2018 Volvo XC60 T8 Inscription: An Attractive, Efficient Crossover with Sensible Swedish Style [Review]

2018 Volvo XC60 T8 Inscription
[Photo: Volvo]
The Volvo XC60 has been redesigned for the 2018 model year. With this new model, there are two powertrain configurations and three trim levels. Power for T5 model XC60s is provided by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that delivers 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. T8 versions are more powerful, delivering 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque. T8 Volvo XC60s have a 2.0-liter supercharged and turbocharged engine, as well as an electric motor. The 2019 Volvo XC60 is available in three trim levels: Momentum, R-Design and Inscription.

This is the flagship: the 2018 Volvo XC60 T8 Inscription model, which starts at $52,900. After options and destination charges, that price rose to $71,590. What  all do you get for your money?

Volvo XC60 T8 Inscription
[Photo: Volvo]

WHAT’S NEW

The 2018 XC60 is an all-new model built on Volvo’s Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), like the XC90 and the S90 sedan. It bears the brand’s signature “Thor’s Hammer” headlights, and sports the latest available safety technology.

Visually, Volvo has brought the XC60 T8’s design into line with its bigger sibling, the XC90. Leading off, the trapezoidal grille wears an enlarged Iron Mark logo. The XC60’s tailgate opening is wide and accommodating. Total maximum cargo area measures out to 63.3 cubic feet. The rear seat is a three-piece 40/20/40 split/fold design as found in the V70 and XC70, each section folds down easily. Helpfully, that also creates a totally flat cargo platform for maximum flexibility and versatility.

2018 Volvo XC60 T8 Inscription
[Photo: Volvo]

COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE

The Volvo XC60 T8 eAWD includes as standard fare: rain sensor windshield wipers, headlight washers and Keyless Drive with Personal Car Communicator. Volvo Sensus gains increased steering wheel scroll control and functionality. The gearshift knob for the six-speed “Geartronic” automatic transmission features illuminated drive modes and paddle shifters A Sport mode comes with the Geartronic transmission and the headlights provide Tunnel Detection. Road Sign Information and Active High Beam are also included.

Pilot Assist, Volvo’s advanced semi-autonomous driver assistance system, which takes care of steering, acceleration and braking on well-marked roads up to 80 MPH, is available in the new XC60.

There are a plethora of options for the 2018 Volvo XC60 T8 Inscription. My test vehicle sported a Crystal White metallic exterior finish with a Cognac (Brown) and Charcoal-toned interior. The Inscription features kick off the price hike at $3,800. Then there’s the $2,000 Convenience Package and the $1,100 Vision Package. If you want the “Luxury Seat Package”, that’ll be $3,000. The Advanced Package adds another $1,900 to the final tally. Other extra costs included a black headliner and sport steering wheel, metallic paint, a Bowers & Wilkins Premium Sound System, air suspension; and destination charges. All those extra options add another $6,790, bringing the final tally to $71,590.

2018 Volvo XC60 T8 Inscription
2018 Volvo XC60 T8 powertrain [Photo: Volvo]

PERFORMANCE

The 2018 Volvo XC60 T8 Inscription makes its power from a 2.0-liter engine and an electric motor. But that’s not all – the four-cylinder engine is supercharged and turbocharged. The hybrid system’s combined total output is 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque. Since it does have an electric motor, it also delivers 26 City/28 Highway MPG, and it can drive up to 21 miles on all-electric energy. Power is fed through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The horsepower and torque are impressive with an instantaneous response and output. That power and torque pays dividends, as the XC60 accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds – not bad for a car weighing over two tons.

The 2018 Volvo XC60’s selectable driving modes allow for matching one’s driving mood and situation. They include an AWD mode, a Pure mode for efficient operation, along with Hybrid mode (the default), and a Power mode for sportier driving.

The 2.0-liter supercharged and turbocharged engine is both smooth and instantly responsive to spirited prodding. The ride quality is quite comfortable, even with sporty front sport seats hugging you more than in the ordinary ones.

Handling is sporty and nimble with positive handling characteristics.

TFLCAR’S TAKE

The 2018 Volvo XC60 T8 Inscription provides a good amount of power, practicality, comfort, and luxury for a family. It’s a worthy alternative to other competitors in the segment, including the BMW X5 and Audi Q7. To see more about what the XC60 is like, watch our video review below. Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car for more news, views, and real-world  reviews!

SPECIFICATIONS: 2018 Volvo XC60 T8 E Inscription

On Sale: Now
Base MSRP: $52,800.
Price as Tested:
$71,590.
Engine: Engine: 2.0-liter supercharged and turbocharged I-4

Electric Motor: 87 HP

Drivetrain (Layout): Transversely mounted front engine, all-wheel drive
Horsepower: 400 hp @ 6,000  RPM
Torque: 472 lb-ft @ 2,200 – 5,400 rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic with driver adaptive shift logic.
Suspension: Front: MacPherson strut w/ coil springs, hydraulic shock absorbers, stabilizer bar.

Rear: Multilink independent suspension w/ coil springs, hydraulic shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel ventilated discs w/ ABS
Tires: Continental CrossContact 255/45 R20 105H Mud & Snow rated
Fuel capacity: 13.2 gallons
Fuel economy (EPA): 26 mpg city / 28 mpg highway

Dimensions:

Wheelbase: 112.8 inches
Length:  184.6 inches
Width: 83.3 inches (including mirrors)
Height:  65.3 inches
Turning Circle: 37.4 feet
Curb Weight: 4,599 pounds