Volvo Cars has introduced new long-range plug-in hybrid versions of the XC60 and XC90, giving the SUVs substantially more electric driving range while retaining a petrol engine for longer journeys.
The new XC60 can travel up to 200km on electric power under preliminary WLTP testing, while the seven-seat XC90 offers up to 160km.
Volvo said that is more than two and a half times the electric range of the existing plug-in hybrid versions.
The improvement comes from a larger battery (from 18.8 kWh to 41.2 kWh) integrated into the floor and a more powerful electric motor. The petrol engine takes over when required, giving owners the flexibility of a conventional plug-in hybrid for longer-distance travel.
Both SUVs will continue to be offered with mild-hybrid powertrains.
The XC60 also receives a substantial update alongside the new drivetrain. Changes include a revised grille, front bumper, bonnet and front wings, along with new wheels and redesigned Thor’s Hammer Matrix LED headlights.
At the rear, Volvo has revised the tailgate, LED lamps and bumper. The cabin gets a redesigned dashboard and door panels, new wood trim and the option of Cardamom ventilated Nappa leather.
An 11.2-inch centre display runs the latest Volvo Car UX infotainment system. Google Gemini is also being introduced, allowing natural-language voice interaction for functions such as journey planning and messaging, although availability will vary by market.
Safety equipment has also been upgraded. The XC60 can use automatic emergency steering or braking when it detects a potential collision, while a door-opening alert can warn occupants about approaching cyclists.
Other assistance features include lane-change assist and a 360-degree camera with 3D view, supported by an updated suite of cameras, radars and other sensors.
The XC90 carries over its seven-seat layout and receives the same long-range plug-in hybrid strategy. It also gains Google Gemini, while an optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system remains available.
Volvo president and chief executive Håkan Samuelsson said the XC60, the company’s best-selling model of all time, and the XC90 remain important parts of its electrification strategy alongside fully electric models such as the EX60.
The new long-range XC60 and XC90 plug-in hybrids can already be ordered in selected markets, including Black Edition versions. Production is scheduled to begin later this autumn.
Volvo described the new models as its first long-range plug-in hybrids for Europe and the Americas, positioning them as an intermediate step for customers who want substantially more electric running without moving immediately to a fully electric car.
