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IMPRESSION
July 28, 2021
Volvo XC60 x Hiramatsu Miyota: An Ideal Marriage | VOLVO
XC60's Top-Tier PHEV Model, the T8
The test car, named the Volvo XC60 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T8 AWD Inscription, measures 4,690mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,660mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,865mm. Apart from its slightly wider body, its dimensions are practical for use in Japan.
The powertrain is a high-tech plug-in hybrid system combining a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged and supercharged gasoline engine with an intercooler, producing a maximum output of 233kW (318ps) at 6,000rpm and a maximum torque of 400Nm between 2,200 and 5,400rpm. It's paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, driving all four wheels.
The 96-cell lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 34Ah, allowing for 40.9km of electric-only driving. The battery can be charged through various methods, including regenerative braking, a charge mode that utilizes engine power, and external charging via a port located on the left front fender.
The default driving mode is "Hybrid," and if the battery is sufficiently charged, it starts driving in EV mode. The silent, torque-filled acceleration of the large SUV body from a standstill is so impressive that it elicits an "Oh!" of surprise.
On the highway towards Miyota Town, just beyond Karuizawa, we actively utilized Volvo's proprietary ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems). By activating the Adaptive Cruise Control with full-speed range and Pilot Assist (lane-keeping support, up to 130 km/h) using the switches on the left steering column, the XC60 maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead and stays centered in its lane, enabling a safe and comfortable drive.
The seats, upholstered in exquisite perforated fine Nappa leather, feature ventilation and massage functions, ensuring no fatigue even after a continuous drive of approximately 180km from Tokyo. Noticing the battery was depleted, we selected the charge mode on the infotainment screen and continued driving while recharging the battery with engine power.
We turned off the Asama Sunshine Line, which runs slightly beyond Karuizawa towards Komoro, and ascended the winding road leading to the hotel, with the green expanse of Lake Usui spread out below. Upon entering the driveway, where young staff greeted us, we chose EV mode for a quiet, emission-free approach. The parking lot at Hiramatsu Miyota is equipped with two EV chargers, allowing us to fully recharge the battery during our stay. The meter displayed a charging completion time, a remaining range of 580km, and an average fuel economy of 12.6 km/l, which was surprisingly the exact WLTC mode fuel economy for this vehicle.