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Which used Volvo XC60 should you buy?

Although the Volvo XC60 is designed to compete with cars such as the BMW X3, the popular Mercedes GLC and the Audi Q5, it does so in its own way, and there’s a wide choice available.

Engine options have included diesels, two plug-in hybrids (the T6 and T8) and turbocharged petrol units. Mild hybrid technology was introduced to some petrol and diesel models in 2019, boosting both their performance and fuel efficiency (look for models badged with a ‘B’). There’s also a performance-focused Polestar Engineered model.

An older version of the Volvo XC60 was sold up until 2017 and is still a popular choice among SUV buyers after safe and classy family transport.

Launched in 2017, the Volvo XC60 plug-in hybrid appears to offer the best of both worlds: the pace and acceleration to rival a high-performance SUV, yet with the CO2 emissions and fuel economy of a Toyota Prius.

Although it’s now sold under Volvo’s Recharge banner, the Volvo XC60 plug-in hybrid was originally known as the Twin Engine, in either T6 or T8 guise. It sits on the same platform as the one the larger Volvo XC90 is built around, so it’s not lacking in space or road presence.

In all cases, power is sourced from a combination of a 2.0-litre petrol engine and an electric motor. 

Read our full Volvo XC60 review


What used Volvo XC60 trim levels are available?

The names of the trim levels have changed since the Volvo XC60 went on sale in 2017. Back then, drivers could choose either R-Design and Inscription models, with Pro equipment packs also available on both.

Since then, the T6 has been offered in Core and Plus trims, with the T8 avaialable in two versions of the Ultimate trim (Dark Theme and Bright Theme).

Volvo XC60 Momentum

The Volvo XC60 Momentum is the most basic model available, but basic isn’t really an appropriate term here. It comes with stacks of equipment, as detailed below, and looks very classy.

  • LED lights
  • Front and rear park assist
  • Cruise control
  • Automatic lights and wipers
  • Keyless entry
  • Sat-nav
  • Nine-inch touchscreen media system
  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • 18-inch alloy wheels

 

Volvo XC60 R-Design

The Volvo XC60 R-Design takes the styling down a slightly sporty route, and tweaked suspension makes the car a bit more responsive on twisty roads. But you will find it less relaxing as a result, due to the firmer ride.

  • Redesigned bumpers and skirts
  • Rear roof spoiler
  • Tinted windows
  • Sports suspension

Volvo XC60 Inscription

Volvo XC60 Inscription models emphasise the luxurious nature of the car, rather than the more sporty angle of R-Design models. Among the highlights are:

  • 19-inch alloy wheels
  • Optional 22-inch alloys
  • Chrome detailing
  • Nappa leather
  • Electrically adjustable seats
  • Veneer inlays

Volvo XC60 Inscription Expression

The Volvo XC60 Inscription Expression trim is unique to the Volvo XC60 Recharge T6 plug-in hybrid. It’s essentially a more basic Momentum trim, with a selection of added extras.

  • High-gloss black front grille with chrome inserts
  • 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
  • Chrome window surrounds
  • Dual-integrated exhaust pipes

Volvo XC60 Pro

There are also ‘Pro’ versions of each Volvo XC60 trim level listed above, which add extra tech kit. Among the highlights are:

  • Active headlights
  • Keyless entry
  • Power-operated bootlid
  • Heated steering wheel

Volvo XC60 Polestar Engineered

When it was new, the Volvo XC60 Recharge T8 Polestar Engineered was the most expensive car in the range. The Polestar Engineered package includes a 322PS 2.0-litre petrol engine and an 88PS electric motor to give the Volvo XC60 serious performance credentials, with the 0-62mph sprint completed in 5.4 seconds.

Polestar Engineered front and rear brake calipers and floating front brake discs combine provide superior stopping power, with a Polestar Engineered chassis improving the handling. An upgraded gearbox, chrome exhaust pipes and gearshift paddles complete the comprehensive makeover.

  • Premium sound system by Harman Kardon
  • Metallic paint
  • Front aluminium tread plate
  • Polestar badges
  • Gold seatbelts
  • 21-inch polished/black alloy wheels

Volvo XC60 Core

The Volvo XC60 Recharge T6 Core became the entry-level model in the range, but still offered a healthy array of standard equipment.

  • 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
  • Keyless start
  • Cruise control
  • Dual-zone climate control
  • 12.3-inch driver display
  • Leather-faced upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • Driver-assistance tech

Volvo XC60 Plus

The Volvo XC60 Plus builds on the Core model by adding more equipment and improved safety features. Among the key features are:

  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Electric tailgate with handsfree function
  • 19-inch alloy wheels
  • Rear footwell and side step illumination
  • Ambient door lighting
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Electric driver’s seat with memory function
  • Front seat cushion extensions
  • Harman Kardon premium sound system
  • Puddle lights
  • Heated windscreen
  • Parking camera
  • Keyless entry and start
  • Heated seats

Volvo XC60 Ultimate

The range-topping Volvo XC60 Ultimate trim comes with a high level of standard kit, and in hybrid form, a choice of design themes. If it’s Dark, it will feature a high gloss black front grille, door mirrors, window surrounds, roof rails and front and rear bumper accents. If it’s Bright, these elements are finished in chrome.

  • Electronic air suspension
  • Active headlights
  • Headlight washers
  • 20-inch alloy wheels
  • Electric panoramic sunroof with curtain
  • Head-up display
  • Dark tinted windows
  • Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system
  • Soft leather upholstery
  • Ventilated seats with massage function
  • Electric folding rear headsets

Is a used Volvo XC60 a good buy?

Few SUVs offer as relaxed a driving environment as a Volvo XC60. Where many upmarket off-roaders are all about sporty styling add-ons and showy design features, it plots a more restrained course.

In a nod to the brand’s Swedish heritage, the Volvo XC60 majors on the relaxed, airy and understated elegance of Scandinavian design, offering simple lines inside and out, and a light, bright interior that features plenty of wood (depending on trim version) and leather.

It makes an excellent, and sophisticated, used purchase.