Volvo Car South Africa Unveils The New XC60

•  Choice of mild hybrid (B5) or plug-in hybrid (T8) powertrains, with up to 81 km of pure electric range and fuel consumption as low as 1.8L/100 km.
• Updated exterior styling, premium cabin finishes, and enhanced comfort features, including advanced air purification.
• New 11.2-inch Google-powered infotainment with Snapdragon Cockpit Platform, premium audio options, and comprehensive safety systems as standard.

Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) today introduced the new XC60 to the local market. With refreshed styling, an advanced user experience, updated design details, and enhanced comfort, the automaker’s best-selling model has received upgrades that bring it in line with Volvo’s growing lineup of electrified vehicles.

Since its debut in 2017, the XC60 has become Volvo’s top-selling model and one of Europe’s most successful plug-in hybrids. With more than 1.5 million units sold worldwide—and a record year in 2024—the refreshed XC60 is poised to continue setting the benchmark in its segment.

Electrified powertrains

The XC60 will continue to be offered with mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The B5 derivative, available on the Core and Plus trims, is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine paired with a 48-volt battery and an integrated starter generator (ISG), which helps reduce fuel consumption. The combined outputs of 183 kW and 350 Nm of torque provide responsive propulsion, with a 0–100 km/h acceleration time of 6.9 seconds. The XC60 B5 returns an impressive 7.6 L/100 km on the combined cycle and channels power to all four wheels via a smooth, eight-speed automatic transmission.

The T8 plug-in hybrid features a 340 kW/709 N.m ‘Twin Engine’ setup, combining a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor. This allows the XC60 T8 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds, while the 19 kWh battery provides a range of up to 81 km on pure electric power. The T8 delivers outstanding efficiency, with fuel consumption as low as 1.8 L/100 km, and is offered in Plus and Ultra trims. Like the B5, it comes with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Sophisticated design, inside and out

Visually, the refreshed XC60 adopts a cleaner, more contemporary presence. A reworked air intake and Volvo’s updated iron mark badge align it with the recently refreshed XC90, while darker rear lights and new wheel designs give the SUV a sharper, more defined stance. Two new colours—Forest Lake and Aurora Silver—join the palette, while Mulberry Red, previously seen on the EX90 and XC90, will be offered on the XC60 for the first time.

Inside, the XC60 continues to combine Scandinavian minimalism with practical versatility. New premium materials complement refreshed decorative inlays, creating a contemporary and exclusive cabin atmosphere. Practical enhancements include redesigned cup holders, an improved wireless phone charger, and additional storage, all integrated with a spacious and flexible boot.

Customers can personalise their XC60 with a variety of interior and exterior finishes. The B5 Core and T8 Plus trims feature a bright finish on the integrated roof rails, grille, and side window trim, while the B5 Plus and T8 Ultra receive a sportier dark finish in Glossy Black.

All models come standard with LED headlights. Wheel options vary by trim: the B5 Core comes standard with 18-inch wheels (upgradeable to 22 inches), the B5 and T8 Plus feature 19-inch alloys, and the T8 Ultra is equipped with 20-inch wheels. Optional 21- and 22-inch wheels are available across the range, and a panoramic sunroof is standard on all models except the B5 Core, where it is optional.

Enhanced comfort and well-being

The new XC60 offers an even quieter cabin environment than the outgoing model. Laminated windows and air suspension elevate refinement, while Volvo Cars’ advanced air purification technology contributes to occupant well-being.

The cabin accommodates five occupants across two rows, with a choice of several upholstery options. Ventilated Nappa leather is available for the B5 Plus, T8 Plus, and T8 Ultra. Navy Herringbone Textile is offered as a separate alternative option, while all models, including the B5 Core, can be specified with Nordico Vinyl. Ventilated front seats are available where compatible.

Interior décor has also been updated. The B5 Core features sporty Metal Mesh inlays, while the rest of the range can be specified with Natural Wood or White Wood finishes. An elegant Orrefors crystal gear selector enlivens the cabin on the B5 Plus, T8 Plus, and T8 Ultra models.

Standard features are generous, including a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory. The B5 Core has a manually adjustable passenger seat, while the rest of the lineup offers power adjustment and memory settings for both front seats. Heated seats (front and rear), a power-operated tailgate, climate control, a heated steering wheel, and keyless entry are also standard across the range.

New-generation user experience

At the heart of the update is Volvo’s new-generation infotainment system. Now faster and more responsive, the larger 11.2-inch free-standing touchscreen boasts 21% higher pixel density for a sharper display. Integrated Google services and over-the-air updates ensure the system remains current throughout the vehicle’s lifespan. A 12.3-inch Driver Display delivers all essential information directly to the driver.

Connectivity features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, two USB Type-C ports, and a wireless device charger.

Powered by the Snapdragon Cockpit Platform from Qualcomm Technologies, the new system more than doubles the speed of the previous version, delivering graphics up to ten times faster. The result is a smoother, more intuitive interface that reduces driver distraction and enhances safety.

Premium audio

A High Performance sound system is standard on the B5 Core, B5 Plus, and T8 Plus derivatives, with the optional Harman Kardon Audio system available for an elevated listening experience. The T8 Ultra comes standard with the Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system, which is also available as an optional feature on the B5 Plus and T8 Plus. Featuring a new speaker mesh design, it delivers studio-quality sound that faithfully reproduces music as the artist intended.

Safety is at the core of every journey

Volvo’s lifelong commitment to safety is at the heart of the new XC60, with every system designed to protect occupants, reduce risk, and enhance driver awareness. From cutting-edge active safety technologies to thoughtfully integrated passive protections, the XC60 provides peace of mind on every journey. The new XC60 is fitted with a host of advanced driver assistance systems, including:

S=Standard Equipment
O=Optional Extra

Aside from the driver assistance systems, the new XC60 comes equipped with a host of passive safety features, including driver and passenger airbags, Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) airbags, Inflatable curtain airbags, whiplash protection (WHIPS) for the front seats, and Isofix anchorages for the outer position rear seats.

“The new XC60 delivers clear, practical improvements in design, technology, and comfort, building on what has already made this model a global success,” commented Grant Locke, Managing Director of VCSA. “As Volvo’s best-selling model, with over 1.5 million units sold, the XC60 has proven its appeal with customers. These updates refine that proven recipe, ensuring drivers enjoy enhanced performance, smarter technology, and a safer, more comfortable driving experience without compromising the qualities that made the XC60 a benchmark in its segment.”

The new XC60 is available in four derivatives:

• XC60 B5 Core – R1,058,400
• XC60 B5 Plus – R1,116,300
• XC60 T8 PHEV Plus – R1,460,800
• XC60 T8 PHEV Ultra – R1,500,700

All variants are sold with a five-year/100,000 km warranty and a five-year/100,000 km service plan. On T8 PHEV models, the hybrid battery is covered for eight years/160,000 km, ensuring long-term peace of mind. Five years of unlimited roadside assistance also form part of the package.