2021 Volvo S60 Recharge Review: All The Zap, None Of The Zing
The Volvo Hybrid has been rebranded for 2021 as the Volvo S60 Recharge, but it is essentially the same car it has always been in the USA. This means that it still places more emphasis on luxury and comfort, whereas competitors like the BMW 3 Series offer more in the way of fun and sportiness. It's no slouch, however, and is a potent alternative to the BMW 3 Series Hybrid, delivering 415 horsepower and 494 lb-ft of torque courtesy of its hybridized 4-cylinder gas engine and two electric motors. All-wheel drive is the standard setup. Add to this its extensive list of comfort and driver-assist features, and it's clear this is a vehicle for the sophisticated urbanite. However, is it good enough to compete with all the other great PHEV hybrids and EVs starting to flood the market?
S60 Recharge Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 187.4 in | 113.1 in | 56.3 in | 72.8 in | 63.0 in | 63.0 in | 4,447.0 lbs |
S60 Recharge Performance
Engine and Transmission
The S60 Recharge sedan can be had in two states of tune, although the same basic engine setup is used. The standard is the T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain, comprising a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 paired with two electric motors that increase its output to 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. This is a significant boost in power over the gas models and helps the midsize sedan feel extremely lively. Acceleration is excellent whether in town or on the highway, and it shows composure through corners, despite the added weight of the hybrid components. The Polestar Engineered trim naturally has to turn the notch up to eleven. There isn't a whole more power on tap here, though, with outputs increased to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft from the same power plant, but the 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in 4.1 seconds. All-wheel drive is standard across the board, and an 8-speed automatic transmission does the job of rowing the gears. The 2021 Volvo S60 Recharge has good fuel economy figures, but they aren't outstanding against other PHEVs, and its 22-mile all-electric range is not all that impressive.
S60 Recharge Interior
S60 Recharge Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Hybrid/Electric Components | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 12 Years / Unlimited Miles | 8 Years / 100,000 Miles | 4 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
Verdict: Is the 2021 Volvo S60 Recharge A Good car?
A bad Volvo is not a term you are likely to encounter, and even though the luxury midsize sedan segment is extremely competitive, the S60 Recharge has firmly established itself. It's more than just a refined, luxury cruiser, and it comes highly recommended by the relevant safety authorities. The NHTSA and IIHS's review of the 2021 Volvo S60 Recharge showed that it is a very safe vehicle, which is not a factor that should ever be underestimated. This is largely due to the fact that it comes equipped with loads of advanced features as standard that many rivals expect you to pay more for. The comforts and conveniences the Swedish automaker add to the car are also generous.
The S60 Recharge sedan also has oodles of power on tap, and it handles pleasantly without causing you to doubt its ability through the bends. That said, it's no sports car, even with the extra surge in power on the Polestar Engineered version. Additionally, the electric powertrain is not overly efficient. This is evidenced by its limited all-electric range. Moving to more practical considerations, it doesn't boast a particularly spacious trunk, reducing its appeal as a daily driver. This is a relatively common problem in luxury cars, though. Overall, the Volvo Recharge is still a great car with a lot going for it - a high-quality interior with an air of class that's packed with luxuries. Overall, the S60 Recharge is a great value proposition as a 4-door luxury cruiser.
What Volvo S60 Recharge Model Should I Buy?
With its reasonable starting price, the 2021 Volvo S60 Recharge sedan is particularly appealing for buyers who want to get into the luxury segment. Since it isn't really designed to capitalize on speed and handling, we wouldn't suggest going for the Polestar Engineered; your money could be better spent adding some options to the R-Design Expression. You already get a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats, but the Advanced Package can add some nice-to-have tech over the standard driver-assistance suite. These include lane-keep assist, a surround-view camera, and a head-up display.