Here’s something that might surprise you: the Volvo XC60 has quietly become the Swedish automaker’s best-selling vehicle of all time. While everyone’s talking about the latest BMW X3 or Audi Q5, this understated luxury SUV has been winning over families who value substance over flash.
The 2026 model year brings some thoughtful updates that address the few complaints owners had, while keeping everything that made people fall in love with it in the first place. But should you actually consider one? Let’s dig into what real ownership looks like.
What’s Actually New for 2026 (Spoiler: It’s Not Much, and That’s Good)
Volvo took a “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach with the 2026 XC60. The biggest change you’ll notice is the new 11.2-inch touchscreen that replaces the previous 9.0-inch display. This isn’t just about size – the new screen is 21% sharper and operates twice as fast thanks to updated Qualcomm software.
Beyond the tech upgrade, you’ll find a refreshed front grille with intersecting lines (borrowed from the larger XC90), new wheel designs, and some gorgeous new color options including a stunning Mulberry purple. Inside, there’s now a wireless charging pad and redesigned cupholders – small touches that make daily life easier.
The real story? Volvo didn’t mess with the powertrain or the fundamental character of the vehicle. When you find a winning formula, sometimes the best move is to refine rather than reinvent.
Two Powertrains That Actually Make Sense
The B5: Perfect for Most Families
The standard B5 powertrain combines a 247-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. It’s not the most exciting setup on paper, but here’s what matters for real-world driving: it’s smooth, refined, and delivers around 26 mpg combined.
With all-wheel drive standard (because this is a Volvo, after all), the B5 will get you through whatever weather throws your way. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts so seamlessly you’ll forget it’s there – exactly what you want in a family hauler.
The T8: When You Want It All
Step up to the T8 plug-in hybrid, and you’re looking at a completely different animal. This setup combines a turbocharged and supercharged version of the same 2.0-liter engine with a 143-horsepower electric motor, delivering a combined 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque.
That’s enough to rocket from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds – faster than many sports cars. But here’s the clever part: you can also drive up to 35 miles on electric power alone, perfect for daily commutes or running errands around town. It’s like having a performance SUV and an eco-friendly commuter wrapped into one vehicle.
What It’s Actually Like to Live With
The Interior: Where Volvo Shines
Climbing into the XC60 feels like entering a Scandinavian living room – in the best possible way. The seats are supremely comfortable, wrapped in materials that feel premium without being ostentatious. Everything from the controls to the ambient lighting has been designed with human comfort in mind.
The back seats offer genuine space for adults, and the cargo area is practical enough for weekend trips or Costco runs. With the rear seats folded, you can fit surprisingly large items – one reviewer managed to squeeze in a 60-inch glass table.
Sound insulation is exceptional, with double-paned windows keeping road noise to a minimum. It’s the kind of cabin where you arrive at your destination feeling relaxed rather than frazzled.
On the Road: Comfort Over Thrills
If you’re expecting BMW X3-level sportiness, you’ll be disappointed. The XC60 prioritizes comfort and confidence over outright athleticism. The steering is light and responsive enough for daily driving, but it won’t set your heart racing on a winding road.
That said, the available air suspension can deliver a cloud-like ride quality that makes every journey pleasant. The chassis feels planted and secure, giving you confidence in various weather conditions without making you feel like you’re piloting a performance machine.
The Competition Reality Check
In a world dominated by the German trio (BMW X3, Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC), the XC60 offers something genuinely different. It’s not trying to be the sportiest or the most tech-forward. Instead, it focuses on being the most livable.
Where competitors might overwhelm you with options and complexity, the XC60 keeps things elegant and intuitive. The safety systems work seamlessly in the background, the interface is logical, and everything feels like it was designed by humans for humans.
Pricing: What You’ll Actually Pay
While Volvo hasn’t announced official 2026 pricing, expect the lineup to start around $48,000 for a base B5 Core model. Mid-level B5 Plus models should run about $53,000, with the top B5 Ultra around $58,000.
Add the T8 plug-in hybrid system, and you’re looking at $60,000 to $70,000 depending on trim level. The range-topping Polestar Engineered model will likely touch $77,000.
Compared to similarly equipped German competitors, these prices are competitive – sometimes even advantageous when you factor in Volvo’s generous warranty and included maintenance.
Should You Actually Buy One?
The 2026 Volvo XC60 isn’t for everyone. If you prioritize sporty handling or cutting-edge technology over everything else, look elsewhere. But if you want a luxury SUV that excels at the daily grind while maintaining a distinctive character, it deserves serious consideration.
This is a vehicle for people who appreciate thoughtful design, prioritize safety and comfort, and want something that stands apart from the crowd without shouting about it. In a segment full of vehicles trying to be everything to everyone, the XC60 succeeds by being really, really good at being itself.
The fact that it’s become Volvo’s best-seller suggests there are plenty of buyers who value this approach. Maybe it’s time you considered joining them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 2026 Volvo XC60 reliable? A: Volvo has significantly improved its reliability in recent years, and the XC60 benefits from mature powertrains and proven technology. The mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid systems have been refined over several model years. Plus, Volvo includes three years of scheduled maintenance, which helps ensure proper care during the critical early ownership period.
Q: How does the XC60 T8 plug-in hybrid work in real-world driving? A: The T8 system seamlessly blends electric and gasoline power. You can drive purely on electric power for up to 35 miles (perfect for daily commutes), or let the system automatically manage power delivery for optimal performance and efficiency. The transition between modes is smooth and barely noticeable. Charging takes about 2.5 hours on a 240V outlet.
Q: What’s the cargo space like compared to competitors? A: The XC60 offers competitive cargo space with 54-55 cubic feet behind the front seats when the rear seats are folded. It’s not the largest in class, but the space is well-shaped and practical. The square opening and low load floor make it easy to load larger items, and the build quality means everything feels solid and well-designed.