Swedish automaker Volvo has unveiled a new plug-in hybrid powertrain for its XC60 and XC90 SUVs, enabling the XC60 to achieve an impressive 124 miles in electric-only mode, the longest range of any plug-in hybrid vehicle currently available. This development marks a strategic shift for Volvo, as the company invests in long-range hybrid technology, having adjusted its plans for full electrification of its vehicles in the near future.
Enhanced battery technology extends electric range
The updated all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid powertrain retains its 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine foundation but increases battery capacity from 19kWh to 41.2kWh and incorporates a more powerful electric motor. This enhancement allows the XC60 to offer two distinct plug-in hybrid variants: the 178bhp T6, boasting a claimed electric-only range of 124 miles, and the 246bhp T8, capable of 117 miles on a single charge.
The T6 variant’s range represents a significant improvement, more than doubling the 49 miles achievable by the previous XC60 plug-in hybrid model. Notably, this range also matches that of the XC70, a slightly larger crossover currently exclusive to the Chinese market but potentially destined for the UK. Volvo describes the XC60’s maximum electric range as “class-leading”, surpassing the longest-range plug-in hybrid versions of rival models, such as the BMW X3 30e, Audi Q5 TFSIe, and Mercedes GLC PHEV, which achieve 56, 62, and 80 miles, respectively, on electric power.
The XC60 T6 will offer the longest electric-only range of any plug-in hybrid vehicle in the UK, outperforming the current leader, the Omoda 9 SHS, by 19 miles. Volvo’s strategic pivot towards long-range hybrids is timely, given the rising demand for plug-in hybrid vehicles in the UK. The introduction of these new models is expected to further bolster the segment’s growth.
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Design and interior enhancements
Despite the integration of a larger battery, Volvo assures that the clever packaging design will preserve the boot space, currently measuring 468 litres with the rear seats upright in the outgoing model. In addition to the new plug-in hybrid options, both the XC90 and XC60 will be available with a 250bhp B5 mild hybrid petrol powertrain. The XC60 has also undergone a significant design refresh, mirroring the updates recently applied to the XC40. The changes encompass a completely revamped front end, featuring new wings, bonnet, front bumper, and a slimmer grille, as well as the introduction of new LED Matrix ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlights.
Furthermore, the rear of the vehicle has been redesigned, with new rear lights, tailgate, and rear bumper, excluding the rear window. Additional updates include the availability of new 20-in and 21-in wheels and a new ‘Heather Bronze’ paint colour. Inside, the XC60 features updated premium materials and an 11.2in touchscreen with Volvo’s latest user interface, also found in the latest 40 series cars. This new infotainment system incorporates features such as Google’s Gemini AI assistant and an optional 360deg exterior camera.
Pricing and charging details
The XC90, having undergone a major facelift in 2024, will receive the new infotainment system but will not feature any new exterior or interior styling updates. Both models will benefit from future over-the-air updates. Volvo claims that the new battery will require four hours to charge from 0 to 100% using a 16A home charger, a increase from the three hours required by the outgoing models. Although pricing for the new models has not been confirmed, the current starting prices for the XC60 and XC90 are £50,000 and £66,000, respectively, with the plug-in hybrid variants commanding a premium of £6,000-£7,000.
