The premium midsize electric crossover segment is heating up with the arrival of the new Volvo EX60, a vehicle poised to compete directly with established players like the BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC EV. Volvo’s latest offering enters the market with specifications that aim to match or surpass its German competitors across key categories, leveraging a clean-sheet design on an 800-volt platform.
Battery Capacity and Range Comparison
The Volvo EX60 will feature various configurations, with the top-tier P12 variant boasting a substantial 117 kWh battery pack. This configuration is projected to deliver a WLTP range of 503 miles (810 km), with an anticipated EPA rating of around 400 miles. This positions the EX60 to potentially offer the longest range in its class.
Previously, the BMW iX3 held the range crown with its 108.7 kWh battery, achieving a WLTP rating of 500 miles (805 km) and an EPA estimate of up to 400 miles. The Mercedes-Benz GLC EQ is equipped with a 94 kWh battery, offering a WLTP range of up to 443 miles, expected to translate to over 300 miles, possibly nearing 400 miles, on the EPA cycle. The Audi Q6 E-Tron, using a 95 kWh usable capacity battery, achieves a WLTP range of up to 392 miles (625 km), with a U.S. EPA estimate of 307 miles for the dual-motor Quattro variant.
Charging Speeds: The 20-Minute Benchmark
All four contenders utilize 800-volt architectures, enabling rapid charging capabilities. They are all capable of replenishing from 10% to 80% state of charge in approximately 20 minutes, with the ability to add about 186 miles (300 km) of range in just 10 minutes.
The Volvo EX60 leads this category with a 10-80% charging time of 19 minutes (18 minutes for smaller battery options). The BMW iX3 and Audi Q6 E-Tron require 21 minutes, while the Mercedes GLC EQ takes 22 minutes. Both Volvo and BMW can support charging speeds of up to 400 kilowatts, suggesting a potential advantage for Volvo in maintaining higher average charging power. Mercedes follows with a peak of 330 kW, and Audi with 270 kW.
Performance Metrics: Power and Acceleration
Currently, the Volvo EX60 P12 AWD variant emerges as the most powerful, producing 670 horsepower and 582 lb-ft (790 Nm) of torque, enabling a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration in a claimed 3.9 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 112 mph (180 km/h).
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 4Matic EQ is the next strongest, with 482 horsepower and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. It accelerates from 0-62 mph in 4.3 seconds and has a higher top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h). Mercedes is expected to introduce more potent AMG variants, potentially exceeding 900 hp. The GLC also features a two-speed gearbox, which could enhance both acceleration and efficiency.
The Audi Q6 E-Tron SQ6 Quattro delivers 509 hp, reaching 62 mph in 4.4 seconds, with a top speed of 143 mph (230 km/h). The standard Q6 E-Tron Quattro offers 456 hp and a 0-62 mph time of 5.1 seconds.
The BMW iX3 xDrive 50 currently produces 462 horsepower and 475 lb-ft (645 Nm) of torque, achieving 0-62 mph in 4.9 seconds. Future performance variants for BMW and Audi are anticipated, especially considering the related Porsche Macan EV’s 630 hp Turbo variant capable of 3.3-second 0-60 mph times.
Market Positioning and Outlook
While the Volvo EX60 currently leads in acceleration and charging speed, it has a lower top speed compared to its German rivals. However, future performance-oriented versions from BMW and Mercedes-Benz are expected to surpass the EX60 in outright speed and handling capabilities.
The rapid evolution of electric vehicle technology is evident, with the Audi Q6 E-Tron, once a benchmark, now trailing in charging and range metrics compared to its newer competitors. The EX60 stands out as a highly competitive offering, excelling in key areas for now.
This new generation of electric crossovers signifies a shift away from compromise, with vehicles offering substantial range and performance. While all four models present compelling options, the Volvo EX60 is positioned as a leading choice in the current market, ready to challenge the established order.