's low ground clearance and limited cargo space may not be ideal for more rugged adventures.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:
- Excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions
- Strong performance with quick acceleration
- Luxurious and comfortable interior
- Advanced hybrid technology with a decent electric range
Weaknesses:
- Limited trunk space for larger families or long trips
- Not ideal for extreme off-road conditions

Conclusion

The 2022 Volvo S60 III Recharge is a versatile and efficient plug-in hybrid sedan that caters to a wide range of driving needs. Its combination of performance, luxury, and eco-friendliness makes it an attractive option for those seeking a modern and responsible vehicle. When considering your next car purchase, think about what features matter most to you. Do you prioritize fuel efficiency, performance, or space?

Car Specifications

Attribute	Details
Brand	Volvo
Model	S60
Generation	S60 III
Modification (Engine)	Recharge 2.0 T6 (350 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid AWD Geartronic
Powertrain Architecture	PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Body Type	Sedan
Seats	5
Doors	4
Combined Fuel Consumption	0.7-1.1 l/100 km
CO2 Emissions	16-25 g/km
Fuel Type	Petrol / electricity
Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	5.3 sec
Maximum Speed	180 km/h
Emission Standard	Euro 6d
Battery Voltage	Not specified
Battery Technology	Lithium-ion (Li-Ion)
Electric Motor Power	145 Hp
Electric Motor Torque	309 Nm
Engine Displacement	1969 cm3
Number of Cylinders	4
Engine Configuration	Inline
Power Output	253 Hp
Torque	350 Nm
Compression Ratio	10.3:1
Fuel Injection System	Direct injection
Engine Aspiration	Turbocharger, Intercooler
Kerb Weight	2039 kg
Max Load	461 kg
Trunk Space (Minimum)	390 l
Fuel Tank Capacity	60 l
Length	4778 mm
Width	1850 mm
Height	1426 mm
Wheelbase	2872 mm
Drive Wheel System	All wheel drive (4x4)
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)	8 gears, automatic transmission Geartronic
Front Suspension	Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer
Rear Suspension	Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring
Front Brakes	Disc, 296x28-371x32 mm
Rear Brakes	Disc, 302x12-320x20 mm
Assisting Systems	ABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power Steering	Electric Steering
Tire Size	215/60 R16; 225/50 R17; 235/45 R18; 235/40 R19; 245/35 R20
Wheel Rims Size	7J x 16; 7J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 19; 8J x 20