Volvo has dramatically increased the electric-only range of its XC60 and XC90 plug-in hybrid SUVs, with a new powertrain allowing the XC60 to travel up to 200km without using a drop of petrol. The seven-seat XC90 can cover approximately 159km in electric mode, meaning both updated models offer around two-and-a-half times the EV range of their predecessors.

The improvement is primarily down to a substantially larger 41.2kWh battery. That’s more than double the capacity of the previous pack and almost as large as the units found on some entry-level BEVs. Despite the huge increase in capacity, Volvo says the new battery doesn’t reduce luggage space because it is positioned beneath the floor, which also lowers the centre of gravity and imprives handling.

Volvo XC90-style SUV in metallic grey parked in a photography studio, front grille visible.
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A complete charge from a home wall box takes a claimed four hours, although neither model offers DC rapid charging. Total driving range also takes a significant step forward. Combining a full battery with a tank of petrol gives the XC60 a claimed range of approximately 1240km, while the XC90 can cover more than 1090km.

The battery supplies a more powerful electric motor producing 132kW and 390Nm, working alongside a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. The XC60 will be offered with a 262kW T6 long-range plug-in hybrid powertrain, while the more potent 340kW T8 system will be available in both SUVs.

Despite weighing as much as 2.5 tonnes, the T8-powered XC90 can accelerate from 0–100km/h in 5.2 seconds. The XC60 cuts that to as little as 4.8 seconds.

Volvo says the objective was to dramatically increase electric capability without fundamentally changing the way its SUVs drive. Mild-hybrid B5 petrol variants will also continue for buyers who don’t want to regularly recharge, with all versions featuring an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

The powertrain overhaul coincides with another update for the XC60. Its redesigned front end incorporates a new bonnet, guards, bumper and grille, accompanied by a sharper interpretation of Volvo’s signature Thor’s Hammer headlights.

Volvo car interior with a tall touchscreen navigation screen, steering wheel, and wood trim dashboard
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Volvo’s changes continue at the rear with revised taillights, tailgate and bumper, while new alloy wheels include an aerodynamically optimised 20-inch design. Inside, an 11.2-inch portrait touchscreen runs Volvo’s latest interface and incorporates Google’s Gemini AI assistant. The dashboard, instrument panel and door trims have also been redesigned, while new materials and ambient lighting aim to lift the cabin presentation.

Upgraded cameras, radars and sensors bring improvements to automatic emergency braking and other driver-assistance systems, along with features including lane-change assistance and a 360-degree camera. The XC90 misses out on the XC60’s extensive styling changes but gains the new powertrain and Gemini technology.

Australian pricing, specifications and arrival timing for the upgraded XC60 and XC90 have yet to be announced.