India-bound new Volvo S60 gets a plug-in hybrid powertrain

-         The S60 sedan gets a 390bhp T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain

-         Only available in the top-spec R-Design Plus trim.

-         Expected to be offered in India as well when it is launched in the country.

Volvo has added a plug-in hybrid version in the new-generation S60 line-up, while also rejigging its entire portfolio. Joining the T5 turbo-petrol is the new T8 trim which comes with a 303bhp petrol engine and an 87bhp electric motor.

A combined output of 390bhp is enough to catapult the sedan from 0-100kmph in just 4.6 seconds. The T8’s 11.8kWh battery provides an electric-only range of up to 36 miles (around 57 kilometres) with a WLTP-claimed fuel economy of 176.5mpg (62.5kmpl). Just like the T5, the new T8 uses the same eight-speed automatic transmission mated to Volvo’s Drive-E powertrain.

Apart from the new hybrid powertrain, the T8 continues to benefit from T5’s driving dynamics. Which include stiffer springs, faster-responding monotube dampers, thicker anti-roll bars and a 12mm lower ride height (petrol-electric hybrid R-Design Plus variants come with the standard suspension settings). Other R-Design Plus highlights include a head-up display, gearshift paddles, high­gloss black exterior trim elements, a choice of 18­, 19­ or 20-inch alloy wheels, metal mesh aluminium interior inlays and part-leather sports seats.

Apart from the new plug-in hybrid and the revamped line-up, Volvo has also confirmed there is a fully-blown S60 Polestar in the making. Details of this 405bhp T8 Polestar Engineered version will be announced shortly. Meanwhile, Volvo India is yet to bring in the new S60 to our shores. It is likely to arrive by next year and we expect the plug-in hybrid to also be a part of the package.