The 2022 Volvo XC60 is available in four distinct trim levels: Momentum, R-Design, Inscription, and the performance-oriented Polestar Engineered. These trims are categorized by their aesthetic focus—ranging from "Essential Luxury" to "Sport" and "Sophisticated Luxury"—and are paired with B5, B6, or T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid powertrains to suit diverse driving needs.
The 2022 model year represented a pivotal moment for the Volvo XC60. As we look at these vehicles in 2026, they remain highly sought-after on the secondary market due to Volvo’s significant mid-cycle refresh that occurred this year. This update introduced the Android Automotive operating system and replaced the older T5 and T6 gasoline engines with new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid units. Understanding the nuances between these trims is essential for identifying the specific balance of comfort, technology, and performance that fits your lifestyle.
The Foundation: Understanding the 2022 Powertrain Options
Before selecting a trim, it is vital to understand the "B-badged" engines that debuted in 2022. Unlike previous years, every 2022 XC60 features some level of electrification. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system utilizes an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) to support the combustion engine, resulting in smoother start-stop transitions and improved fuel efficiency during city driving.
The B5 Mild Hybrid
The B5 serves as the entry-point powertrain. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. In 2022, this was the only powertrain offered with a choice between Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD). It is designed for drivers who prioritize efficiency and a composed, comfortable commute over raw acceleration.
The B6 Mild Hybrid
The B6 powertrain increases performance by adding an electric supercharger to the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. This configuration delivers 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The primary benefit of the B6 is the elimination of "turbo lag," as the electric supercharger provides immediate low-end boost before the turbocharger takes over. All B6 models come standard with AWD, making them a preferred choice for those living in climates with frequent snow or rain.
The T8 Recharge (Plug-in Hybrid)
The T8 Recharge is the pinnacle of the XC60 lineup. It combines a turbocharged engine with a potent electric motor. In early 2022, the T8 produced 400 horsepower, but a mid-year update (often referred to as the "Extended Range" model) boosted this to a staggering 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. This update also increased the electric-only driving range from roughly 19 miles to an EPA-estimated 36 miles, making the late-2022 T8 one of the most capable PHEVs in its class.
Momentum: The Entry into Scandinavian Luxury
The Momentum trim serves as the foundation of the XC60 lineup, but "entry-level" is a relative term in the luxury segment. Volvo designed the Momentum to provide all the essential safety and technology features expected of the brand without the higher price tag of the specialized trims.
Inside the Momentum, you will find a cabin defined by "Iron Ore" aluminum inlays and high-quality textile or optional leather upholstery. Even at this level, the 2022 XC60 included the 12.3-inch digital driver display and the new 9-inch Google-based infotainment system. This system integrates Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store directly into the car’s interface, allowing for seamless voice-controlled navigation and media.
Standard exterior features for the Momentum include 18-inch 5-double spoke alloy wheels, LED headlights with Volvo’s signature "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights, and a panoramic moonroof that floods the cabin with natural light. For many drivers, the Momentum offers the best value proposition, especially when equipped with the B5 powertrain.
R-Design: The Athletic Contender
The R-Design trim is tailored for those who prefer a more aggressive, sporty aesthetic. While it does not necessarily change the mechanical output of the B5 or B6 engines, it significantly alters the vehicle's visual presence and interior tactile feel.
On the exterior, the R-Design replaces the standard chrome brightwork with high-gloss black accents. This includes the grille, window surrounds, and side mirror caps. It also features unique 19-inch 5-double spoke matt black diamond-cut alloy wheels. The front and rear fascias are also slightly reshaped to look lower and wider, giving the XC60 a more planted stance.
Inside, the R-Design features a "Charcoal" theme. The seats are upgraded to sportier contours with increased lateral support, upholstered in a combination of Nappa leather and "Open Grid" textile. The interior trim is swapped from aluminum to "Metal Mesh" inlays, and the steering wheel is wrapped in perforated leather. This trim is often paired with the B6 or T8 powertrains to match the "sporty" visuals with more robust performance.
Inscription: The Pinnacle of Sophistication
If the R-Design is about "Sport," the Inscription is about "Luxury." This trim level is designed to compete with the highest-tier offerings from German rivals, focusing on traditional luxury materials and enhanced passenger comfort.
The Inscription is easily identified by its abundance of chrome. The front grille features vertical chrome bars, and additional chrome strips run along the side doors and rear bumper. It typically rides on 19-inch 10-spoke black diamond-cut alloy wheels that favor elegance over aggression.
The true magic of the Inscription happens inside the cabin. It features ventilated Nappa leather seats as standard, which are widely considered some of the most comfortable in the automotive industry. Genuine "Driftwood" inlays provide a natural, matte-finish wood texture that feels distinctly Scandinavian. Perhaps the most iconic feature of the Inscription is the Orrefors® crystal gear shifter, handcrafted by Swedish glassmakers. This trim level also unlocks more options for interior color palettes, including the popular "Amber" or "Blonde" leather interiors.
Polestar Engineered: High-Performance Electrification
Reserved exclusively for the T8 Recharge powertrain, the Polestar Engineered trim is the most specialized version of the 2022 XC60. It is not merely an appearance package; it includes significant mechanical upgrades developed by Volvo’s performance partner, Polestar.
The most notable upgrade is the inclusion of Öhlins Dual Flow Valve (DFV) dampers. These are manually adjustable shock absorbers that allow the driver to fine-tune the suspension for different road conditions. Additionally, the Polestar Engineered features massive gold-painted Akebono brake calipers and specialized 21-inch forged wheels.
Inside, the performance theme continues with gold seatbelts—a hallmark of Polestar—and a tailored dashboard with contrast stitching. In terms of power, the Polestar Engineered utilizes the same 455-horsepower "Extended Range" setup found in the late-2022 T8, but with a specific software tune that prioritizes faster gear shifts and rear-wheel torque distribution for a more rear-biased, sporty driving experience.
2022 Volvo XC60 Trim Comparison Table
| Feature | Momentum | R-Design | Inscription | Polestar Engineered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Theme | Essential Luxury | Sport / Athletic | Sophisticated Luxury | Ultimate Performance |
| Standard Engine | B5 (Mild Hybrid) | B5 or B6 | B5 or B6 | T8 Recharge (PHEV) |
| Wheels | 18" 5-Spoke Alloy | 19" Gloss Black | 19" 10-Spoke Black | 21" Forged Alloy |
| Seating Material | Textile/Leather | Nappa/Open Grid | Ventilated Nappa | Nappa/Open Grid |
| Interior Inlays | Iron Ore Aluminum | Metal Mesh | Driftwood | Metal Mesh |
| Exterior Accents | Body Color/Chrome | High-Gloss Black | High-Gloss Chrome | Black/Gold Accents |
| Special Features | Google Infotainment | Sport Seats | Crystal Shifter | Öhlins Dampers |
Key Packages and Standalone Options
While the trim levels define the character of the vehicle, Volvo offered several "packages" in 2022 that could be added to almost any trim level. When shopping for these vehicles today, verifying the presence of these packages is critical for understanding the total feature set.
- Climate Package: Essential for cold climates, this added a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and a headlamp cleaning system.
- Advanced Package: This was a highly popular addition. It included the Head-Up Display (HUD), a 360-degree camera system, and Volvo's "Pilot Assist" semi-autonomous driving system, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping aid.
- Audio Upgrades: While a 10-speaker high-performance system was standard, many R-Design and Inscription models were fitted with the 14-speaker Harman Kardon system. The audiophile-grade Bowers & Wilkins 15-speaker system, featuring a "Nautilus" tweeter and a "Concert Hall" mode, was an expensive but highly desirable standalone option.
- Air Suspension: Available on higher trims, the 4-Corner Air Suspension with Four-C Active Chassis replaced standard springs with air bags, allowing for a self-leveling ride and the ability to raise or lower the vehicle for easier loading or improved aerodynamics.
Common Questions About 2022 XC60 Trims
What is the difference between the B5 and B6 engines?
The B5 engine uses a single turbocharger and is suitable for most daily driving, offering a balance of efficiency and power. The B6 engine adds an electric supercharger to the turbocharger, providing more immediate power at low RPMs and a higher total output (295 hp vs 247 hp). The B6 is also AWD only, whereas the B5 was available in FWD.
Does the 2022 XC60 have Apple CarPlay?
At the initial launch of the 2022 model year, Apple CarPlay was notably absent because the new Google-based infotainment system was still being updated. However, Volvo released a software update (Over-the-Air) shortly after that enabled wired Apple CarPlay. By 2026, all used 2022 XC60s should have this functionality enabled via software updates.
Which 2022 trim is the most reliable?
Mechanically, the B5 Momentum is often cited as the most straightforward configuration. It lacks the complex supercharger of the B6 and the battery/motor complexity of the T8 Recharge. However, the T8 "Extended Range" models produced later in the 2022 cycle are highly regarded for their refined electric-to-gas transitions.
How do I tell if a 2022 T8 is the "Extended Range" version?
The easiest way to verify is to check the battery capacity in the vehicle settings or the window sticker. The "Extended Range" model features an 18.8 kWh battery (up from 11.6 kWh) and a more powerful 143 hp rear electric motor. If the dashboard shows an electric range of 30+ miles at full charge, it is the Extended Range version.
Is the Polestar Engineered worth the extra cost?
For the average luxury buyer, the Inscription or R-Design provides plenty of performance. The Polestar Engineered is designed for enthusiasts who appreciate technical components like Öhlins dampers and Akebono brakes. If you do not plan on manually adjusting your suspension or driving spiritedly on twisty roads, the T8 Inscription offers similar power with a more comfortable ride.
Expert Recommendation for 2026 Buyers
When evaluating the 2022 Volvo XC60 trim levels in the current market, the Inscription with the B6 powertrain often represents the "sweet spot" for luxury and capability. The B6 engine provides the necessary punch to move this heavy SUV with authority, while the Inscription's ventilated Nappa leather and crystal shifter provide a tactile experience that feels significantly more premium than the Momentum.
However, if your budget allows, the 2022.5 (Extended Range) T8 Recharge is the smartest long-term investment. With its 36 miles of electric range, many drivers can complete their daily commute without using a drop of gasoline, while still having 455 horsepower available for highway merging. Regardless of the trim you choose, ensure the vehicle has the Advanced Package, as the Pilot Assist system and 360-degree camera are features that significantly improve the daily ownership experience and help maintain the vehicle's resale value.
