The Volvo XC60 continues to be the company’s breadwinner, as it finished 2024 as Volvo’s best-selling model globally, and a close second in the U.S. However, competition is mounting with the arrival of the all-new BMW X3, the all-new Audi Q5, and the impending refreshes for the Mercedes GLC, and the Lexus RX.
For the upcoming model year, Volvo has introduced upgrades aimed at bettering user experience, comfort, and technology. But do these changes make it worth waiting for? Here’s what’s new in the refreshed XC60 Hybrid, which is expected to reach the U.S. later year as a 2025.5 or 2026 model.
1. Bigger & More Responsive 11.2-inch Touchscreen
Like many of you, I found the response times of the neatly integrated 9-inch infotainment system in the XC60 Hybrid could be better. For 2026, Volvo has addressed this with a larger, 11.2-inch touchscreen which pops out of the dashboard.
The new unit improves pixel density by 21%, making interactions smoother. Volvo says that the next-generation Snapdragon Cockpit Platform makes it twice as fast as before, finally delivering the quick and seamless experience I was hoping for.
2. New Grille, Wheels & Colors
When I reviewed the XC60 Hybrid last year, I felt its design still carried strong Scandinavian appeal but was starting to show its age. For the new mode year, Volvo has adopted the XC90‘s grille, which resembles a pinstriped business suit. The style generally looks better in reality than in photos.
You have to squint to notice the darker tail lights. The new colors Forest Lake and Aurora Silver are sure to give buyers fresh personalization options. I also like the new Y-shaped wheel spoke pattern with alternating gloss black and machined silver surfaces. It sharpens up the SUV’s profile.
Disappointingly, Volvo has not changed the bumpers or the body panels, so XC60 buyers looking for a fresh shape or design will have to wait for the next-generation model, which could take about three years.
3. New Wireless Charger & Extra Sound Insulation
Volvo hasn’t specified what improvements have been made to the wireless charger, though we don’t expect it to be a fast wireless charger. Likewise, the company has also reworked the cupholders. Lastly, Volvo has improved cabin insulation for a quieter experience, making highway drives more relaxing.
4. Two Upholstery Options From The XC90
What stood out to me when I stepped into the previous model year XC60 Hybrid was its calming interior. While I didn’t have complaints with the materials, some buyers wished for more premium touches. Volvo has delivered by offering Quilted Nordico and Navy Herringbone Weave which are also available globally in the XC90 facelift.
5. Enhanced Bowers & Wilkins Audio
I’ve never had complaints about the Bowers & Wilkins system offered in Volvo’s 60 and 90 Series models. The British audio experts have tried improving it in the incoming XC60 Hybrid with a redesigned speaker mesh for clearer acoustics.
Final Thoughts
The new Volvo XC60 Hybrid is not a facelift, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing for many buyers. The midsize SUV remains one of Volvo’s best-sellers in the U.S., and the company is playing it safe with incremental updates instead of a drastic overhaul.
However, for those craving a more radical change, the all-electric Volvo EX60 arrives next year with a completely new exterior, user interface, and tech, offering a fresh alternative to the familiar XC60 formula.
Featured image: Volvo Cars Global Newsroom
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
