Volvo’s new EX60 has arrived as a mid-size electric SUV promising more than 500 miles of range, strong performance and the understated Scandinavian design for which the brand has become known.
However, the EX60 enters an increasingly competitive part of the electric car market. The BMW iX3 is already capable of travelling more than 500 miles on a charge and undercuts the Volvo on price, leaving the EX60 with plenty to prove.
Clean Scandinavian Styling
From the outside, the Volvo EX60 makes a strong first impression, combining familiar Volvo design cues with a clean and relatively restrained approach.
At the front are the brand’s distinctive ‘Thor’s Hammer’ daytime running lights, while the main headlights are positioned separately beneath them. The centre section is deliberately uncluttered, with Volvo neatly integrating the various driving sensors rather than allowing them to dominate the design.
The simple theme continues along the sides. Cars equipped with the Black Pack replace the standard silver window surrounds with darker trim, giving the EX60 a slightly sportier appearance.
At the rear, there are clear similarities with the smaller Volvo EX30. It is a familiar look, but one that works well on the larger SUV, helping to give the EX60 a clean and contemporary appearance.
Premium Interior With a Minimalist Approach
The EX60’s cabin is arguably one of its strongest features. Soft-touch materials are used extensively, while the seats deliver the comfort expected from a modern Volvo.
Its steering wheel introduces an unusual design, but the layout has been engineered to maintain a clear view of the digital driver display.
A large central touchscreen dominates the dashboard and is both responsive and visually impressive. As with a growing number of modern cars, however, Volvo has moved the majority of vehicle functions into the touchscreen, which may not appeal to drivers who prefer traditional physical controls.
The gear selector is mounted on the steering column, freeing additional space around the centre console. Storage is generous throughout the cabin, although the EX60 does without a conventional glovebox.
Three EX60 Powertrains
The Volvo EX60 range begins with the Plus P6, using a single electric motor driving the rear wheels and producing 374bhp.
Moving up the range brings the Ultra P10, which adds a dual-motor drivetrain and increases output to 510hp.
At the top of the line-up sits the Ultra P12, producing a substantial 680hp and capable of accelerating from 0-60mph in just 3.9 seconds.
Combined with a claimed driving range of more than 500 miles in suitable versions, the EX60 demonstrates how rapidly long-distance electric SUVs are developing.
Volvo EX60 Prices
UK prices start from £56,860 for the entry-level EX60, rising to £70,360 for the range-topping version.
That pricing also creates one of the EX60’s biggest challenges. BMW’s latest iX3 offers similarly impressive long-distance electric capability while costing less, making the comparison between the two particularly interesting.
The Volvo counters with an attractive exterior, beautifully presented interior, impressive comfort and a choice of increasingly powerful electric drivetrains.
Motoring Echo Verdict
The Volvo EX60 appears to have all the ingredients required to become one of the brand’s most important electric cars. More than 500 miles of potential range tackles one of the biggest remaining concerns surrounding EV ownership, while its combination of performance, practicality and understated design gives the EX60 considerable appeal.
But the competition has moved quickly. With the BMW iX3 offering comparable range at a lower starting price, choosing between the two may ultimately come down to whether buyers place greater value on Volvo’s distinctive Scandinavian approach or BMW’s alternative interpretation of the premium electric SUV.
Would you choose the Volvo EX60 or BMW iX3? Let us know in the comments.
