2022 Volvo XC60 vs 2023 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 featured subtle styling updates that enhanced its sporty appearance. The new front fascia included "air blades" on either side of the grille, while a redesigned rear bumper concealed the tailpipes. New wheel designs were introduced across all models, and the front grille was reworked to house sensors for driver-assist systems behind a heated Volvo logo, ensuring functionality in cold weather. The XC60 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with other Volvo models like the XC90 and S90. Inside, the interior remained largely unchanged, maintaining a clean design with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, though the overall interior felt subdued compared to other Volvo models.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC60 offered a more refined and luxurious experience. The exterior design continued to age gracefully, with the Recharge model featuring a Dark exterior theme and 20-inch wheels. The interior embraced classic Scandinavian minimalism, with high-quality materials and a standard panoramic sunroof. The Ultimate package added opulence with features like a crystal gear selector knob and ambient lighting. The cabin's black leather was complemented by wood trim and metal accents, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. Despite the initial learning curve, the controls became intuitive with extended driving time, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. Both powertrains combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, providing an additional 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 powertrain also featured an electric supercharger. The B5 delivered 258 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, while the B6 offered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Both used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the B5 available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and the B6 exclusively in AWD. The XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid boasted a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter engine, an integrated starter generator, and a rear electric motor, producing 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. The Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 horsepower and 494 pound-feet, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 455 horsepower and 423 pound-feet of torque. The PHEV powertrain provided an estimated 35 miles of electric driving range. The XC60 Recharge offered multiple driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, Pure, Off-road, and Constant AWD, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's behavior. In Pure mode, the XC60 achieved impressive electric-only driving, while Power mode enhanced performance and handling. The XC60 Recharge excelled in both performance and efficiency, with an average of 54.6 mpg over a 65-mile evaluation route. The one-pedal driving system and regenerative brakes further optimized energy usage, making it a versatile choice for various driving scenarios.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom, tying with the Audi Q5 for the worst in its class. Legroom was average for the segment. The mild-hybrid models offered 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 49.8 cubic feet with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly reduced cargo capacity, at 21.1 cubic feet with the seats up and 49.3 cubic feet with them down. Despite the limited cargo space, the XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, a compact crossover SUV, was best suited for four passengers, though it could accommodate five if needed. The front seats offered exceptional comfort, with Nappa leather upholstery, heating, ventilation, and power cushion extensions. The rear seats were also comfortable, though legroom was limited. The large panoramic sunroof added a sense of spaciousness. Storage options included practical spots in the center console and door panel bins. The XC60 Recharge offered 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 63.3 cubic feet with them folded. The power liftgate and air suspension made loading easier, while a ski pass-through panel added versatility.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen running the Android Automotive operating system. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a built-in WiFi hotspot were standard. The system integrated Android-specific features, including Google Assistant for voice control and Google Maps for navigation. The Google Play Store provided access to third-party apps like Spotify. The system supported iPhone compatibility, though without Google profile syncing. The digital instrument cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel, operated via steering wheel controls. The 9-inch Google Built-in infotainment system offered four years of complimentary access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play. It supported both Android and Apple CarPlay, with additional features like SiriusXM satellite radio and Wi-Fi access. The voice-recognition system impressed with its accuracy, and the optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivered exceptional audio quality. The system allowed voice control of climate functions, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2021 model received top safety ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and more. New features for 2022 included Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist driver-assistance system was available, combining adaptive cruise control and automated lane centering.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 continued Volvo's legacy of safety innovation. The Ultimate trim included all available safety features, including Pilot Assist, which excelled on highways. Oncoming Lane Mitigation helped avoid collisions with oncoming vehicles. The XC60 B5 and B6 mild-hybrids received top safety ratings from the IIHS, with the XC60 Recharge expected to perform similarly.