Video Review: 2026 Volvo XC60

Connie Peters is an automotive video creator and journalist covering all types of cars and trucks for the past 10 years in suburban Vancouver. You can watch all of her  videos on her YouTube channel or find here on social media: Instagram.com/xoconniepeters, TikTok.com/@xoconniepeters, Facebook.com/xoconniepeters, Threads.net/@xoconniepeters

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A transcript, cleaned up by AI and edited by a staffer, is below.

[Image: Video Thumbnail]

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Transcript:

The Volvo XC60 is one of the brand’s best sellers and one of my all-time favorite vehicles. People often ask what my favorite cars are, and while it’s impossible to choose just one, I usually say that if I were spending my own money on a new vehicle, it would probably be a Lexus SUV or a Volvo SUV. The XC60 is a strong example of why.

This is the five-seat model. If you need a third row, you’ll want to step up to the XC90, which I also really like. Personally, I don’t need the extra space anymore, and the XC60 strikes a great balance. It’s quick, especially in this plug-in hybrid configuration, and offers strong electric range. It’s also beautifully designed inside and out, with an interior layout and sound systems that stand out. Overall, it feels somewhat underrated.

For 2026, the XC60 gets a new grille and a color called Forest Lake. It appears to shift between gray and green depending on the lighting. Paired with the blonde leather interior, the combination looks excellent. This example is the top-spec Ultra trim with the Dark Theme, which adds black exterior accents instead of chrome. The darker details work particularly well with this paint color.

Up front are Volvo’s signature “Thor’s Hammer” headlights, and this model includes headlamp washers, which are optional in the U.S. as part of the Winter Plus package. It also rides on optional 21-inch wheels. Inside, there are some design updates along with additional technology.

One of the standout qualities of the XC60 plug-in hybrid is how unexpectedly fast it is. The T8 powertrain pairs a turbocharged and supercharged inline four-cylinder engine with hybrid assistance, producing a combined 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. Volvo estimates a 0–60 mph time of just 4.5 seconds, which is sports-car quick for a family SUV.

Drive modes allow you to tailor the experience. Power mode delivers the most responsive performance, while Pure mode prioritizes all-electric driving. You can also select Charge mode to replenish the battery while driving.

Charging is straightforward. Using a standard household outlet (Level 1), it reaches a full charge overnight. The official estimate is about 53 km (35 miles) of electric range, but real-world driving has returned closer to 67 km. For drivers with shorter daily commutes, it’s possible to handle most weekday driving on electricity alone without installing a Level 2 charger or visiting public charging stations.

There’s also a “B” mode that increases regenerative braking, capturing energy during coasting and braking to help recharge the battery more quickly.

Comfort remains a strong suit. Volvo seats are supportive, the driving position is excellent, and the steering wheel design is particularly appealing. Adaptive cruise control works smoothly in traffic, and the power makes highway merging and passing effortless—qualities many drivers will appreciate in everyday situations like commuting or school runs.

The overall shape and size of the XC60 remain unchanged for 2026, but the clean body lines still give it a distinctive look. The tail lights make it instantly recognizable as a Volvo, and they are now neo-tinted. A large upper brake light and T8 badging complete the rear design.

The power liftgate opens to reveal a well-thought-out cargo area with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and a pass-through for longer items. There’s a 12-volt outlet, and this model features optional four-corner air suspension, allowing the vehicle to be raised or lowered from the cargo area.

For the driver, a large digital instrument cluster can be customized to display preferred information. The updated touchscreen is larger for 2026 and features Google built-in, giving access to apps, navigation, calendar integration, and more.

This model is equipped with the available Bowers & Wilkins sound system, an upgrade over the standard Harman Kardon setup. It delivers impressive clarity and depth and stands out even compared with premium audio systems from other luxury brands.

The front seats are heated and ventilated, and the steering wheel is heated as well. Dual-zone climate control is standard, and frequently used settings—including drive modes—are easily accessible through the main screen.

Other updates include an improved wireless charging pad, a crystal gear selector, attractive wood trim, and a high-quality 360-degree camera system that remains active at low speeds for added visibility.

Inside, the blonde Nappa leather gives the cabin a bright, airy feel. Lower trims offer synthetic leather or cloth upholstery, but this configuration leans heavily into luxury. Rear passengers benefit from heated outboard seats, two USB-C charging ports, and a fold-down armrest with cupholders. There is a noticeable center hump that limits middle-seat legroom somewhat, but overall passenger space remains good.

The panoramic sunroof further enhances the open feel, especially when paired with the light headliner and upholstery. Even details like the light-colored seat belts contribute to the cohesive design.

The Bowers & Wilkins system is a significant option, but one that feels worthwhile given its performance. Additional practical touches include rear vents, hooks for hanging items, seatback pockets, and LATCH anchors for two child seats.

At 5-foot-1, I find there’s plenty of room in the rear, reinforcing the XC60’s reputation as a comfortable and thoughtfully designed SUV.