• Auto123 reviews the 2026 Volvo XC60.
The Volvo XC60 remains a cornerstone of the Swedish automaker’s lineup, recently surpassing the historic 240 as the brand’s best-selling model of all time. As a mid-size luxury crossover, it serves as the middle child between the smaller XC40 and the larger XC90.
For the 2026 model-year, Volvo has freshened it up with a number of updates to maintain the vehicle's relevance in a competitive Canadian market. Those updates focus primarily on technological refinement and subtle aesthetic shifts.
See also: 2026 Volvo XC60 T8 PHEV First Drive: Favourable Treatment
2026 Volvo XC60 - What’s New?
The 2026 refresh introduces several hardware and software upgrades. The most notable change is the new 11.2-inch infotainment screen, which replaces the previous 9-inch unit. This display features higher pixel density and updated computer hardware designed to hasten system responses and improve processing speeds.
Externally, the XC60 adopts a revised grille design featuring a cross pattern first seen on the larger XC90. The taillights have been subtly darkened, and new paint options (Mulberry Red, Aurora Silver, Forest Lake) have been added to the palette. Functional interior updates include redesigned cupholders and an improved wireless phone charging pad.
Design of the 2026 Volvo XC60
The XC60 adheres to the principles of Scandinavian minimalism, characterized by clean lines and a lack of aggressive "off-road" pretension. The exterior features the brand’s signature Thor’s Hammer LED daytime running lights, which swivel with steering input to improve visibility during cornering.
The vehicle measures 4,708 mm in length with a 2,865 mm wheelbase. Ground clearance is rated at 209 mm (8.2 inches), providing a traditional crossover stance. To protect against road debris, body-coloured cladding covers the lower door sections. High-trim versions, such as the Ultra, incorporate gloss-black accents and optional 21-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.
The interior
The cabin continues the minimalist theme, with light woods and bright leathers present for purposes of instilling a calm atmosphere. In higher trims, Nappa leather covers the dashboard and door panels, complemented by an Orrefors crystal gear shifter that illuminates at night.
The seating is designed for long-distance comfort, with front seats offering heating, ventilation and massage functions in the Ultra and Polestar Engineered versions. Rear passengers have access to four-zone climate control and pillar-mounted air vents.
Cargo capacity is measured at 613 litres with the rear seats upright, expanding to 1,543 litres when the rear bench is folded flat. The XC60 is designed for ease of loading with a flat floor and a no-lip landing, meaning there is no significant drop between the tailgate opening and the cargo floor.
Technology in the 2026 Volvo XC60
The 2026 XC60 features a built-in Google operating system, allowing for voice-activated commands via "Hey Google" for navigation, climate control and media. While the new 11.2-inch screen improves clarity, many physical controls have been integrated into the digital interface. The drive mode selector and home button are now haptic or menu-based rather than physical switches.
Available technology includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display. For audio, the Ultra trim features a 1,410-watt Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity system with 15 speakers, while the Plus trim gets a Harman Kardon premium system.
Powertrain of the 2026 Volvo XC60
The XC60 offers two distinct electrified powertrains. The entry-level B5 is a 2.0L 4-cylinder mild hybrid producing 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It reaches 100 km/h in around 7 seconds and offers a combined fuel economy rating of 9.0L/100 km.
Our tester was the T8 plug-in hybrid (PHEV), which combines a 2.0L turbocharged engine with a 143-hp electric motor for a total output of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. This configuration enables a 0–100 km/h sprint in 4.8 seconds. Its 18.8 kWh battery allows for an electric-only range of approximately 58 km under ideal conditions.
2026 Volvo XC60 versions and pricing for Canada
- - 2026 XC60 B5 Mild Hybrid (AWD) Core - $57,600
- - 2026 XC60 B5 Mild Hybrid (AWD) Plus - $62,700
- - 2026 XC60 B5 Mild Hybrid (AWD) Ultra - $68,850
- - 2026 XC60 B5 Mild Hybrid (AWD) Ultra Black Edition - $70,050
- - 2026 XC60 T8 Plug-in Hybrid (eAWD) Core - $64,950
- - 2026 XC60 T8 Plug-in Hybrid (eAWD) Plus - $77,500
- - 2026 XC60 T8 Plug-in Hybrid (eAWD) Ultra - $85,200
- - 2026 XC60 T8 Plug-in Hybrid (eAWD) Polestar Engineered - $92,450
Driving the 2026 Volvo XC60
The XC60 is tuned for comfort rather than athletic performance. The steering is weighted for ease of use, and the cabin remains quiet at highway speeds due to double-glazed windows. While the T8 powertrain provides significant acceleration, the vehicle exhibits noticeable body roll during high-speed cornering.
An available air suspension system automatically lowers the vehicle when parked to assist with entry and exit, rising again when driving or in off-road mode. Models without air suspension use a rear leaf spring setup, which can result in a firmer ride over medium-speed impacts. The Polestar Engineered trim gets manually adjustable Öhlins shock absorbers for drivers seeking a more controlled chassis.
Competitors of the 2026 Volvo XC60
- • Audi Q5
- • BMW X3 / X5
- • Genesis GV70
- • Lexus RX
- • Lincoln Nautilus
- • Mercedes-Benz GLC / GLE
The final word
The 2026 Volvo XC60 represents a stable, conservative choice in a market currently experiencing shifts in electric vehicle demand. By extending the life cycle of this second-generation platform, Volvo relies on a proven formula of safety and Scandinavian design. The infotainment system requires a learning curve and the ride leans toward the softer side. Still, the XC60 remains an attractive option for Canadian buyers prioritizing a relaxed interior environment, flexible powertrain options and a longstanding reputation for passenger safety.
Last note: A look at the pricing as you climb the trim lineup tells you there may be potential customers who head for certain competitors priced more aggressively.