Review: 2024 Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge Ultimate Black Edition is an understated performance SUV

The Volvo XC60 stands apart in a crowded segment for its luxury, power and understated Scandinavian styling. It's the alternate, more deliberate and curated choice compared to the competition, and it's a good one. Overall, it’s a supremely well-executed luxury compact SUV with surprising power, but it’s not quite perfect.

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Photo courtesy of Volvo

The highs

There are six things we loved about the 2024 Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge Ultimate Black Edition (Volvo, you need to simplify your naming conventions). 

Power

The 2024 XC60 Recharge is powered by a 312 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder and a 143 horsepower electric motor. Combined, they produce 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque — a truly staggering number for an otherwise fairly subdued Swedish SUV. 

And boy, oh boy, it’s exciting. Stomp on it and this thing moves with a purpose. Passing, accelerating and everything in between is buttery smooth and sublimely satisfying. It's genuinely pleasing — and surprising — how much power the XC60 makes, and it's very confidence inspiring. Under load it sounds good, with a low and nice sounding growl. Otherwise, it's peaceful and serene. 

Photo courtesy of Volvo

Styling

There’s just something so elegant and handsome about the Volvo XC60 — and every other Volvo. Sure, the styling has slowly evolved over the years and is essentially the same as it was a few years ago, but it’s truly timeless. There’s nothing about it that says it's trying too hard or that it will shortly be out of style. This is the guy or gal with effortless style, confident in who they are and without the need to be the loud one in the room.

The Black Edition is especially well-executed but may be too black for some. We wish other paint options were available but as it is, the distinctive glossy black detailing on the grille, wheels and emblems give it a polished look.

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Comfort

The seats in any Volvo are exceptional, and the same goes for the XC60. They’re among some of the best in the industry. They’re heated, ventilated, perfectly bolstered and highly adjustable. They’re also relatively thin — an impressive feat considering how comfortable they are — which provides excellent legroom for rear seat occupants. 

All the materials, from the leather to the buttons and Orrefors crystal gear selector, are top-notch and lovely to touch. The XC60’s interior is a great place to spend time, even for prolonged drives. Unfortunately, it’s more of a four-seater as there’s a large hump bisecting the rear floorboard. Regardless, four adults will be very comfortable in this compact luxury SUV.

Photo courtesy of Volvo

Utility

The XC60’s compact shape doesn’t mean that it’s small in utility. In fact, with its raised ride height, all-wheel drive and large cargo area (especially with the rear seats folded down), this is a very practical and usable vehicle for commuting, errand running and winter ski runs. 

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Electric range

One of the best aspects of the Recharge model is the 35-mile electric range you get with a full charge. For my commute of 52 miles round trip, I could cover more than half of it just in electric mode. With the battery depleted, the XC60 gets about 28 mpg, meaning that if you charge your XC60 daily, you could make a tank of gas last a long, long time. 

Safety ratings and features

Volvo has been known for its safety ratings for years, and 2024 is no exception. Looking at the scores, the XC60 achieved five out of five on all but one of its 10 tests, and earned a five-star overall safety rating. The Volvo is a sure bet for those looking for a safe and secure compact crossover to get themselves and their family around safely.

Photo courtesy of Volvo

The lows

With all the good, there are five things that could be better on the XC60.

Infotainment/digital gauge cluster

This was not our first rodeo with a modern Volvo, and this test cemented it for us: The infotainment system could be better. We still don’t completely get it. Honestly, the screen just seems too small and clunky to be in a luxury car like this. The menus are not intuitive and in this $77,000 SUV, wireless Apple CarPlay is not an option. 

Technically, there are 360-degree cameras, but the screen always defaults to just the rearview backup camera when it is turned in reverse. It’s frustrating, and the camera quality is lacking. Additionally, the digital gauge cluster needs to provide more helpful information and be more interesting to look at. Some traditional looking gauges and easier to navigate menus would be appreciated. 

Buttons

Additionally, there are too many missing physical buttons that should be included. The ones that are left, primarily for music, aren’t what most drivers want or need. Also, the HVAC buttons on the screen are small and a little laggy to use. It’s all a little frustrating, and honestly feels behind the times for an otherwise excellent and modern SUV, especially for the price.

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Lack of storage

Almost universally, the Volvo lineup needs more storage compartments and cubbies. The door pockets are small, and the center console is almost non-existent. It’s big enough to hold a wallet, but that’s about it. 

Photo courtesy of Volvo

Harsher than expected ride

For 90% of the time, the XC60 rides very well. But for the other 10%, when driving over rougher surfaces, the Volvo lets you know it by slamming down on the pavement in unexpectedly harsh ways. The XC60 may be seriously fast, but it’s not a particularly serious performance vehicle. Some slightly softer dampers would probably be a better fit here.

Photo courtesy of Volvo

Gets expensive fast

Given the relatively simple interior, lack of storage and lagging infotainment, you might be surprised at the XC60's price. It starts at just under $60,000, but to get features like ventilated seats and a head-up display, you need to spend at least $69,000. 

The Black Edition, like our tester, starts at $70,245. Our tester, loaded with options such as air suspension, a fancy Bowers & Wilkins stereo and massaging seats, brought the price to $76,695. That’s a lot of dough for a compact SUV. Regardless, it’s an excellent driving car that’s beautiful inside and out.

Final thoughts

Like that successful and effortlessly cool friend, the Volvo XC60 Recharge T8 Ultimate Black Edition is irresistible in its charms. It offers hot rod power wrapped in a stylish yet understated body. It’s utterly comfortable and can carry three of your adult friends around in subdued style.

However, it’s not perfect, especially with some of its technology and somewhat bloated price tag. But, for the discerning luxury buyer who wants something different than the usual lineup, you won’t be disappointed with all the XC60 Recharge offers. 

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FAQs

Is it fun to drive? 

Yes. While not particularly sporty, the power is invigorating and smoothly delivered. 

Is it good for families?

Yes and no. If you have two or fewer kids you should be fine, but keep in mind that interior storage is lacking. 

*KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.