The Volvo XC60 was first revealed back in 2008 and is now in its 2nd generation. For the 2023 model year, Volvo is introducing a few new changes in order to make the 2023 model more efficient and more competitive in the compact luxury SUV segment which is filled with amazing options throughout. So, if you want to know all about 2023 Volvo XC60, be sure to stick around!
The changes for the 2023 model year are a few but are notable. For starters, the XC60 gets new trim level nomenclature which means that you can now buy an XC60 Core, XC60 Pro, or the top-spec XC60 Ultimate. Other changes include mild-hybrid technology for all engines, a new infotainment system, and a new vegan-friendly premium interior upholstery.
The engines are predominantly the same, but mild hybrid technology is there to make all XC60 models slightly more responsive and more CO2 efficient. The design and driving experience remain unchanged which is not a bad thing because the XC60 drives really well. Reliability is average and the 2023 model is likely to suffer from similar issues as the 2022 model.
Value-wise, the 2023 XC60 does come with a slight price bump, but that is to be expected. Practicality is really good with enough seats for up to five moderately sized adults or four tall adults. The cargo space is really good and overall visibility is excellent.
2023 Volvo XC60 – The Powertrain
The entry-level B5 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology offers 247hp, the B6 2.0L 4-cylinder offers 295hp while the top-spec T8 model offers 455hp from its electric motor and the aforementioned 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. The entry-level B5 comes with a FWD setup, but you can pay extra for AWD which comes as standard on all other models.
All engines are mated to the familiar 8-speed automatic gearbox which suits the XC60 really well as it shifts gears smoothly and seamlessly. You can expect to get around 22/28MPG with the B5 engine, 21/27 with the more powerful B6, and 63MPGe combined for the T8 model.
Overall, the engines on the XC60 are all powerful enough and should be more than adequate for the size and weight of the car. Some would prefer seeing a 6-cylinder performance-oriented Volvo in there, but that is long gone as Volvo is now only using 4-cylinder engines.
2023 Volvo XC60 – Design and Driving
As far as the exterior design is concerned, the 2023 XC60 remains unchanged which means that it looks nice from all angles. It offers a minimalist approach and it slots perfectly between the larger XC90 and the smaller XC40 SUV. The interior features a new Google-backed infotainment system and new premium vegan-friendly upholstery.
The 2023 XC60 offers no changes in the driving department. Therefore, you can expect the XC60 to be docile, easy to drive, comfortable, and relaxing. It is not an SUV that tries to be dynamic or off-road and is primarily designed for cruising up and down the motorway.
2023 Volvo XC60 – Reliability and Common Issues
The 2023 XC60 is still way too fresh for us to say how it copes as far as reliability is concerned. We can say that it is likely going to remain the same as the 2022 model which means that it is good, but it does suffer from certain issues worth talking about.
People are reporting issues with water getting into the car around the windshield, issues with the brakes, high levels of oil consumption, issues with the TPMS system, and strange vibrations while traveling at highway speeds.
2023 Volvo XC60 – Value and Practicality
The 2023 XC60 starts at $44,545 for the entry-level B5 Core model, $48,795 for the Plus model, and $54,595 for the Ultimate model. The hybrid model starts at $58,295 while top-spec XC60 hybrid models go for up to $68,000. The B5 engine adds a few thousand dollars on top of the regular B5 price, but that includes AWD and a few other features as well.
Practicality remains the same as the 2022 model which means that the XC60 is a really practical car overall. With enough seating space for 4-5 passengers, the XC60 is a really spacious car. Trunk space is more than adequate while getting in and out of the XC60 is as easy as it gets.
FAQ Section
Should I buy the 2023 Volvo XC60?
If you are in the market for a compact luxury SUV, the 2023 Volvo XC60 should definitely be on your radar. It is a minimalist yet quality-made luxury SUV that goes about its way in the most unfathomable manner possible. It does not try to be flashy and attention-seeking, but it manages to offer everything you’d want from a luxury SUV.
With that said, if you want something a bit more exciting and out there, you are likely going to prefer some of the XC60s German rivals as they tend to make SUVs a lot more attention-seeking and arguably more interesting.
Which cars rival the 2023 Volvo XC60?
The compact luxury SUV segment is brimming with amazing options starting with the new Mercedes GLC which is likely the most advanced and luxurious SUV in its class. The Audi Q5 is getting on a bit now but is still a great SUV. The BMW X3 is the more dynamic car out of them all, but not as dynamic as the Porsche Macan or the Alfa Romeo Stelvio.
Without boring you with more options in this segment, we can say that these are the ones most people are interested in buying. It would be a good idea to test all of these out if you are interested in buying a compact luxury SUV as all have something special about them.
Is the 2023 Volvo XC60 safe?
Volvo is aware that most people in this segment are buying these SUVs as family transportation devices and that safety is the top priority for most people. Volvo, a brand that literally invented seat belts has made sure that their XC60 is one of, if not the safest cars in this segment.
It gets the IIHS “Top Safety Pick+” rating which is the highest rating any car can get from IIHS.
