The 2022 Volvo XC60 Review, New Version of the Luxury SUV

When you take a look at the 2022 Volvo XC60, it is easy to see why the Swedish carmaker hasn't modified the design in over a decade. This premium compact SUV will look just as fantastic in ten years as it does today, which is something that cannot be said about all of its competitors. Here is all you need to know about the Volvo XC60 in 2022.

Volvo XC60

1. Updated Features

If you compare the 2022 Volvo XC60 to the pre-refresh model, you'll see that the front fascia designs have changed. The R-Design has one new appearance, while the Momentum and Inscription variants have separate changes. If you stare at the two XC60s long enough, you will notice subtle differences in the grille.

Of course, the XC60's modifications are not just superficial. Every XC60 powertrain was changed, increasing the range of the Recharge plug-in hybrid variant. The T5 and T6 engines have been replaced with B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains. A new digital instrument cluster with a sleek new look meets a Google-based infotainment system on the vertically oriented 9.0-inch central touchscreen inside the Volvo XC60.

2. Solid and Smooth, But a Bit of a Surge

The less you pay attention to the figures, the better. That's because the Volvo XC60 B6 in 2022 will not be able to compete on the track with the segment's finest. It hit 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, which is perfectly respectable but falls short of the competition. That statistic matches a 2019 XC60 T5 tested, and it is 0.4 second slower than the fastest XC60 T6 we've tested.

Despite the large and attractive 21-inch wheels, the XC60 B6 test vehicle was equipped with Volvo's air suspension, which helped to smooth out the ride remarkably. The XC60 doesn't feel like you are riding on a cloud, but it also doesn't feel harsh. That's an unexpected plus for people who want to make a big statement with a big set of wheels.

3. Efficiency and Transmission

In the initial drive of the Volvo XC60, there was a sluggish gear changes; the new mild hybrid's biggest feature is how it makes average gear changes less obvious, not responsiveness. That, and the operation of the stop/start mechanism, which is only barely discernible in typical driving. What would be great to see more of from this mild-hybrid portfolio of powertrains is economy, rather than power.

In reality, the small luxury SUV sector as a whole could use a few efficiency boosts. In the case of Volvo, the B5 AWD variant gets 22/28 mpg city/highway, which is not terrible but not spectacular in this market. The XC60 B5 and B6 AWD variants have a combined city/highway range of 451 miles, which is good for this class.

4. Interior Issue

So far, so good, but the inside has to be updated. Volvo XC60’s 9.0-inch touchscreen has split the crew over the years, but it's beginning to seem old, even before considering the new Google-based architecture set to debut in 2022. Because of the screen's narrowness and vertical orientation, certain material on the dashboard is pushed too low, which isn't ideal for quick-glance visibility.

The back camera appears on the bottom half of the screen. This makes the SUV from 2022 feel older; a bigger, horizontally oriented screen at the top of the dash would be preferable. Even the engine-start operation may be improved for the most detail-oriented drivers. Volvo has a tactile switch on the center console that you twist, but it's a little too far back to be comfortable.

The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is a nice addition, with a nice design that puts the map front and center. There is also a Calm mode for individuals who get screen and information fatigue from time to time. The more we drove the Volvo XC60 SUV, the more pleased we were about the technology, but there is still a lot of room for improvement.

Is the XC60 a Good Car?

Even beyond its look, the Volvo XC60 2022 is a capable vehicle. When you consider the sorts of everyday difficulties you might not notice until after a test drive, the Volvo is a little less tempting in a category full of alternatives. The 2022 XC60 is still recommended because of its design, space, and surprisingly nice ride with 21-inch wheels, but the B6 is held back by just sufficient track acceleration and some interior concerns.