Volvo V60 II (Z252) (2018 – 2025)

Reliability score : 7.8/10

The second-generation Volvo V60 (codename Z252) is based on the modular SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) platform. Positioned as a premium family estate, it stands out with its clean Scandinavian design, high-level comfort, and state-of-the-art safety arsenal. From its launch, Volvo focused on electrification, gradually eliminating 100% internal combustion engines in favor of mild-hybrid (MHEV - 'B' badges) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV - 'Recharge' or 'Twin Engine' badges) versions. In 2022, a major technical facelift introduced the Android Automotive infotainment system and, most importantly, a new high-voltage battery for PHEVs (increasing from 11.6 kWh to 18.8 kWh), almost doubling the electric range and making the rear electric motor (ERAD) more reliable.

✅ Strengths

Timeless design and elegance of the shooting brake
Seat comfort (among the best in the automotive market)
Real-world electric range of post-2022 PHEV versions (often > 70 km)
Interior finish quality and materials
Exceptional Bowers & Wilkins audio system (optional)
Active and passive safety (IntelliSafe, Pilot Assist)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Very high weight (over 2 tons for PHEV versions), quickly wearing out brakes and tires
Reliability of the Android Automotive system on 2022-2023 model years (frequent bugs)
Costly problems with the rear electric motor (ERAD) on 2018-2021 PHEVs
Decent trunk volume (529 L) but lower than Volvo's historical benchmarks
Expensive dealership network for after-sales service

🎯 Verdict

The Volvo V60 II is an exceptional family estate that shines with its comfort and safety. If you are targeting a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, it is crucial to prioritize models produced from late 2021 (MY22 with 18.8 kWh battery). Not only does the electric range become truly usable in daily driving, but Volvo has especially corrected the chronic fragility of the rear electric motor (ERAD) in earlier versions. However, be aware of electronic bugs (TCAM module, Android Automotive) on these same recent model years: ensure that the vehicle has received all its software updates and antenna sealing fixes. Mild-hybrid versions (B4/B5) are excellent lighter and generally very reliable alternatives.

Common issues

Problèmes logiciels et système d'infodivertissement (Sensus/Android Automotive) Medium

🔧 Dès l'acquisition, persistant avec certaines versions logicielles

💶 0 € (mise à jour) – 800 € (remplacement module si nécessaire)

S'assurer des dernières mises à jour logicielles et tester toutes les fonctions.

Défaillance prématurée de la batterie 12V Medium

🔧 40 000 – 90 000 km

💶 180 – 350 €

Surveiller les alertes ou démarrages faibles, remplacer préventivement si doute.

Dysfonctionnements du système de charge (port, câble, électronique embarquée) Medium

🔧 60 000 – 130 000 km

💶 500 – 1 200 €

Tester la recharge avec différents équipements et vérifier l'état du port.

Alertes génériques du système hybride (ex: 'Service Hybride Requis') Medium

🔧 80 000 – 160 000 km

💶 300 € (capteur) – 3 000 €+ (composant majeur)

Faire diagnostiquer rapidement par un spécialiste Volvo ou hybride.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Complete brakes	£280 – 580
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.