The Volvo XC60 II (facelift 2021) Polestar Recharge 2.0 T8 is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) compact luxury SUV produced by the Swedish manufacturer Volvo Cars. Introduced in March 2021 and running through September 2021, this iteration represents a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation XC60, building upon the success of the original model launched in 2017. The “Polestar Engineered” designation signifies a performance-oriented trim level, developed in collaboration with Volvo’s performance arm, Polestar. This model is primarily marketed in Europe and other global markets, representing Volvo’s commitment to electrification and sustainable mobility. The XC60 competes with other premium compact SUVs such as the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC.
Volvo XC60 II Polestar Recharge: An Overview
The XC60 II facelift brought subtle styling updates, enhanced interior technology, and improvements to the powertrain. The Polestar Recharge 2.0 T8 variant specifically focuses on combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering both all-wheel drive capability and the benefits of electric-only driving for shorter commutes. This model is a key component of Volvo’s strategy to become a fully electric car company by 2030.
Engine & Performance
The Volvo XC60 II Polestar Recharge 2.0 T8 utilizes a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor. The combined output of this powertrain is 318 horsepower and 430 Nm (317.15 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine itself produces 318 Hp at 5800-6100 rpm and 430 Nm of torque at 4500 rpm. The electric motor, located on the rear axle, contributes an additional 87 horsepower and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque. This configuration allows for a 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately 5.1 seconds and a 0-100 km/h time of 5.4 seconds, with a maximum speed electronically limited to 180 km/h (111.85 mph). The powertrain is coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission (Geartronic) and an all-wheel-drive system, providing confident handling in various driving conditions. The vehicle’s drivetrain architecture allows it to operate in full electric mode, solely on the internal combustion engine, or in a combined mode, optimizing for efficiency or performance as needed.
Design & Features
The XC60 II maintains Volvo’s signature Scandinavian design language, characterized by clean lines, a minimalist interior, and a focus on safety and comfort. As a compact SUV/Crossover, it offers a practical blend of passenger space and cargo capacity. The facelifted model features updated front and rear styling, including revised LED headlights and taillights. The interior is dominated by a large, vertically oriented touchscreen infotainment system, controlling most vehicle functions. Standard features include leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. Safety is paramount, with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Polestar Engineered trim adds unique styling elements, including a distinctive grille, performance-tuned suspension, and upgraded brakes. Trunk space is 468 liters (16.53 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up and expands to 1395 liters (49.26 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down. The vehicle has a kerb weight of 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs) and a maximum weight of 2660 kg (5864.3 lbs).
Electric Vehicle Specifications
The XC60 II Polestar Recharge 2.0 T8 boasts a gross battery capacity of 11.6 kWh, utilizing lithium-ion battery technology housed in the central tunnel. This allows for an all-electric range of up to 45 km (27.96 mi) based on the WLTP cycle, and 44 km (27.34 mi) based on the NEDC cycle. The battery operates at 400V and can be charged via a standard charging port. Average energy consumption is rated at 17.2 kWh/100 km (27.68 kWh/100 mi) on the WLTP cycle, equating to 122 MPGe and 5.8 km/kWh (3.6 mi/kWh). The vehicle can reach a maximum speed of 125 km/h (77.67 mph) in electric-only mode.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | XC60 |
| Generation | XC60 II (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | Polestar Recharge 2.0 T8 (318 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid AWD Geartronic |
| Start of production | March, 2021 |
| End of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 73 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 2.3 l/100 km (102.3 US mpg, 122.8 UK mpg, 43.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 51 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 11.6 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | In the central tunnel |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 45 km (27.96 mi) |
| All-electric range (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 44 km (27.34 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 17.2 kWh/100 km (27.68 kWh/100 mi, 122 MPGe, 5.8 km/kWh, 3.6 mi/kWh) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 18.7 kWh/100 km (30.09 kWh/100 mi, 112 MPGe, 5.3 km/kWh, 3.3 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 125 km/h (77.67 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 87 Hp @ 7000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 0-3000 rpm) |
| Electric motor Torque | 240 Nm @ 0-3000 rpm |
| Electric motor location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Power | 318 Hp @ 5800-6100 rpm (161.5 Hp/l) |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 4500 rpm (317.15 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B4204T48 |
| Engine displacement | 1969 cm3 (120.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2660 kg (5864.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 468 l (16.53 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1395 l (49.26 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4688 mm (184.57 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2117 mm (83.35 in.) |
| Height | 1658 mm (65.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2865 mm (112.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1659 mm (65.31 in.) |
| Front overhang | 872 mm (34.33 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 951 mm (37.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 216 mm (8.5 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Geartronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/40 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 21 |
