The Swedes are taking performance and sustainability to the next level.
The attributes appear to be in conflict, but Volvo’s 2023 S60 Recharge AWD Ultimate Black Edition plug-in hybrid mid-size sedan will knock your socks off.
Powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged, direct-inject hybrid engine with two electric motors and plug-in electric capability, the S60 is both fast and economical. With 455 combined horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, S60 delivers 31 miles per gallon fuel efficiency, along with 41 miles of emission-free, all-electric range.
With One Pedal Drive in the Recharge versions, the driver can use the accelerator both for accelerating and braking the car: simply press for acceleration and lift the pedal for smooth braking all the way to standstill.The S60 is also available with a range of 48-volt mild hybrid variants that provide smooth starts and up to 15 percent fuel savings and emission reductions in real-world driving.
The engine is paired with an eight-speed, Geartronic, automatic transmission and eAWD with adjustable drive mode settings: Hybrid, Pure, Power, and Constant AWD. The combination delivers a smooth, controlled drive along with high-end comfort. There is seating for five adults in luxury.
Luxury that purposefully eliminates leather seating in favor of planet-friendly tailored wool blend upholstery made from responsibly produced wool and 70 percent polyester with contrasting white piping, The clean, Scandinavian interior design is highlighted with a Swedish crystal handcrafted gear-shifter manufactured by Orrefors.
My tester’s Black Edition exterior features black metallic enamel, a blacked-out grille featuring the Volvo logo integrated into the front-looking radar, and sinister looking, diamond-cut, 19-inch black wheels. From the rear, attention-grabbing tail lights steal the show. Of course, the black theme is carried throughout to the interior.
Personal favorite creature comforts included a laminated, panoramic moonroof with power sunshade, Bowers and Wilkins premium sound system, 360-degree surround view camera, adaptive cruise control, and 12.3-inch infotainment screen which features built-in Google apps and services.
The S60 is equipped with Volvo Cars’ latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems sensor platform – a modern, scalable, active safety system that consists of an array of radars, cameras and ultrasonic sensors.This platform enables the deployment of active safety systems, such as the detection of other road users, automatic braking, and collision avoidance. Through the Pilot Assist function, it also allows for gentle driver support from standstill up to highway speeds.
Always known for its preponderance of safety equipment, Volvo’s S60 does not disappoint.
Highlights include low- and high-speed collision mitigation, vehicle/pedestrian/bike/large animal detection, lane departure warning, whiplash protection, rear park-assist camera, blind spot information and cross-traffic alert with auto brake, and LED headlamps with automatic high-beam deployment.
I’ve barely scratched the surface, but space dictates it will have to suffice. A test drive is in order to get the complete picture of what this vehicle has to offer. In my mind, it was a bargain – even at more than $60k.
Base Price: $59,975
Price As Driven: $63,690
The destination charge is included in the base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. The list price may vary at local dealerships.
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