Volvo XC60 Review: The Vertu VERDICT
“The key to the Volvo XC60's appeal has always been that it forges its own path in measuring up to its premium family SUV rivals. This means Volvo has adapted its cast-iron reputation for refinement, practicality, safety and quality into an accessible and thoughtfully designed SUV package. Better yet, the recent PHEV addition offers impressive performance and economy keeps the XC60 limber against tough competition.”
Video Review of the Volvo XC60
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Volvo XC60: The Key Features
- Current second-generation Volvo XC60 may have arrived back in 2017 but a thorough facelift and update in 2025 brought it right back up to date
- 2025 update introduced revised styling and an updated interior complete with Google-operated infotainment built-in
- Available with the choice of either 2.0-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine or a more potent plug-in hybrid (PHEV)
- Shares its architecture with the larger Volvo XC90, including its engines
- Recently surpassed a benchmark to become Volvo's best-selling car of all-time
Who is the Volvo XC60 Best Suited To?
- Professionals seeking a comfortable, refined SUV to cover longer distances in luxury
- Families who would benefit from the practical interior and state-of-the-art safety technology
- Those who want an alternative to 'flashier' German rivals without compromising on comfort
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Volvo XC60 Trim Levels & Equipment
Volvo XC60 Trims | Powertrain Options | Standard Equipment |
|---|---|---|
| All-wheel drive, air-conditioning, 11.2-inch central display, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, rear camera, parking sensors, rain sensing wipers, 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, power tailgate, hill start assist, stop/start technology, heated front seats, powered seat adjustment, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, Google built-in, wireless phone charging, LED headlights | |
| Air-purifier and remote cabin pre-cleaning, heated steering wheel, heated windscreen, 360-degree camera, blind spot information system, park assist front/rear/side, Pilot assist, 19-inch alloy wheels, gloss black exterior detailing, heated rear seats (in addition to Core) | |
| Fog lamps, full LED headlights, headlight clearing, 20-inch alloy wheels, tinted rear windows, leather upholstery, front seat ventilation (in addition to Plus) | |
| Active air suspension, 19-inch glossy alloy wheels (21/22-inch optional), panoramic roof, Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system (in addition to Plus Pro) |
Volvo XC60 Technical Specifications
Volvo XC60 Technical Specifications | 2.0-litre B5 MHEV | 2.0-litre T6 PHEV (18.8kWh) | 2.0-litre T8 PHEV (18.8kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
Type | Premium Family SUV | Premium Family SUV | Premium Family SUV |
Seats | 5 Seats | 5 Seats | 5 Seats |
Trims | Core, Plus, Plus Pro, Ultra | Core, Plus, Plus Pro | Ultra |
Powertrain | Turbocharged MHEV Petrol | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) |
Power | 247bhp | 330bhp | 400bhp |
0-62mph | 6.9secs | 5.7secs | 4.9secs |
Fuel Economy | 37.6mpg | 313.4mpg | 282.1mpg |
EV Range (WLTP) | N/A | 51-miles | 49-miles |
CO2 Emissions | 175g/km | 21g/km | 22g/km |
Boot Space | 483-litres | 483-litres | 483-litres |
Insurance Group | 34E - 37E | 40E - 41E | 42E |
EuroNCAP Safety Rating | 5-Stars | 5-Stars | 5-Stars |
What We Like About the Volvo XC60
- Desirable premium family SUV that stacks up as an excellent alternative to German-manufactured alternatives
- Plush interior - updated in 2025 - has a clearer central touchscreen and benefits from having Google built-in
- Consolidates Volvo's excellent reputation for comfort, refinement and build quality
- Powerful engine options - including PHEV - make the XC60 a strong motorway cruiser
- Practical interior, not least its sizeable 483-litre boot
- Frugal PHEV option delivers with up to 50-miles of electric only range
- A used Volvo XC60 also makes an excellent buying proposition
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Family SUVs To Also Consider...
BMW X3
The BMW X3 proves family SUVs can still be a hoot to drive thanks to its excellent dynamics that balance fine motorway refinement with plenty of involvement on twisty roads. Timeless styling and diverse engine range add to its plus points, while the X3 also feels like a premium - yet sporty - package through-and-through.
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Audi Q5
The popular Audi Q5 has recently undergone an update to bring its instantly-recognisable signature-Audi design up to date, while also making a huge step forward in terms of interior quality and useability. Like the X3, the Q5 leans towards the sportier side of driving dynamics, but remains refinened and composed on motorway journeys.
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Mazda CX-5
The all-new Mazda CX-5 sees the manufacturer blur the boundaries between mainstream Japanese marques and premium rivals with a fresh overhaul for its best-selling model. The latest generation builds on the strengths of its predecessor, namely its upmarket stylish looks, involving handling and vast interior space, while adding a new, more smart connected interior and recently introduced six-year warranty
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* Details correct at the time of publication (August 2026)
Review Published: August 2026
Updated: August 2026
- New Cars
- Volvo