Volvo has announced significant upgrades to the plug-in hybrid versions of its XC60 and XC90 SUVs, focusing on larger battery packs to increase electric driving range. The XC60 T8 now features a 41.2 kWh gross battery with 37.9 kWh usable capacity and a preliminary electric-range estimate of 78 miles under the EPA test cycle. This electric range is enough for about three days of typical driving for the median U.S. Volvo driver, which the company says covers about 22 miles round-trip. With a full charge and a tank of gas, the XC60 T8 can travel up to 590 miles before needing a refill. Production of the updated XC60 will begin at Volvo’s South Carolina plant in addition to its Swedish production line. The US market is a major focus for Volvo, and local production helps avoid tariffs that might otherwise increase costs.
The XC90 also receives similar upgrades, though it has not undergone the same styling changes as the smaller models, according to Ars Technica. It now uses the same 37.9 kWh usable battery as the XC60, giving it a preliminary electric-range estimate of 73 miles under the EPA test cycle. The company’s president and CEO, Håkan Samuelsson, said the XC60 is their best-selling model ever, while the XC90 marks the start of their premium journey. He added that these plug-in hybrids build on those legacies and are part of Volvo’s strongest lineup yet in the mid-size SUV category.
Both models use a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine combined with electric motors, similar to previous versions, according to a report from Engadget. However, the new setup includes a 41.2 kWh gross battery pack integrated into the floor. The XC60 now has 37.9 kWh of usable battery capacity, which increases its electric range from 35 miles to 78 miles. The XC90 also benefits from the same powertrain upgrade and can travel 73 miles on electric power alone. Together with a gas tank, the XC90 can cover up to 560 miles in total range. These improvements make both SUVs more practical for daily use, especially for commuters who might not always plug in. The XC60 T8 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, while the XC90 T8 takes about 4.9 seconds.
Volvo still offers mild hybrid versions of both SUVs for those who prefer not to use a plug-in system. The XC60 B5 model has a mild hybrid setup producing 247 horsepower and achieving 26 MPG combined in fuel economy. The XC90 also includes the B5 mild hybrid option, as well as a faster B6 version with 295 horsepower.
In addition to powertrain upgrades, Volvo has introduced new safety and driver-assistance features in the XC60. An extra radar sensor in the front helps detect obstacles ahead, while upgraded cameras provide a full 360-degree view around the vehicle. A new processor handles all incoming data and enables features like automatic lane-change assistance. Over-the-air updates will allow for future feature additions thanks to this upgraded system. The XC60 also gains automatic emergency steering and braking along with a warning designed to help prevent passengers from opening a door into the path of a cyclist.
Both models include an 11.2-inch touchscreen display. The interface remains Google-powered but now includes support for Gemini AI, allowing conversations to continue while driving. Volvo has kept physical controls like the volume knob, maintaining a balance between digital and tactile interfaces.
The XC60’s exterior design includes subtle updates such as new active-matrix LED headlights that dim automatically. The rear of the vehicle has also been revised with a new liftgate, bumper, and taillights. The XC60’s overall look is understated, focusing on simplicity in line with Volvo’s Scandinavian design philosophy.
The XC90 has fewer visual changes, with only a new badge at the rear indicating its long-range plug-in hybrid capabilities. It also features the 11.2-inch display and integration of Gemini AI into its infotainment system. The XC90 had received a larger styling and interior update earlier, which is why Volvo made fewer visual changes this time.
The net result is a pair of SUVs that look familiar but now offer a more appealing balance between traditional combustion engines and full electrification. Volvo also offers fully electric versions like the EX60 and EX90 for those who want to go all-in on electric driving. The exact price increases for these upgrades have not yet been announced. Currently, the 2026 XC60 T8 starts at $62,545, while the XC90 T8 is priced at $77,595. Volvo says production of the new long-range models will begin later in 2026, with U.S. customer deliveries expected in early 2027.