Used hybrids: BMW 330e vs Volvo S60: verdict

Our verdict

The good news is that buying either of these two at a year old seems like a sound bet because it will save you plenty of money on the cost of a new one. However, whether or not either of these two cars proves to be anywhere near as economical to run as they promise on paper depends on your lifestyle and how you'll use them. If most of your journeys are short and you have access to a regular charging point you could be surprised how much you can save on fuel costs. 

But it's the BMW 3 Series 330e that'll be the cheaper car here, and not just to buy – it's more economical and will cost less to insure and service, too. It's also a great deal nicer to punt around your favourite roads.

Yes, the Volvo S60 may be faster, but aside from its blistering acceleration, it isn’t a particularly rewarding car to drive. And it’s not as though the 330e is at all sluggish. Indeed, the S60’s most relevant advantage is its bigger boot, but that still isn’t enough to steal it the win.

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1st – BMW 3 Series 330e M Sport (M Sport Plus Pack) 

For More agile and heaps more fun to drive; excellent infotainment system; much cheaper to buy and run; better visibility

Against You won’t fit much in the boot; road noise; firmer ride won’t be to all tastes

5 out of 5 stars

Read the full used BMW 330e review

Find a used BMW 330e for sale

2nd - Volvo S60 T8 Twin Engine AWD R-Design Plus

For Rapid acceleration; more rear leg room; bigger boot; calmer motorway ride; great driving position; quality interior

Against More expensive; not much fun to drive; heavier depreciation

4 out of 5 stars

Read the full used Volvo S60 review

Find used Volvo S60 for sale

Specifications: BMW 3 Series 330e M Sport (M Sport Plus Pack) 

• Engine 4cyl, 1998cc, petrol + electric motor 
• Power 288bhp (combined)
• Torque 310lb ft (combined)
• Gearbox 8-spd dual-clutch automatic
• 0-60mph 6.2sec
• Top speed 142mph
• Official fuel economy 176.6mpg (WLTP)
• Test MPG 37.2mpg (tested with empty battery)
• Test electric range 26.5 miles 
• CO2 emissions 38%/km

Specifications: Volvo S60 T8 Twin Engine AWD R-Design Plus

• Engine 4cyl, 1969cc, petrol + electric motor
• Power 386bhp (combined)
• Torque 472lb ft (combined)
• Gearbox 8-spd dual-clutch automatic
• 0-60mph 5.3sec
• Top speed 155mph
• Official fuel economy 156.6mpg (WLTP)
• Test MPG 36.0mpg (tested with empty battery)
• Test electric range 24.8 miles
• CO2 emissions 47g/km

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