Refreshed Volvo XC60 is perfect for Metro Manila traffic

2021 XC60 Recharge can do up to 41.7 km/L

This is the newly refreshed Volvo XC60. Yes, it might look the same as before, but we promise the crossover you see here is the updated model.

Can't see the changes? Compare this with the pre-facelift model, and you'll spot the new bumper with larger fog lamps that extend more toward the center. Further down, the skid plate has been ditched for full-width chrome trim. The rear bumper has been given a similar treatment with the skid plate and exhaust finishers removed. Meanwhile, the sportier R-Design variant gets a more aggressive front facia and larger wheels.

Rather than wildly changing up the crossover's exterior design, the Swedish automaker decided to keep things simple by updating the XC60's powertrain lineup. Remember, Volvo plans to only sell fully electric vehicles starting in 2030. But before that, they aim to have half of all vehicle sales comprised of EVs and the other half with hybrids by 2025.

For 2021, the XC60 continues to be available with a wide choice of hybrid powertrains. However, the highlight would be the three newest plug-in hybrid variants as part of the Recharge range. All three will feature a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a rear-mounted electric motor for all-wheel drive. Depending on the trim level, the engine produces different power levels.

The base option is the Recharge T6 AWD, wherein the combustion engine produces 253 PS and 350 Nm torque while the e-motor provides an additional 87 PS and 240 Nm torque. Total system output is rated at 340 PS and 590 Nm torque. The Recharge T8 AWD uses the same e-motor unit with the same power output. However, the engine produces 303 PS and 400 Nm torque, giving a combined output of 390 PS and 640 Nm. At the top of the range is the Recharge T8 AWD Polestar Engineering with a total output of 405 PS and 670 Nm torque.

Depending on the powertrain, customers will get up to 45 to 53 km of electric driving range. Meanwhile, fuel consumption ranges from 41.7 km/L (mixed) for the T6 and T8, and 30 km/L (mixed) for the more powerful T8 AWD Polestar Engineering. 

Other changes to the 2021 Volvo XC60 include a new infotainment system that runs an Android Automotive operating system. The center console has also been revised together with updated new instrument cluster graphics and a wireless phone charger.

With Volvo Philippines offering plug-in hybrid models locally, the question now is whether we'll get the XC60 Recharge models as well. A crossover that can do up to 41.7 km/l with an electric driving range seems perfect for Metro Manila streets.