For 2022, Volvo updated its plug-in hybrids with new battery technology and better range while driving only on electricity. We had a chance to sample the powertrain early on in Belgium last year, but now we are driving a U.S.-spec on our home turf.
The advantage of a plug-in hybrid, or PHEV, is that for around town driving, you can operate entirely on electricity. For the commute to work, you can plug in at home and never burn an ounce of fuel. But when you need to drive across the country for whatever reason, the car operates like a traditional gasoline-powered hybrid that can be refueled quickly.
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The EPA rates the new 2022 Volvo XC60 Recharge at 35 miles of all electric range. So we charged one up to full and set off for a trip around our small town. Well, many trips around our small town.
We emulated city driving for the duration of the test, with speeds reaching up to 45 mph but only briefly exceeding that. PHEVs are around town performance machines, and longer highway drives aren’t where most people will be using the electricity.
After just over 2 hours of driving, the XC60 finally kicked on its gasoline motor. Remember, the rated range is 35 miles. We were able to drive the 2022 XC60 T8 Recharge 52.9 miles. That’s significantly better than the stated range.
Of course, your miles will vary. If you drive favors higher speed boulevards with not much stop and go, the range will be reduced. But with cities getting more and more congested, our average speed of 26 mph doesn’t feel that far off.
The newest PHEV Recharge models have a new Pure driving mode which won’t engage the gasoline motor at all. With the increased battery size and larger motor, the XC60 has plenty of electric-only performance.
In a lot of ways, this Volvo is the perfect compromise for someone who wants an SUV that’s electric, but is concerned about overall electric range. It’s quick and it’s comfortable, and it’ll also go a long way before burning a single hydrocarbon.
