Volvo’s mid-size XC60 has sold more than 2.7 million units worldwide, surpassing the classic 240 estate to become the automaker’s all-time best-selling model. Since its 2008 debut, the XC60 has drawn buyers with its emphasis on safety, build quality and premium comfort. Originally built solely in Europe, it later became the first Volvo model assembled also in China to support local demand. In 2018 the XC60 was named World Car of the Year.
The current generation introduced plug-in hybrid drivetrains to a broader audience and led European plug-in hybrid sales last year. For 2026 the XC60 has received a significant refresh, featuring updated exterior styling, a more intuitive user interface, enhanced cabin comfort and a faster infotainment system.
Safety remains central to Volvo’s appeal. The original 240, produced from 1974 to 1993, set early benchmarks with front and rear crumple zones, side-impact protection and the first child booster cushion innovation. The XC60 has continued the legacy with City Safety, a low-speed automatic emergency braking system standard since launch, and Oncoming Lane Mitigation, which debuted in 2017 to steer drivers back into their lane if they drift toward oncoming traffic.
The refreshed XC60 also bridges Volvo’s transition to full electrification. While offering pure-electric driving in daily use, it retains a combustion engine for longer trips. Volvo data show that drivers of its latest plug-in hybrids travel about half their distance on electric power alone.
