Volvo Cars has unveiled new long-range plug-in hybrid versions of the XC60 and XC90, bringing significantly increased electric driving ranges to two of the brand’s most popular SUVs. The updated XC60 plug-in hybrid can travel up to 200 kilometres on electric power, while the larger seven-seat XC90 offers up to 160 kilometres. According to Volvo, that represents more than two and a half times the electric range of the existing plug-in hybrid versions. The improvement comes courtesy of a new higher-capacity battery integrated into the floor, together with a more powerful electric motor. A petrol engine remains on hand for longer journeys, giving both models the flexibility traditionally associated with plug-in hybrid powertrains.
“The XC60 is our best-selling model of all time, while the XC90 marked the beginning of our premium journey,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and CEO of Volvo Cars. “Now, as long-range plug-in hybrids, they build on those legacies and, together with the all-electric EX60, give us our strongest-ever electrified offering in the mid-size SUV segment.”
The XC60 receives the more substantial makeover of the two models. Volvo has redesigned the front and rear, introducing a new grille, bumper, bonnet, front wings and wheel designs. Revised Thor’s Hammer Matrix LED headlights feature up front, while changes to the tailgate, rear lights and bumper give the XC60 a broader appearance from behind. Inside, there is a redesigned dashboard and door panels, new trim options and an 11.2-inch touchscreen running Volvo’s latest infotainment system. Google Gemini is also integrated, allowing occupants to use natural voice commands for functions including journey planning and messaging.
Safety technology has also been upgraded, with the XC60 gaining an improved suite of cameras, radars and sensors supporting features including automatic emergency braking and steering, lane change assistance and a 360-degree camera with 3D view. The XC90 builds on its more recent design and technology updates while retaining its seven-seat layout. It too gains the new Google Gemini functionality, while Volvo continues to offer features including its optional Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system. Volvo sees its longer-range plug-in hybrids as an important stepping stone towards an increasingly electric line-up, providing significantly more usable EV range while retaining a petrol engine for longer journeys. Irish order books for the new XC60 and XC90, including Black Edition versions, will open later this month, with production scheduled to begin later this autumn.
