Volvo adds a PHEV option for its S60 sedan range

Volvo has extended its S60 range – the third generation of the firm’s premium mid-size saloon – to incorporate further powertrain choices and equipment grades, including an all­-wheel­-drive petrol­-electric hybrid and a trim level that focuses on luxury and craftsmanship.

The existing T5 turbocharged 250hp petrol unit has been joined by an all-wheel-drive T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining a 303hp petrol engine with an 87hp electric motor for a total output of 390hp. Performance is suitably electrifying, with 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds. The T8 Twin Engine's 11.8kWh battery provides an electric-only range of up to 36 miles, with CO2 emissions from just 39g/km. Like the T5, the T8 Twin Engine uses a Volvo Drive-E petrol engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The R-Design Edition launch trim has been replaced by R-Design Plus and is joined by the new Inscription Plus variant. R-Design Plus is designed to provide a more focused driving experience, thanks to (on T5 versions) stiffer springs, faster-responding monotube dampers, thicker anti-roll bars and a 12mm lower ride height (petrol-electric hybrid R-Design Plus variants come with the standard suspension settings). Other R-Design Plus highlights include a head-up display, gearshift paddles, high­gloss black exterior trim elements, a choice of 18­, 19­ or 20-inch alloy wheels, Metal Mesh aluminium interior inlays and part-leather sports seats.

Inscription Plus trim is for those who appreciate their high-end luxuries. The exterior features chrome trim along with a different design of alloy wheels, projecting exclusivity and refined Scandinavian style. Inside, fine Nappa full-leather upholstery and beautifully crafted details such as the Driftwood décor inlays reward the senses. Inscription Plus versions also benefit from cooled seats, on top of the heated seats of other S60s.

The S60 brings all the dynamic ability, ground-breaking technology and striking Scandinavian design from the company's latest models to the premium mid-size saloon segment. It is built at Volvo's new Charleston plant in South Carolina, USA, on Volvo's SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) platform, which also underpins the award-winning S90, V60, V90, XC60 and XC90. It is the first modern Volvo to be sold without a diesel engine, signalling the company's industry-leading commitment to electrification and a long-term future beyond the traditional combustion engine. It also offers cutting-edge collision-avoidance and occupant-protection technology.

Commenting on the S60 range expansion, Matt Galvin, Sales Director of Volvo Car UK, said: “The S60's spring launch couldn't have gone better. The high-specification R-Design Edition variants were extremely well received by both customers and retailers. Now, with R-Design Plus and Inscription Plus, we can offer the choice of a more focused driving experience or something more luxurious - qualities that resonate strongly with private owners and business users in the premium mid-size saloon market. Add the petrol-electric plug-in hybrid T8 Twin Engine to the mix and we're sure the extended S60 range will make a significant contribution to Volvo Car UK's continued sales success.”

The T8 Twin Engine R-Design Plus is £49,805 ($60,264) on the road, while its tax-efficient petrol-electric drivetrain means a 40% taxpayer would pay just £265 ($320.65) in company car tax a month. The S60 range will soon be joined by a 405hp T8 Polestar Engineered version, details of which will be announced shortly.