2022 Volvo XC60

Overview
Volvo's unique Swedish perspective is evident in every one of the brand's products, including its top-seller, the stylish and thoughtfully-designed 2022 XC60 SUV. Clean lines and tasteful embellishments help the XC60 strike a stylish pose in traffic while the cabin serves as an upscale oasis from perils of the modern commute. Three different powertrains are offered here, including a plug-in-hybrid variant with strong performance. Cargo space isn't as generous as in rivals such as the Audi Q5, the BMW X3, or Mercedes-Benz GLC-class, but we think most buyers will find it practical enough. Technology is integrated throughout, including a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, and a host of driver-assistance features to help keep the XC60's shiny side up.

What's New for 2022?
The XC60's T5 and T6 powertrains have been dropped from the lineup this year and replaced with similar setups called B5 and B6, both of which utilize a 48-volt hybrid system; the plug-in hybrid T8 powertrain continues to serve as the SUV's top powertrain. Volvo is also replacing the XC60's Sensus infotainment system with a more modern Google Android-based interface that's borrowed from the electric XC40 Recharge. The screen is the same 9.0-inch vertically-oriented shape, but new software offers more personalization options, a voice-assistant feature, and navigation via Google Maps. Several subtle styling changes help mark the 2022 model year as well, including a tweaked grille, a re-worked front bumper, updated wheel designs, and the introduction of Volvo's City Weave cloth upholstery as an option for the first time on the XC60. In addition to the styling refresh and the new infotainment, Volvo also says there have been upgrades to the XC60's various radar, camera, and ultrasonic sensors that provide data for the SUV's driver-assistance systems.

Pricing and Which One to Buy
Momentum $43,745
R-Design $49,895
Inscription $51,245
Recharge $55,345
Recharge R-Design $61,495
Recharge Inscription $62,845
Recharge Polestar Engineered $70,595
We're suckers for the R-Design's racy appearance, and we've enjoyed the T6 powertrain's peppy performance in our long-term XC60 test vehicle, so the R-Design B6 is our recommendation. The extra cost versus the base Momentum trim is worth it here, with all sorts of features becoming standard. The R-Design comes with a Harman/Kardon audio system, prettier wheels, a power-operated rear liftgate, and four-zone automatic climate control.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Volvo offers three different powertrains—B5, B6, and T8—in the XC60, all mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Under the hood of base B5-badged XC60s is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a 48-volt hybrid system making 247 horsepower. The B6 is powered by the same turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder as the B5, but a supercharger is added for more oomph. With 295 ponies in its stable, it feels a bit peppier than models with the base B5. The plug-in hybrid T8 powertrain borrows the B6's engine and pairs it with a set of electric motors for a total of 400 horsepower in the Recharge model or 415 in the Polestar Engineered model. The XC60 takes corners well, feels tied to the road while cruising, and changes directions with confidence, but doesn't inspire hooliganism like the Porsche Macan. The ride can feel a touch harsh when driving over rougher stretches of road, but on smooth sections it's agreeable and calm.