2018 Volvo XC60 (2nd Generation)

Crucial Volvo EX60 shown for the first time ahead of 2026 launch'

Electric equivalent of best-selling XC60 SUV will provide 'huge boost' to Swedish firm's EV ambitions

Volvo has shown a first glimpse of the new EX60, the electric equivalent of the XC60 family SUV, which has long been its best-seller.

Previewed as an almost fully covered clay model during the launch of the new Volvo ES90 saloon, the EX60 is set to arrive next year as a crucial model in the Swedish firm’s electric push.

The first EX60 test vehicles will be built and driven this year, the company confirmed during a financial results presentation in February.

The electric SUV will be the first Volvo to use the advanced, highly scalable SPA3 platform, which is effectively a successor to the platform that underpins the EX90 large SUV and ES90. This new architecture will allow Volvo to add both smaller and larger cars to its line-up.

As with those models, the EX60 will be designed around an advanced software stack, giving it the capability to accept over-the-air updates and extra features.

Bosses have previously described the model as a "huge boost" in Volvo's electrification journey, given that it will serve as the electric sibling model to the firm's best-seller.


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The facelifted Volvo XC60 now starts from £49,240

That’s £3k more than before, though you do get a bigger screen and fancier upholstery choices

Volvo has unleashed a string of updates to its lineup, led by the facelifted XC60, confirmed to start at £49,240 for the mild-hybrid B5 in ‘Core’ trim. That’s a gain of about £3k over the previous entry point.

The extra outlay brings a new grille, different alloys and darker accents in sections like the rear taillights. Meanwhile, the interior gains a rejigged centre console and new upholstery choices, such as woven fabric and bio-friendly Nordico. Can’t forget the larger 11.2in infotainment touchscreen either, which has been blessed with Volvo’s latest-gen UX for quicker responses.

Next in line for some therapy is the big-boned, all-electric EX90 seven-seater. There’s a new powertrain option by way of a rear-driven 283bhp single motor, and combined with the 100kWh battery, you’ll get an estimated 380 miles of range between juice-ups. This new entry-level leviathan will start at £82,660 and comes with a healthy number of standard goods, including a 14.5in screen, panoramic sunroof and four-zone climate control.

At the other end of the shake-up sits the EX30. Volvo’s littlest car gained the ‘Cross Country’ treatment a couple of months back, spun off the 434bhp twin-motor ‘Performance’ version. We’ve now received word of a £47,060 starting price, and though it’s five grand more than the most basic dual-motor trim, you do get an awful number of modifications bolted on. Those include fatter bumpers, integrated skid plates and black wheel arch extensions. Oh, and increased ground clearance by 19mm and a more supple suspension setup to go with the all-wheel drivetrain.

 
Volvo XC60 overtakes iconic 240 to become best-selling model in history

The transformation of family transport is encapsulated in the remarkable journey of the Volvo XC60.

With over 2.7 million units sold since its debut in 2008, this mid-size SUV has surpassed the legendary Volvo 240, solidifying its position as the best-selling Volvo model of all time.

This shift not only marks a milestone for the brand but also underlines the changing preferences of consumers in the modern automotive landscape.

Initially launched as a European-exclusive model, the XC60 expanded its footprint by becoming the first Volvo to be manufactured in China, thus responding to local market demands.

The model’s appeal lies in its seamless blend of safety, premium driving experience, and impeccable quality—a combination lauded by drivers across the globe.

In 2018, its excellence was acknowledged when it was named World Car of the Year, a testament to its unmatched capabilities.

The latest generation of the XC60 introduces cutting-edge plug-in hybrid drivetrains, further enhancing its appeal. Notably, it was the best-selling plug-in hybrid in Europe last year, signaling a significant shift towards electrification among consumers.

As Volvo Cars moves towards a sustainable automotive future, the XC60 remains at the forefront, bridging the gap between traditional combustion engines and electric vehicles.

According to Susanne Hägglund, head of Global Offer at Volvo Cars, “Growing up in Sweden in the 1980s, the Volvo 240 was the iconic family car – you could spot one in almost every driveway.

Today the XC60 has taken over that position in two ways. Not only as the family favourite, but also becoming our all-time top-seller.”

 
Blimey, the XC60 is now Volvo’s best-selling car… ever

With the classic 240’s benchmark of 2.7 million now broken, how long before the XC60 hits the big three?

Move over, 240, ye old timer. The XC60 is now Volvo's best-selling model yet, with more than 2.7 million sold since its introduction in 2008. Surely a call for some bubbly.

In fact, the XC60 has reached the milestone in two fewer years than the old mobile warehouse, which was built between 1974 and 1993. That’s an average of over 158,000 units per year - or 435 each day - no doubt helped by the decision to branch the XC60 into the Chinese market in 2014, becoming the first globally sold Volvo to do so.

The XC60 was also given a facelift a few months back, bringing with it a bigger 11.2in infotainment screen and fancier upholstery choices as part of a reworked interior.

As for powertrains, the entry-level mild-hybrid ‘B5’ gets a 2.0-litre turbo-four and 48-volt battery. They combine for 247bhp and a 0-62mph time of 6.9s.


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Volvo confirms four new models for the South African market, and they’re not all electric

Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) is set to launch four key new models in the coming year, with the company confirming recently that the new ES90 Sedan was on the radar for local introduction, along with the EX30 Cross Country and updated versions of the XC60 and XC90 SUVs.

VCSA was at the centre of controversy earlier this year after the importer closed around half of its dealerships, essentially only leaving sales representation in the three major centres, and service outlets in more remote regions such as the Eastern Cape.

This, it said, was due to the company shifting its focus to an all-electric future.

However, while the new Volvo ES90 and EX30 Cross Country are fully electric, the updated XC60 and XC90 vehicles will offer a choice between mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid petrol power.

“Our focus is clear: we are committed to offering South African motorists more choice as they make the transition to electric driving,” said VCSA’s new managing director Grant Locke.

“These new vehicles, paired with our ongoing investment in our local operations and services, underline the fact that we are here to stay and grow.”

 
Updated Volvo XC60 in SA: Price & Specs

The facelifted Volvo XC60 has launched in South Africa, with the local arm of the Swedish automaker announcing pricing for the updated model.

Since the initial launch of the second-generation XC60 in South Africa in 2018, the premium midsize SUV has proven to be one of the Swedish marque’s most popular SUVs locally. Following the launch of the updated XC90 in October 2025, Volvo South Africa has now introduced the facelifted XC60 to our market.

Updated Volvo XC60 Price in SA

The refreshed Volvo XC60 lineup comprises four derivatives, available with the choice of mild-hybrid (T5) and plug-in hybrid (T8) powertrains. The XC60 is priced from R1 058 400 for the B5 mild-hybrid Core Bright model, while the Plus Dark B5 variant is priced from R1 116 300. The T8 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants start from R1 460 800 for the Plus Bright, with the flagship Ultra Dark priced from R1 500 700. Included in the price are a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan and a warranty of similar duration and distance.

XC60 B5 AWD Core Bright – R1 058 400
XC60 B5 AWD Plus Dark – R1 116 300
XC60 T8 AWD Plus Bright – R1 460 800
XC60 T8 AWD Ultra Dark – R1 500 700

 
Volvo XC60 Facelift (2025) Price & Specs

The Volvo XC60 facelift has launched in South Africa. Here’s a look at the changes, plus how much you can expect to pay for this premium family SUV.

The Volvo XC60 facelift has touched down in South Africa, positioned as the Swedish alternative to the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

Volvo South Africa are offering the facelifted XC60 with a choice of two powertrains and three trim levels across a four-model lineup.

Volvo XC60 facelift changes

On the exterior, the facelifted XC60 can be spotted with its new-look diagonal grille and customers have a choice of new wheel designs and colours. Inside, there are new-look trims with new materials and the wireless charging pad has been repositioned for improved ergonomics.

The Google-powered infotainment screen has been upgraded too and Volvo claims the facelifted XC60 cabin is an even quieter and more refined place to be.

How much does the Volvo XC60 facelift cost in South Africa?

The Volvo XC60 facelift is sold with a five-year/100 000 km warranty and a five-year/100 000 km service plan. The T8’s hybrid battery is covered for eight years/160 000 km, and five years of unlimited roadside assistance is included.

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

 
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