2027 Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid: Everything You Need to Know
The Volvo XC60 has been one of Ireland’s most popular premium SUVs for years, but this latest update could be its most significant yet.
While the basic XC60 formula remains the same – comfort, safety and Scandinavian design – Volvo has made a major change to its plug-in hybrid system.
The new long-range XC60 gets a 41.2kWh battery and up to 200km of claimed electric range.
That’s a dramatic increase over the previous model’s approximately 79km and could make the XC60 a much more convincing plug-in hybrid for Irish buyers.
Watch my full video for a closer look at the new Volvo XC60, and everything you need to know:
What is new on the 2027 Volvo XC60?
The biggest change is the new long-range plug-in hybrid system, but Volvo has also updated the exterior, interior and safety technology.
There’s a redesigned front end with new grille design, bonnet, wings, matrix LED headlights and updated Thor’s hammer light signature. The back has also been updated with a new light design and smoother tailgate. There are also new 20- and 21-inch alloy wheel designs.
Inside there’s an updated dashboard with new materials and lighting. Since the 2025 update, the XC60 has had the brand’s latest 11.2-inch touchscreen with Google Gemini.
What is the electric range?
The previous XC60 plug-in hybrid had an 18.8kWh battery and around 79km of official electric range.
The new model uses a 41.2kWh battery integrated into the floor and more powerful electric motors.
Volvo quotes up to:
XC60 T6 AWD: 200km electric range
XC60 T8 AWD: 189km electric range
That’s more than double the previous model’s range and potentially enough for many owners to complete most everyday driving entirely on electric power.
How does it compare with the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLC?
Electric range is where the new XC60 has a major advantage. The BMW X3 plug-in hybrid offers around 90km of electric range, while the Audi Q5 is around the 100km mark. Mercedes-Benz has also pushed plug-in hybrid range significantly with the latest GLC, offering up to around 129km.
With up to 200km claimed, the XC60 is now class-leading.
What engine does the XC60 PHEV use?
Both the T6 and T8 use a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine combined with the battery and electric motor.
What’s the interior like?
The XC60 retains Volvo’s calm, minimalist Scandinavian interior.
There’s a redesigned dashboard and door panels, new wood trim and premium materials, including Cardamom ventilated Nappa leather on higher-spec versions.
The 11.2-inch infotainment screen introduced with the previous update remains, with Google’s software and Gemini providing more natural voice interaction.
The system can help with navigation, finding places to stop and managing messages while you’re driving.
Is the XC60 practical?
The plug-in hybrid XC60 has 468 litres of boot space, putting it broadly in line with its main premium SUV competitors.
There’s also good space for rear passengers, although the transmission tunnel makes the middle rear seat less practical.
If you need seven seats or substantially more interior space, the larger XC90 PHEV has also been updated with a bigger battery and more EV range (160km up from 69km).
What safety technology does it have?
Safety remains a major part of the XC60’s appeal. The latest model gets upgraded cameras, radar and other sensors, along with active safety systems designed to warn the driver and intervene where necessary. Features include automatic emergency steering, lane-change assist and a new 3D 360-degree camera. There’s also technology designed to warn occupants about approaching cyclists before opening a door.
How much will the 2027 Volvo XC60 cost in Ireland?
This is the detail we’re still waiting to find out. The current XC60 starts at around €67,145, but the price of the new long-range model will be crucial.
The XC60 now has the electric range to compete very strongly with its premium PHEV rivals. The question is whether Volvo can deliver that extra capability without pushing the price too far above the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.
_______________
Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year