Volvo XC60 set for another major update

The Volvo XC60 received an update just a year ago and, even though it has been on the market for almost a decade, it is still a long way from retirement.

At a time when the brand has partly stepped back from its plan to become 100% electric, the XC60 has taken on even greater importance. Rather than being phased out, the SUV is set to stay on sale for several more years, alongside its new “brother”, the EX60, which is 100% electric.

Why the Volvo XC60 still matters

This is not just any Volvo. In 2025, it became the Swedish brand’s best-selling model of all time. With more than 2.7 million units sold, it overtook the iconic Volvo 240.

For that very reason - and because even a winning team can be improved - Volvo is preparing to refresh the XC60 again, and we have already “caught” the first prototypes. This time around, the changes are expected to be more substantial.

What will change?

Despite the camouflage, the prototypes hint at more extensive visual tweaks than those introduced in the model’s last facelift. Up front, the new Volvo XC60 is likely to feature slimmer headlamps and a revised grille with a more intricate internal pattern.

Lower down, the bumper is also set to be subtly reworked, swapping the current model’s triangular side air intakes for square-shaped openings.

At the rear, the updates should focus mainly on the tail-lights, which are expected to stretch further horizontally across the tailgate. The tailgate itself also appears to have been redesigned, and the section for the number plate looks slightly smaller, with a cleaner, simpler look.

Inside, however, no major changes are anticipated. After all, the latest update introduced a new Google-based infotainment system, built into a new 11.2” central display.

A plug-in hybrid with the range of an electric car

The biggest developments may be in the area you cannot see: under the bonnet. The Volvo XC60 will continue to be offered with 48 V petrol mild-hybrid powertrains and plug-in hybrids, but the latter are likely to receive the most significant revisions.

According to rumours, the Swedish manufacturer is preparing a major evolution of these powertrains to meet future Euro 7 emissions rules.

One of the most notable changes could be the all-electric range of these versions, which is expected to be around 200 km on the combined (WLTP) cycle. If confirmed, that would put it close to fully electric alternatives from lower segments - and even to what Volvo already offers in China with the XC70.

When will the updated Volvo XC60 arrive?

Volvo has not yet confirmed when the new Volvo XC60 will reach the market, but everything suggests it will happen during the first half of next year.