Volvo XC60 II Polestar 2.0 T8 TwEn (318 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid AWD Geartronic

The Volvo XC60 II Polestar 2.0 T8 TwEn (318 Hp) is a plug-in hybrid compact luxury SUV produced by the Swedish manufacturer Volvo between December 2018 and March 2021. Representing the second generation of the XC60, this variant was positioned as a high-performance, environmentally conscious offering within the Volvo lineup. The “Polestar Engineered” designation signifies enhancements developed by Volvo’s performance division, Polestar, focusing on powertrain optimization and chassis tuning. This model was primarily sold in European and North American markets, appealing to consumers seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and reduced emissions.

Volvo XC60 II Polestar 2.0 T8 TwEn: Overview

The XC60 II, launched in 2017, marked a significant step forward for Volvo, embodying the company’s new design language and commitment to electrification. The Polestar 2.0 T8 TwEn variant builds upon this foundation with a more powerful and refined powertrain. The “TwEn” designation refers to the twin-engine configuration, highlighting the combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. This vehicle competes with other premium compact SUVs such as the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Mercedes-Benz GLC, offering a distinctive Scandinavian aesthetic and a focus on safety and sustainability.

Engine & Performance

The Volvo XC60 II Polestar 2.0 T8 TwEn utilizes a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor. The combined output of this powertrain is 318 horsepower and 430 Nm (317.15 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine itself produces 318 Hp at 5800-6100 rpm and 430 Nm of torque at 4500 rpm. The electric motor contributes an additional 87 horsepower and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque. Power is delivered to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission (Geartronic) and an all-wheel-drive system. This configuration allows for a 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately 5.1 seconds and a 0-100 km/h time of 5.4 seconds, with a maximum speed electronically limited to 180 km/h (111.85 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 6.8 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5 kg/Nm.

A key feature of this model is its plug-in hybrid capability. The 11.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located in the central tunnel, provides an all-electric range of up to 36 km (22.37 miles) based on the WLTP cycle, and 44 km (27.34 miles) based on the NEDC cycle. Average energy consumption is rated at 17.6 kWh/100 km (119 MPGe) under WLTP testing and 18.1 kWh/100 km (116 MPGe) under NEDC testing. The vehicle can be charged via a standard charging port, offering a convenient way to reduce reliance on the gasoline engine for shorter trips.

Design & Features

The Volvo XC60 II is a five-door, five-seat SUV characterized by its sleek and modern Scandinavian design. The exterior features clean lines, a prominent grille with the Volvo iron mark, and distinctive “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights. The Polestar Engineered variant often includes subtle styling enhancements, such as unique wheels, aerodynamic body kit elements, and Polestar badging. The interior is renowned for its minimalist aesthetic, high-quality materials, and comfortable seating.

Safety is a paramount concern for Volvo, and the XC60 II is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These include ABS, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The vehicle also boasts a spacious interior with a trunk capacity ranging from 468 liters (16.53 cu. ft.) to 1395 liters (49.26 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Other notable features include a large touchscreen infotainment system, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The vehicle’s curb weight is 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs) with a maximum permissible weight of 2660 kg (5864.3 lbs).

Technical Specifications