Volvo's 2028 XC60 and XC90 Plug-in Hybrids Nearly Triple Electric Range With Larger Batteries
Volvo is refreshing its two most popular SUVs with substantially upgraded battery packs that more than double real-world electric driving capability, alongside new infotainment systems powered by Google's Gemini assistant.
Volvo's Gothenburg headquarters appears to be in the midst of a comprehensive model refresh cycle. Following yesterday's unveiling of an updated XC40, the automaker has now introduced revised versions of its two flagship SUVs: the XC60 and the three-row XC90. Though exterior styling refinements remain relatively understated, the redesigned plug-in hybrid powertrains represent a substantial leap forward, delivering more than double the real-world electric range of their predecessors.
The XC60 holds particular significance within Volvo's lineup, with cumulative global sales exceeding 2.7 million units by the conclusion of last year. The refreshed model incorporates visual updates to its signature "Thor's Hammer" headlights, which retain their distinctive daytime running light pattern while now incorporating matrix LED projectors. A redesigned front grille, refined bumpers, reshaped fenders, and updated body panels complete the exterior enhancements. Inside, customers can opt for a new ventilated leather interior, and both the XC60 and XC90 feature an 11.2-inch infotainment display running on Android Automotive OS with integrated Gemini voice control capabilities. Early assessments suggest the Gemini assistant delivers notably improved performance compared to its predecessor, which had experienced declining functionality over recent years.
The most consequential modification lies beneath the surface: a dramatically expanded lithium-ion battery pack. The original XC60 T8 plug-in hybrid, tested in 2018, carried a 10.4 kWh (net) battery enabling 17 miles (27 km) of electric-only driving. The first refresh, evaluated in 2023, increased capacity to 14.9 kWh (net) and extended range to 35 miles (56 km). The new generation XC60 T8 jumps to a 37.9 kWh (net) battery pack—41.2 kWh gross—delivering 78 miles (125 km) of EPA-rated electric range. Volvo calculates this capacity sufficient for three days of typical driving, noting that the median American XC60 owner drives 22 miles (35 km) round-trip daily. Combined with a full fuel tank, the vehicle achieves approximately 590 miles (949 km) of total range between refueling stops.
Manufacturing expansion represents another significant development. XC60 production will commence at Volvo's South Carolina facility alongside the existing Swedish production line. Given the American market's importance to XC60 sales and the current tariff environment's preference for domestic manufacturing, this expansion carries strategic weight.
The XC90 Gets Its Upgrade
The larger three-row XC90 receives less extensive styling revisions than its smaller siblings, having undergone updates relatively recently. Nevertheless, Volvo has equipped the XC90 with the same Gemini-powered infotainment system displayed on the 11.2-inch screen. The XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid gains the identical 37.9 kWh usable battery, providing the larger SUV with 73 miles (117 km) of all-electric driving range.
The XC60 is our bestselling model of all time, while the XC90 marked the beginning of our premium journey. Now, as long-range plug-in hybrids, they build on those legacies and, together with the all-electric EX60, give us our strongest-ever electrified offering in the mid-size SUV segment. This means a path to full electrification for every customer.
Håkan Samuelsson, president & CEO at Volvo Cars