The Volvo XC60 receives a much-needed update

The Volvo XC60 receives a much-needed update

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Following its introduction to the South African SUV fold in 2018, the Volvo XC60 has become the brand’s best-selling model after more than 1.5 million models found homes across the globe.

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Roughly six years later, the SUV is getting a much-needed nip and tuck to keep it fresh in the ever more competitive small SUV segment. The XC60 hasn't received a significant update since it was first released, and to be honest, it was ready for one. Improvements introduced in 2021, which added new wheels, colours, and trim options, helped prolong its relevancy, but unfortunately, cosmetic updates can only carry it so far.

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On the outside, the refreshed XC60 still maintains its chic stance, yet it adds a new air intake that includes the brand’s iconic iron mark, darker rear lights, and new wheel options. Buyers also get a couple of fresh paint choices: Forest Lake, Aurora Silver, and for the first time, Mulberry Red.

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Like the exterior, the inside was starting to show visible signs of ageing, especially when comparing it with the likes of the Lexus NX. The good thing, though, is that Volvo seems to have addressed the issue with the introduction of a mixture of interior decors, inlays, and premium materials such as Quilted Nordico and Navy Herringbone Weave. Additionally, the Swedish marque has also added what it calls smart storage, new cupholders, and an improved wireless phone charger, as well as a bigger load compartment.

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The biggest change, however, is the new 11.2-inch freestanding infotainment screen, packed with built-in Google services. Volvo claims it’s twice as fast and notably more responsive than the previous system. As for audio, the premium Bowers & Wilkins setup remains, now with a fresh speaker mesh design.

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Volvo hasn’t confirmed any powertrain updates, but the current lineup consists of mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, which are likely to continue. The brand has been making waves with its EV strategy, recently clarifying that it won’t go fully electric by 2030 as initially planned. Instead, it aims for 90-100% of global sales to come from electrified vehicles, which means the XC60 could feature a mixture of full EVs and plug-in hybrid variants.

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We expect the new XC60 to hit South African roads sometime in 2026, and it’ll be interesting to see how it stacks up against its SUV rivals.

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