As the world’s thirst for luxury SUVs continues to grow, Volvo has redesigned its mid‑sized flagship, the XC60, for the 2026 model year. Model year (MY) 2026 provides a facelift that goes far beyond mere cosmetics: increased style, upgraded tech, and meticulous design modifications prepare the XC60 for its next chapter.
Global Debut & Strategic Production Plans
Volvo debuted the new XC60 in February 2025, rolling out an exterior and interior makeover throughout important worldwide regions. At the same time, Volvo is relocating manufacture of the XC60 destined for the U.S. to its Charleston, South Carolina factory beginning in late 2026. This move is meant to avoid hefty tariffs and regionalize production closer to demand.
Exterior Enhancements
The visual change is subtle yet striking. The XC60 sports a new diagonally slatted grille—sharing design DNA with Volvo’s flagship XC90—and updated air intakes in the front bumper. Darkened LED tail lights and a selection of new alloy wheel shapes improve modern attractiveness. Three unique paint hues—Forest Lake, Aurora Silver, and Mulberry Red—are offered, with the latter debuting on the XC60 internationally.
Interior & Tech Upgrades
Inside, the XC60 boasts Volvo’s newest interior style. The centerpiece is a new 11.2‑inch freestanding touchscreen based on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Cockpit Platform. This upgrade gives up to double the speed and tenfold quicker graphics than the departing system, with better pixel density, a revamped UX, and built‑in Google services like Maps, Assistant, and Play Store. According to early user reports, the infotainment update increases usability substantially, which has long been a sore point for prior Volvo systems.
Cabin materials also receive an upgrade: quilted Nordico upholstery and navy herringbone‑weave surfaces add sophistication and comfort. Practical refinements—like smarter storage, new cupholder layouts, increased wireless charging, air purification tech, and optional laminated glass and air suspension—round out the upgrades.
Powertrain: Familiar, but Effective
Volvo has confirmed no substantial alterations under the bonnet: Indian vehicles continue to use the 2.0‑litre turbo‑petrol mild‑hybrid engine, delivering around 247–250 hp and approximately 350–360 Nm torque, combined with an 8‑speed automatic and AWD. Internationally, Volvo keeps its plug‑in hybrid (T8 Recharge) option with 449 hp and up to 640 Nm, capable of roughly 82 km of EV-only range.
Indian Launch Schedule & Cost
For India, Volvo has stated the facelifted XC60 will be introduced on 1 August 2025, representing a crucial freshened upgrade in its local portfolio. Expect just minor variations from the worldwide version — although it’s still unclear whether all new colour options will be available locally. Pricing is projected to carry a minor premium over the current model, which starts about ₹70.75 lakh (ex‑showroom), implying launch prices could fall in the ₹73–74 lakh area.
Why This Update Matters
The XC60 remains Volvo’s best-selling model globally and one of the most significant premium SUVs in India. The enhancements—including more responsive software, cleaner interface, quietened cabin, and enhanced styling—help sustain competitiveness versus BMW X3, Mercedes‑Benz GLC, Audi Q5, Lexus NX, Jaguar F‑Pace, and others.
Shifting U.S. production to South Carolina demonstrates Volvo’s commitment to minimizing tariff pressures and aligning manufacturing footprint with market needs—a prudent step that should also assist streamline supply and dealer stock in North America by late 2026.
Volvo’s 2026 XC60 facelift is more than just a mid-cycle refresh—it provides tangible enhancements in areas that matter most to buyers: infotainment, comfort, and design. With the Indian debut slated for August 1, 2025, and minimal estimated price premium, it hopes to elevate Volvo’s position in the premium SUV category while maintaining loyal to its ethos of exquisite Scandinavian design and innovative safety and tech.