Volvo is expanding the electric range of its upcoming XC60 and XC90 plug-in hybrid models, making them more practical for daily use. The updated XC60 PHEV will now travel 78 miles on a single charge, up from 35 miles in the current model. Volvo says the 78-mile XC60 and 73-mile XC90 figures are preliminary and based on EPA testing standards. That range exceeds the EPA rating of the original Nissan Leaf, which was rated at 73 miles.
The larger XC90 PHEV’s all-electric range is now 73 miles, a significant jump from its current 32-mile range, according to insideevs.com. Both models will continue to offer the same 455 horsepower and all-wheel drive system, according to a report from Engadget. The battery packs have been moved from the center tunnel to the floor, which increases electric range but slightly reduces second-row legroom in the XC60, autoguide.com reported. Both long-range PHEVs use a 41.2-kWh battery pack with 37.9 kWh of usable capacity.
Despite the larger battery, charging time remains under six hours on a Level 2 charger. The XC60 PHEV will also feature updated safety systems including improved radar sensors and upgraded cameras. These upgrades include a new lane-change assist and a 3D look-around feature for the vehicle’s camera system.
The vehicles will also get updated infotainment software powered by Google with Gemini AI. Volvo’s CEO said the company remains committed to electric vehicles but is also focusing on plug-in hybrids. The updated XC60 and XC90 are designed to meet the needs of drivers who want more electric range without fully switching to all-electric models. Volvo CEO Håkan Samuelsson said the vehicles provide customers with another path toward full electrification.
The new XC60 also includes a redesigned front end with updated headlights and grille elements. The XC90 will feature a new badge on the rear indicating its long-range capabilities. Volvo plans to offer both plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid versions of the XC60 and XC90. Reuters reported that both SUVs will remain available with mild-hybrid powertrains.
The mild hybrid XC60 will have 247 horsepower and an EPA rating of 26 MPG combined. The XC90 B5 model will also be available with 247 horsepower, and a B6 version with 295 horsepower. Volvo has also updated the XC60 cabin design with leather seats and ambient lighting features. The XC60 also gets a redesigned dashboard and door panels along with available Cardamom ventilated Nappa leather.
The vehicles will retain familiar features like Bowers & Wilkins sound systems and Orrefors crystal shifters. Volvo’s updated plug-in hybrid lineup is expected to arrive at dealerships in 2027. The Verge reported that production is scheduled to begin in late fall 2026 and customer deliveries are expected in early 2027. The company has not yet revealed pricing details for the new T8 models in North America.
Current models start at $62,545 for the XC60 and $77,595 for the XC90. These upgrades reflect Volvo’s strategy to offer more flexibility in its electrification path. The company’s plug-in hybrid models are now among the leaders in all-electric range for luxury SUVs. Volvo’s current U.S. website confirms those starting prices for the outgoing plug-in hybrid models.
Volvo says the long-range plug-in hybrids are a key part of its bridge to a fully electric future. The company’s approach balances the benefits of electric driving with the convenience of traditional gas engines. Volvo’s updated PHEVs are expected to appeal to drivers who want more electric capability without sacrificing practicality.
The move also supports Volvo’s broader strategy to provide a full range of electrified options for its customers. With these improvements, Volvo says the XC60 and XC90 will offer the longest electric range of any plug-in hybrids available in the American market
IMAGE: Headquarters of Volvo Car Corporation in Torslanda, Göteborg (Gothenburg) built in the late 1960s. Photo: Mangan02 / Wikimedia, taken 2009-09-06, CC BY-SA 3.0