The Good
Emotionally, its rapid acceleration and serene, elegantly designed cabin offer a premium, sophisticated driving experience. Practically, the S60 Recharge boasts impressive fuel efficiency, a substantial electric range for daily commutes, and Volvo's renowned safety features, providing peace of mind and lower running costs. It's a compelling blend of power, luxury, and environmental responsibility.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses include a slightly smaller trunk space due to battery placement, and the Google-based infotainment system can sometimes be less intuitive or responsive than competitors. The firm ride on larger wheels might not appeal to all, and the premium purchase price is higher than the standard S60. Availability of specific trims can also be limited.
2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2023 S60 Recharge features a single, highly advanced powertrain known as the T8 eAWD. This combines a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and an 18.8 kWh battery pack. It's an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system by default.
- Horsepower: The combined output of the T8 eAWD powertrain is a robust 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful options in its class.
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimated at 74 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) combined for hybrid operation. When running on gasoline only, it achieves approximately 30 MPG combined. It offers an impressive all-electric range of about 41 miles on a full charge, allowing many commutes to be emission-free.
- 0-60 Times: The powerful T8 powertrain propels the S60 Recharge from 0 to 60 mph in a quick 4.3 seconds, showcasing its performance capabilities.
- Towing Capacity: Volvo does not typically rate the S60 Recharge for towing in the U.S. market, as it's not designed for significant towing tasks.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Core: Serves as the entry point, offering a comprehensive suite of standard features including the Google-based infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital driver display, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, LED headlights, and a strong array of safety and driver-assist features like lane keeping aid and oncoming lane mitigation.
- Plus: Builds upon the Core with additions such as genuine leather upholstery, a 360-degree camera system, front and rear park assist, and adaptive cruise control with Pilot Assist (semi-autonomous driving).
- Ultimate: The top-tier trim elevates luxury with Nappa leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a graphical head-up display, a premium Harman Kardon sound system, and a power-operated trunk lid. It also includes four-zone climate control for enhanced passenger comfort. Optional upgrades often include a Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system and specific wheel designs.
2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2023 |
| Make | Volvo |
| Model | S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Sedan |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Minicompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4452 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | 188.10 inches |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | 113.10 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 8-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $53,995 |
| Invoice Price | $50,821 |
| Delivery Charges | $1,095 |
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid Have?
Software Glitches: Owners of Volvos utilizing the new Google Android Automotive OS (introduced in 2022 models) have occasionally reported minor software glitches, such as occasional infotainment system freezes, slow boot-up times, or temporary connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. These are often addressed with over-the-air (OTA) software updates.
12V Battery Drain: Some Volvo owners, especially with PHEV models, have reported instances of the conventional 12V battery draining prematurely, potentially due to parasitic draws from various electronic systems. This can lead to an inability to start the vehicle, even if the high-voltage hybrid battery is charged.
Charging System Issues: While less common, isolated reports of charging port malfunctions or issues with the onboard charger have occurred with PHEVs across various brands, including Volvo. Ensuring proper charging cable connection and using reliable charging stations is key.
Recalls: For the 2023 model year specifically, it's crucial to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any official recalls. As of current knowledge, widespread, critical recalls for the 2023 S60 Recharge have not been prominently reported. However, minor recalls related to software, minor component adjustments, or compliance issues can arise for any new vehicle. Always verify the VIN for open recalls.
Long-Term Reliability Concerns: The primary long-term concern for any PHEV revolves around the high-voltage battery pack and its associated components. While Volvo provides a substantial warranty on these (typically 8 years/100,000 miles in the US, sometimes 10 years/150,000 miles in certain states), replacement costs outside of warranty can be significant. The complexity of having both a sophisticated gasoline engine and an electric powertrain means more components that could potentially require service or repair compared to a conventional internal combustion engine vehicle. However, Volvo's overall reliability has been improving, generally placing it in the average category for luxury brands.
How long will the 2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: At its core is Volvo's Google Android Automotive OS, presented on a vertically oriented 9-inch touchscreen. This system integrates Google Assistant for voice commands, Google Maps for navigation, and access to a variety of apps via the Google Play Store. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto are standard for seamless smartphone integration. A 12.3-inch digital driver display provides customizable information. Standard audio is high-quality, but optional upgrades include a Harman Kardon premium sound system and a top-tier Bowers & Wilkins system, offering exceptional acoustic experiences. Over-the-air (OTA) updates keep the software current.
Driver-Assistance Features: Volvo is synonymous with safety, and the S60 Recharge is packed with advanced driver-assistance systems. Standard features include:
- Pilot Assist: Volvo's semi-autonomous driving system, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance for highway driving.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Steer Assist: Alerts drivers to vehicles in blind spots and can provide steering intervention.
- Cross Traffic Alert with Auto Brake: Warns of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking spot and can apply brakes.
- Lane Keeping Aid: Helps keep the vehicle within its lane.
- Oncoming Lane Mitigation: Helps steer the car back into its lane if it drifts into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
- Road Sign Information: Displays traffic sign information in the driver's display.
- Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking: Detects vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals, applying brakes if a collision is imminent.
- Front and Rear Park Assist: Aids in parking maneuvers.
- 360-degree Surround View Camera: An optional or higher-trim feature providing a bird's-eye view for easier parking.
Safety Features & Crash-Test Ratings: Beyond driver-assistance, the S60 Recharge includes a robust array of passive safety features, such as multiple airbags (front, side, knee, curtain), a strong safety cage built with high-strength boron steel, and whiplash protection system (WHIPS). The 2023 Volvo S60 (including the Recharge variant) has consistently earned top safety accolades. It received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), their highest designation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) typically awards the S60 a 5-star overall safety rating, reflecting its excellent performance in crash tests.
What Colors Options are Available?
2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid Prices and Market Value
Depreciation insights suggest Volvos generally hold their value reasonably well in the initial few years, especially given their luxury status and advanced features. However, they may depreciate somewhat faster than top-tier German rivals or extremely popular mass-market vehicles long-term. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, mileage, specific trim level, optional packages (like the premium sound system), and importantly, the health and warranty status of the high-voltage battery. Market demand for PHEVs, fluctuating fuel prices, and the availability of new federal/state incentives for new PHEVs also play a significant role in its long-term resale potential.
2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid Cost of Ownership
2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid Fuel Efficiency
2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid Warranty
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2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid Compare to Other Sedan?
Performance: The S60 Recharge, with its 455 horsepower, generally outperforms the BMW 330e (288 hp) and Mercedes-Benz C300e (often around 313 hp) in raw power and acceleration (0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds). Its electric-only range of 41 miles is also competitive, often surpassing the BMW's. While the Tesla Model 3 Performance offers blistering acceleration, the S60 Recharge balances power with a more traditional luxury sedan feel.
Features: Volvo excels in safety, with the S60 Recharge boasting comprehensive standard driver-assistance features and a Top Safety Pick+ rating. Its Google-based infotainment system is modern but can be polarizing. The Scandinavian interior design is distinctively minimalist and luxurious. Rivals offer their own strong tech suites; BMW's iDrive is highly refined, and Mercedes' MBUX is visually stunning. Tesla, however, leads in minimalist tech integration and over-the-air updates.
Reliability: Volvo's reliability has improved, typically ranking average among luxury brands, often on par with BMW and Mercedes. Tesla's reliability has been inconsistent, with some models experiencing more build quality and electronic issues. For a more conventional, proven reliability, the non-PHEV Lexus ES 300h (though not a direct performance rival) would be a strong contender.
Price: The S60 Recharge's pricing is competitive, often offering more power and standard safety features for its price point compared to similarly equipped German rivals.
Alternatives:
- BMW 330e: A sportier driving experience with sharper handling and a more engaging chassis. Slightly less powerful and electric range might be less, but an excellent choice for driving enthusiasts.
- Tesla Model 3: For those prioritizing pure electric driving, cutting-edge minimalist tech, and impressive acceleration in a smaller footprint, the Model 3 is a compelling, though different, alternative.
- Lexus ES 300h: If peak reliability, plush comfort, and fuel efficiency (without the plug-in aspect) are priorities over outright performance, the Lexus offers a serene and dependable ownership experience.
The S60 Recharge stands out for its unique blend of power, safety, and Scandinavian luxury, making it a strong choice for those who appreciate design and a robust PHEV system.
Final Verdict: Is the 2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid a Good Sedan?
It is absolutely worth buying for those who appreciate Scandinavian design, advanced safety features, and a potent 455-hp powertrain. Buying it new offers the full warranty and potential eligibility for federal tax credits, offsetting some of the premium price. For maximum value, the Plus trim strikes a great balance of features and cost. A used model a few years down the line could offer significant savings, but careful battery health checks and warranty status would be crucial.
However, it's less ideal for those who rarely charge, need maximal trunk space, or prioritize ultimate sportiness over comfort and advanced safety. For the right buyer with charging infrastructure, it's an excellent, sophisticated choice.