Mercedes C300e/Volvo V60: comparison test | autozeitung.de

Central charging station wagons as temporary electric cars? The Mercedes C-Class T-model and the Volvo V60 have to show in a comparison test how well they handle charging cycles and transport tasks.

Mercedes C-Class T-Model and Volvo V60 in a comparison test

Funding for plug-in hybrids is long gone, but their ability to cover the German average daily driving distance of around 37 kilometers electrically and thus without domestic production remains. Whether that’s enough of a selling point remains to be seen. What cannot be ruled out, however, is the high speed of such phones when the electric engine and the combustion engine work together. This definitely has some driving pleasure. In the case of station wagons, there are also increased practical benefits. All in all, there are few reasons for the purchase decision, as long as the features are right. The comparison test looks closely at the Mercedes C-Class T-Model as the C 300e and the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid T8 AWD.
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Engine/transmission: Volvo V60 plug-in hybrid T8 AWD in 4.8 seconds to 100

When we talk about charging in hybrid plug-in station vehicles, this applies not only to transporting goods, but also to stations that need to draw electricity. Their time depends not only on the capacity of the battery, but also on the power of the charge. The Volvo V60 T8 AWD hybrid charges – the oldest – with a maximum of 6.4 kW alternative, while the Mercedes C 300e T-model can go to a fast charging station for an additional payment of 500 euros to receive charging power current of 55 kW. The Swabian’s power reserve (19.5 kWh net capacity) allows 78 kilometers of electric-only driving in the comparison test, while the Swede (14.7 kWh net capacity) leaves it at 55 kilometers before the combustion engine is switched on.

And how does the whole thing work? The 310 hp (228 kW) 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the V60 has a turbo with a Roots compressor and is assisted by a 107 kW (145 hp) motor driving the rear wheels. A system output of 455 HP (335 kW) and a system torque of 709 Nm allow Thor’s hammer to hit hard without delay. Accelerated from standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. However, the forward speed has decreased to 180 km / h.

When running, the C-Class can’t keep up with the 204 hp (150 kW) 2.0-liter turbo, which works at full load in conjunction with the 95 kW (129 hp) electric motor in the transmission house. It takes 6.0 s for the same exercise. The maximum speed is not small and is 240 km / h, which makes the maximum speed of transport possible on the free road. In addition, the Stuttgarter, with an average of 4.7 l and 9.8 kWh, performed significantly more economically in test consumption per 100 km than the Swede, who consumed 6.6 l and 7.4 kWh. Even if the Mercedes C 300e T model doesn’t have the same drivetrain as the Volvo V60 T8 AWD hybrid, it also drives very well in everyday life.

Driving dynamics: The Mercedes C-Class T-Model is more manageable

During the handling tests, the Volvo V60 showed a very good relationship on the road in the comparison test. Steering response isn’t perfect, but the steering angle could be a few degrees lower. However, its weight of 2057 kilometers greatly affects agility when changing direction. The driving behavior is not at all dependent, and electronic skid protection keeps the station wagon on a tight leash. All in all, sure, but it’s a shame, because the V60 certainly offers the possibility of more driving dynamics – no thanks to its advanced all-wheel drive.

The Mercedes C-Class T-Model looks more manageable. It follows steering commands more willingly, though with less feel in the steering wheel than the Volvo. On the other hand, less steering work is required in the Mercedes on hilly roads than the V60. If you reduce the throttle, the rear end turns moderately, and a little power oversteer is also possible. The C-Class never overwhelms you because the car’s responses are generally gentle rather than abrupt, which benefits control. The downside is the average control of the Mercedes brakes and the worse price of brake cooling compared to the Volvo.

Driving comfort: velvety comfort in the Mercedes C-Class T-model

Apart from testing driving dynamics, both hybrid vehicles are mostly used as motorhomes in everyday life. The Daimler with plug-in hybrid drive is equipped with air suspension on the rear axle and level control as standard, the Volvo V60 with a standard spring damping system. The advantages of the air suspension of the rear axle ensure an almost velvety cushion in the Mercedes C-Class T-Model at highway speeds, for example on bridge links. There is also nothing to complain about the standard spring and damper front axle. On the pit pavement, not only a good balance between the front and rear axles is visible, but also a great ability to swallow. When fully loaded, T-shaped spring and moisture even more confidently.

The Volvo V60 is a little complicated, but there is no uncomfortable configuration. It also exhibits good handling characteristics on rough roads, but cannot filter small bumps on the road surface very well. The Volvo sports seats are good, as they have a better shape than the Mercedes ones. Unlike its usual multi-contour chairs, there is no massage function here.

Body: Volvo V60 with more storage space

The shortcoming of plug-in hybrid technology in the Mercedes C 300 e T-model is revealed in its space requirements. This means that only 360 to 1375 liters are available for luggage. Battery and electric power take up space and ensure a raised trunk floor. Here, the Volvo V60 Plug-Hybrid T8 AWD offers significantly more with 519 to 1431 l despite its electric drive module on the rear axle. However, these numbers are only at the level of small cars of the compact class with standard drives. The space available for passengers has not changed compared to other engines. That means: in the Mercedes you feel a little cramped by the large center console, while the sense of headroom in the back of the Volvo is compromised by the side roof vents.

Many functions of vehicles from Mercedes and Volvo can be controlled via the respective touch screen. However, in the case of Swede, not all can be found at once. Driving mode selection, for example, is hidden behind a small gear symbol on the main screen. In general, the operating menu in the C-Class is clearer and more self-explanatory than in the V60. However, you need to learn how to use the touch and non-pressure steering wheel buttons on a Mercedes. For example, you need very sensitive fingers to reset the trip odometer.

Environment/Cost: Very similar in price

Before you start driving eco-friendly, the first thing to do is save money. Swabians and Swedes with test-related additions cost around 70,000 euros. That’s a tough word, given that private buyers of the plug-in only benefit from reduced vehicle taxes (until December 31, 2025) for vehicles with CO2 emissions of less than 95 grams per kilometer (according to the WLTP standard). As a result, test candidates only have to pay a car tax of ten euros per year, but considering the other costs, that is just a drop in the ocean.

Both full model classes (Mercedes C-Class T-Model: 26, Volvo V60: 22) and workshop costs (Mercedes 890 euros, Volvo according to ADAC estimates 830 euros per year) put a lot of strain on the budget, not to mention the loss of value – for the C-Class this is 42,149 euros and for the V60 39,267 euros (term four years, 80,000 km according to Deutscher Automobil Treuhand). An amount that many people don’t even have to buy a new car.

Technical data and specifications of the Mercedes C 300 e T-model & Volvo V60 plug-in hybrid T8 AWD

Results in points

Elmar Siepen

Our conclusion

Depending on your personal use profile, station wagons with plug-in hybrid drives can still be attractive today – provided the necessary financial resources are available. Then you can choose the Mercedes C 300 e T model, which wins the test with more comfort, high driving dynamics and the most modern hybrid car. Or you can opt for the Volvo V60 T8 AWD plug-in hybrid, which boasts its high-traction all-wheel drive and large trunk, but offers significant points in the car segment.