2024 Volvo V60: A Stylish Wagon Balancing Performance and Practicality

The 2024 Volvo V60 stands out in a world increasingly dominated by SUVs. This sleek and sophisticated wagon offers a compelling alternative, blending practicality with luxury and a dose of performance in its optional Polestar Engineered guise. Whether you prioritize comfort, cargo space, or a touch of thrill, the V60 has something to consider.

Two Flavors: Recharge or Cross Country

Volvo doesn't offer multiple trims for the V60 in 2024. Instead, you can choose between two distinct personalities:

• V60 Recharge: This is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with a focus on efficiency and electric driving. The T8 Polestar Engineered powertrain packs a punch with 455 horsepower and a combined electric and gas driving range of over 530 miles. It boasts a respectable 41 miles of electric-only range, allowing you to tackle daily commutes without a drop of gas.

• V60 Cross Country: This version takes the V60 and injects it with some off-road capability. With increased ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, and a slightly more rugged exterior design, it caters to those who crave a bit of adventure alongside their everyday driving.

Both options come generously equipped, with features like a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies standard.

Sophisticated Style Inside and Out

The V60's exterior is undeniably Volvo. The signature Thor's Hammer headlights and clean lines create a timeless and elegant look. The Recharge features standard 19-inch wheels for a touch of sportiness, while the Cross Country benefits from a more rugged stance with its increased ride height and available contrast-color cladding.

Inside, the cabin is a haven of Scandinavian design. High-quality materials like soft-touch plastics and genuine leather exude a premium feel. The driver-centric layout ensures everything is within easy reach, and the vertical touchscreen infotainment system offers a modern touch. While the infotainment system can be quirky at times, its integration with Google services like Maps and Assistant is a plus.

Passenger space is good for a wagon, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The cargo area offers 60.5 cubic feet of space with the seats folded, making it a practical choice for families or those with active lifestyles. The Recharge sacrifices a slight amount of cargo space due to the battery pack placement, but it's still a very usable area.

Performance with a Focus on Efficiency or Power

The choice between the Recharge and Cross Country is most evident in how they drive.

• The Recharge: With its electric motor providing instant torque, the Volvo V60 Recharge offers a thrilling driving experience. Acceleration is brisk, and the ability to glide silently on electric power adds another layer of enjoyment. When the gas engine kicks in, it's refined and unobtrusive.

• The Cross Country: This version prioritizes comfort and capability over outright speed. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers adequate power, but it won't win any drag races. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides confidence in all weather conditions, and the slightly higher ground clearance allows you to venture off the beaten path.

Both versions handle well, with responsive steering and a comfortable ride. The Recharge's lower center of gravity due to the battery placement translates to sharper handling, while the Cross Country prioritizes a smooth ride over twisty roads.

Safety First

Volvo is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the V60 is no exception. It comes packed with a suite of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. These features work seamlessly together to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.

Fuel Efficiency and Value

The 2024 Volvo V60 shines in terms of fuel efficiency, especially the Recharge. With its 41-mile electric range, you can potentially complete most daily commutes without using any gasoline. Even when the gas engine kicks in, the combined MPGe rating of 74 makes the Recharge a fuel-sipping champion.

The Cross Country, while not as efficient as the Recharge, still delivers respectable fuel economy with a combined MPG rating of 27. However, the starting price of $51,495 for the Cross Country is significantly lower than the Recharge's $71,250 MSRP.