In his latest article, Al Suttie picks out five key highlights for the plug-in hybrid version of Volvo’s midsize SUV stalwart.

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Volvo XC60 T8 (455) AWD PHEV Ultra Dark

List price: £68,330  BiK: 10%  CO2: 23g/km  Economy: 282.5mpg/47.2 miles  Test efficiency: 43.4mpg/38 miles

Takeaway One:

It’s hard to credit that Volvo’s XC60 is closing in on being a decade old. The previous generation notched up 10 years and the current car shows no signs of losing its appeal. Classy looks, helped by subtle updates, have retained its appeal, while the adoption of plug-in hybrid tech keeps it relevant to fleet drivers. In this case, we’re testing the T8 (455) AWD Ultra Dark, which is at the upper end of the range.

Takeaway Two:

The XC60’s 21-inch alloy wheels had me worried – would it still ride as smoothly as I remembered? Fortunately, that concern was unfounded and the Volvo did a superb job of gliding over even the roughest back roads in my rural part of the world. On the motorway, it was solidly sure-footed and there was no noticeable increase in tyre noise compared to other XCs I’ve driven.

Takeaway Three:

Volvos and boot space go hand in hand, and it’s why my own car is a V90. Comparing its cargo area with the XC60, the SUV has less load capacity and a higher sill height, which means I wouldn’t be able to fit in our dog’s cage. Not a deal breaker if it was a straight choice between the two models, though Volvo no longer offers the V90 new in the UK so it’s not an issue. Also, the XC is still more than generous for carting around a four-legged friend or other precious goods.

Takeaway Four:

With no home charger at present, it takes me a smidgeon more effort to top up a plug-in hybrid car. The risk is you simply let the internal combustion engine do the work. However, the XC60 was quick to top up with electricity and enjoyably quiet and smooth to drive in EV-only mode. It’s also impressively quick when the two power sources combine to full effect for rapid overtaking. Volvo quotes 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds and it feels every bit as quick as that claim.

Takeaway Five:

I was a little unsure of the revised infotainment screen in the XC60 to begin with. Essentially, it’s plonked on top of where the original screen went but the 11.2-inch display in portrait orientation is clear and simple to work with. It’s not as overpowering on the dash as some rivals, which is a welcome relief and adds to the overall classy feel of the Volvo interior.