BMW 330e vs Volvo S60 T8: verdict and specifications

A better driving experience and lower purchase price hand victory to the BMW

BMW 330e vs Volvo S60 T8

You could argue that the Volvo S60 is a very different prospect to the BMW 330e, given its superior performance and all-wheel-drive powertrain as well as a fractionally larger body. While the all-weather traction will hold big appeal for many buyers, the reality is that the BMW doesn’t feel much slower than the Volvo in real-world use and is also noticeably more enjoyable to drive, whether you want to relax or have fun.

Between that, the added versatility of its underfloor storage and the vastly lower purchase cost, it's hard to justify the Volvo, despite the S60’s sumptuous finish and rampant pace.

1st: BMW 330e M Sport (4.5 /5)

The BMW 330e isn’t flawless. We’d like a touch more standard equipment, underfloor storage that more easily takes the cables and Android Auto as standard. But for its efficiency, the way it drives, the sense of quality inside and the standard of the infotainment, it’s a remarkably complete package and our favourite plug-in hybrid executive car.

2nd: Volvo S60 T8 R-Design Plus (3.0 /5)

That star rating might seem harsh, since we genuinely enjoy and appreciate the performance, efficiency and all-round style and desirability of the S60. But its price is hard to stomach despite its pace, the infotainment feels a generation behind the BMW’s and the lack of cable storage will be a daily frustration. The S60 T8 is a lovely car, but the BMW betters it on almost all the critical fronts.

Specifications (modify table as necessary)

CarBMW 330e M SportVolvo S60 T8 R Design Plus Polestar Engineered
List price£39,980£49,805
Monthly finance (PCP)£530*£700*
Engine2.0-litre turbocharged with electric motor2.0-litre twin-charged with electric motor
TransmissionEight-speed automatic / rear-wheel driveEight-speed automatic / four-wheel drive
Battery capacity12kWh11.8kWh
Power / torque288bhp / 420Nm395bhp / 430Nm
0-62mph5.9 seconds4.4 seconds
Top speed143mph155mph
100% charge cost at 14p/kWh£1.46£1.38
Charge time (wallbox)3hrs 30mins3hrs 15mins
Official MPG / CO2 / electric range201mpg / 37g/km / 37 miles105-177mpg / 39-48g/km / 27-36 miles
On-test MPG / electric range40mpg / 31 miles36mpg / 29 miles
Road tax£140£465
BiK rate 10%10%
Length / width / height / wheelbase4,709 / 1,827 / 1,444mm4,761 / 1,916 / 1,437mm
Boot capacity (seats up)375 Iitres390 litres

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