Evolution of Volvo XC60

Volvo XC60 2008-2013

The first Volvo XC60 was unveiled in 2008 at the Geneva Motor Show. However, sales of this model took place in late 2008 in Europe and in early 2009 in North America, sold as a 2010 model, making it the best-selling Volvo car of 2009.

The Volvo XC60 was built on the Volvo P3 platform, but borrowed technology from Land Rover Freelander in 2007. At the time, both Land Rover and Volvo were owned by Ford, but CUV engineering and tuning was done by Volvo, and off-road capabilities were developed by Land Rover.

The XC60 was best known for its safety features. However, one of the most interesting features was the new City safety technology, a driver assistance system that, with the help of built-in sensors, the automatic brake system if it detects an obstacle on the road.

In 2010 it received an R-Design version of the XC60, which is bolder and sportier, a larger color palette available, a stiffer chassis and damping, and some interior and exterior design changes.

Volvo XC60 Facelift 2014-2017

In 2014, Volvo launched an updated version of the XC60, coming with a restyled exterior and interior design. At the exterior, the grille and headlights have been modified and some minor changes have been made to the exhaust and taillights. Inside, Volvo has included new dashboard materials and trim, and introduced a 7-inch touchscreen.

Volvo XC60 2018-2021

Volvo unveiled the second generation XC60 at the Geneva Motor Show in 2017. The new model was launched in 2018 and has been completely redesigned. The Volvo XC60 came in diesel, petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. Therefore, this model was based on a new Volvo SPA platform used on the Volvo 90 series. It was also the first XC60 model to be designed and built by Volvo Geeely, the Chinese carmaker that bought Volvo from Ford in 2010.

In terms of design, Volvo kept the “Thor’s Hammer” daylight inside the headlights and the large chrome grille, and the back was inspired by the hatchback segment. Inside, Volvo used recycled materials, but the finishes used on the dashboard, doors or upholstery were of the highest quality, offering a premium look.

Volvo XC60 2022-Present

In 2021, Volvo launched the XC60 Facelift, which seems smarter than ever. It comes equipped with Android-based multimedia system, Google applications and allows multiple connections.

Again, Volvo comes with safety improvements, with the new Volvo XC60 facelift being equipped with a modern and modular package of support systems. On the design side, the SUV received a new grille, redesigned bars and new wheels.

The Volvo XC60 was the Scandinavian manufacturer’s best-selling SUV. Globally, more than 1.68 million units have been sold since 2009, and by the end of 2020. In 2018, the Volvo XC60 won the title of Car of the Year in the world.