Volvo XC60
Drive-E combustion engine in the T8 plug-in hybrid configuration with twin-charging and rear axle electric motor. Combustion engine alone produces 235 kW; system output is 298–340 kW depending on model year. Eight-speed Geartronic automatic at the front, electric motor at the rear axle for all-wheel drive.
Sport SUV with a green conscience
T8 XC60 II: 455 hp system output, 5.7 seconds. Hard to believe this is an SUV.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The early ERAD rear axle electric motor (2016–2017, Siemens design) suffered clutch pack failure. Metal particles contaminated the differential oil, causing progressive bearing wear. Dealer repair costs exceeded 8,000 €.
Symptoms: Grinding or clicking from the rear axle, judder under acceleration, loss of electric rear-wheel drive
Volvo recalled approximately 73,000 PHEV vehicles (S60, V60, S90, V90, XC60, XC90) in 2021–2022 due to fire risk from defective LG battery cells. Affected owners were advised not to charge until inspection.
Some T8 PHEV owners report range losses of 20% or more in the first year. According to forum reports, Volvo accepted 25% range loss in the first year as 'within specification'. Improvements from 2022 models onward.
Symptoms: Noticeably reduced electric range after 1–2 years, combustion engine cutting in more frequently
The T8 shares its combustion engine with the T6, including the supercharger. At high total mileage (combined ICE and electric use), the same supercharger wear patterns apply as on the T6 Drive-E.
Symptoms: Power loss in combustion mode, check engine light, lean running condition (P0171)
Vehicle Weaknesses 11
A faulty weld between the rotor shaft and the hydraulic brake assembly was found on the V90 II and S90 II. If it fails, ABS, ESC and brake assist are disabled. Volvo issued a recall in 2021.
On XC60 II vehicles built between September 2018 and April 2019, nuts and bolts at the rear axle may be too loose. Handling can change abruptly; check recall status.
Mass recall in 2020 for around 750,000 vehicles worldwide due to faulty automatic emergency braking (AEB). Check recall status at the Volvo dealer and have the software update applied.
Water gets into the windscreen wiper motor and causes it to fail. SPA platform models are affected; a 2020 recall addressed incorrectly tightened wiper arms. Visibility in rain significantly impaired.
The optional air suspension on the XC60 II frequently fails in cold weather. The compressor and dryer must be replaced together (Stage 3 repair); replacing just the compressor rarely lasts more than 2–3 months.
The Sensus infotainment system on the SPA platform (XC60 II, S90 II, V90 II, S60 III, V60 II) freezes or reboots while driving. Software updates improve stability. Steering wheel controls drop out sporadically.
On the XC60 II the electric tailgate lift arm loosens in low temperatures and impairs operation. Affects models from 2018 and 2019. Volvo issued a recall for this.
The optional panoramic roof on the V90 II and S90 II shows malfunctions when opening/closing automatically. Faulty sensors or motor controllers can be expensive; water ingress possible if the seal is damaged.
The Sensus infotainment system freezes on the XC60 II or shows a black screen. Software updates usually help; in stubborn cases a control unit replacement is needed.
Early XC60 II tailgate arms freeze solid below 0°C. Volvo recall for vehicles up to October 2018; lift arm replacement by Volvo dealer free of charge.
Rear brake pads on the XC60 II wear faster than usual due to the autopilot function and automatic handbrake. Regular inspection of pad condition is recommended.