Volvo XC60 refreshes ahead of EX60 launch

The marque’s popular medium SUV undergoes another update before its electric sib, the EX60, dots down.

A new-look exterior and interior were necessary for the XC60, to avoid it looking dated when its electric equivalent launches.

The new grille reminds of that fitted to the XC90, and there are also darker rear lights. New wheel designs are coming as well.

Inside is an upsized 11.2-inch infotainment touchscreen that is oriented in portrait fashion. It is said to be twice as quick to respond, with an updated chip from Qualcomm. Graphics are crisper too, according to Volvo.

Read more about the EX60 here.

More premium upholstery options are on offer, including a combination of Nordico synthetic leather and herringbone-pattern fabric. Volvo has also worked on improving cabin refinement for the latest XC60.

Under the bonnet is a 185kW mild hybrid while a 335kW plug-in hybrid is the alternative.

XC60s with steel suspension receive new dampers for a more pliant ride.

Prices are likely to rise slightly compared with the outgoing version of the XC60. It should be here by year end and will likely sell alongside the EX60 which is due out next year.

Volvo chief, Jim Rowan, said “We will be ready to go fully electric this decade, but if the market infrastructure and customer acceptance are not quite there, we can allow that to take a few more years.” 

“The transition to electrification will not be linear. Customers and markets are moving at different speeds, and therefore we will continue to invest in our hybrids. Wherever you are in your journey to electric driving, you can have a Volvo to suit your needs and your situations.”