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1. Volvo XC60 Facelift
Volvo XC60 Facelift The XC60 originally debuted in 2017 and received a first facelift in 2021. Now, Volvo has rolled out its second mid-cycle update—branded the 2025 (international) / 2026 (some markets) facelift—to keep the model visually and technically current without a full redesign. Available in global markets and slated for India launch on August 1, 2025
2. Exterior Styling Updates
Front Fascia & Grille
The XC60 receives a fresh front grille echoing the updated XC90 design: diagonal slats replace the previous vertical bars, offering a sharper aesthetic. New air intake designs in the bumper enhance both form and function
Lighting & Wheels
Updated LED headlamps remain shaped like Volvo’s signature “Thor’s Hammer,” but with refined detailing. At the rear, taillight clusters are now darker/tinted to elevate the premium look. New alloy-wheel designs add fresh appeal to the side profile (–).
Colour Palette
Three new paint options are introduced globally: Forest Lake, Aurora Silver, and Mulberry Red, enhancing personalization choices
Overall Design Philosophy
While the silhouette and overall proportions remain largely unchanged, these styling tweaks bring the XC60 into visual alignment with Volvo’s current design language, without compromising its recognizable identity
3. Interior & Cabin Enhancements
Dashboard & Trim
The familiar minimalist Scandinavian dashboard layout continues, but has been refreshed with premium materials such as Quilted Nordico upholstery and Navy Herringbone Weave trim inserts for a more luxurious ambience
Infotainment & UX
A major highlight is the new vertically mounted 11.2‑inch freestanding infotainment touchscreen, a substantial upgrade over the previous 9-inch system. The display offers 21% higher pixel density, much smoother graphics, and faster responsiveness—aided by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Cockpit Platform
The new user interface integrates Google built-in services, including Maps, Assistant, and Play Store access, enabling over‑the‑air (OTA) updates and smoother app experiences
The infotainment system is claimed to be twice as fast overall, and 10× faster in graphics rendering than its predecessor
Cabin Comfort & Functionality
Upgrades include refined speaker mesh designs, improved wireless charging pads, redesigned cupholders, and a quieter cabin aided by laminated windows and better sound insulation
Optional features include air purification systems, panoramic sunroof, four‑zone climate control, and massage‑function heated & ventilated seats, especially in higher trims
4. Performance & Powertrain Options
Engine Lineup (unchanged)
- B5 Mild Hybrid: 2.0‑litre turbocharged petrol paired with a 48‑volt mild‑hybrid system. Produces approximately 247–250 hp and 350–360 Nm torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic with AWD
- T8 Plug‑in Hybrid (PHEV): Combines turbo & supercharged 2.0‑litre petrol with a substantial electric motor, delivering around 449–455 hp, 640 Nm, and up to 82 km (≈51 mi) of electric-only range, depending on the market configuration
In India, only the B5 mild‑hybrid variant (247 hp / 360 Nm, AWD) is currently expected; PHEV may come later if introduced internationally
Driving & Efficiency
The mild hybrid offers efficient fuel economy (~23/30/26 MPG US), while the plug‑in variant can sprint from 0‑60 mph in about 4.5 seconds (under 5 seconds globally) in high‑power markets
5. Trim Levels & Features Overview
Standard & Core Trims
The base Core (or entry) trim includes the mild‑hybrid B5 engine, cloth or leather‑ette upholstery, two‑zone climate control, a 10–12 speaker stereo, panoramic roof, basic ADAS suite, and the new 11.2″ touchscreen system
Plus Trim
Adds 360° camera, adaptive cruise control with Pilot Assist, upgraded materials, and convenience features like ventilated seats and better audio integration
Ultra / Ultimate Trim
Ultra replaces the former “Ultimate” badge and includes Nappa leather, ventilated & heated seats with massage, Head‑Up Display (HUD), larger wheels (up to 20″ or 21″ in Polestar spec), high‑end audio (Bowers & Wilkins), and ambient lighting enhancements
Polestar Engineered PHEV
Available only with plug‑in hybrid powertrain, this high-performance version comes with stiffer sports suspension, 21″ wheels, upgraded brakes, and more dynamic tuning while offering electric‑heavy driving capability
6. Tech & Connectivity
- OTA Update Schedule: Volvo plans to roll out the upgraded infotainment to approximately 2.5 million existing vehicles (2020 onward) via over‑the‑air software update in 2025, including older XC60s
- Wireless Apple CarPlay: Early reports indicate wireless CarPlay support may arrive via OTA—though some users say it’s not yet universally enabled
- Performance Feedback: Chatter among owners praises speed improvements. The new infotainment… more than twice as fast… ten times faster graphics generation
7. Pricing & India Market Launch
Global & US Market
While official global pricing is evolving, early figures from US showrooms and Australian markets report only minor price increases relative to the outgoing model—despite added tech and features
India Launch
Volvo India will introduce the XC60 facelift on 1 August 2025, with initial powertrain choice expected to be the B5 mild‑hybrid only. The refreshed model is anticipated to carry a premium of ₹2–3 lakh over the current ₹70.75 lakh (ex‑showroom) price range
8. Key Details
| Aspect | New / Key Details |
|---|---|
| Exterior | Diagonal grille, smoked taillights, new alloys & colours (Forest Lake, etc.) |
| Infotainment | 11.2″ touchscreen, Snapdragon chipset, faster graphics, Google built-in, OTA |
| Interior Materials | Quilted Nordico, Navy Herringbone, refined speaker meshes, ambient lighting |
| ENA | Advanced driver assistance & connectivity including Pilot Assist |
| Comfort Features | Air suspension, massage seats, air purifier, 4‑zone climate, premium audio |
| Powertrains | B5 mild‑hybrid (247–250 hp), T8 PHEV (449–455 hp; ~82 km EV range globally) |
| Trims | Core → Plus → Ultra → Polestar Engineered |
| Market Timing India | Launch: 1 August 2025; price ~₹2–3 L premium |
9. Verdict: Is This Facelift Worth It?
- Design tweaks smartly align the XC60 with modern Volvo styling without alienating fans of the original.
- Tech gets a major bump: big screen, snappy UI, Google integration, OTA updates—even older owners benefit.
- Luxury enhancements (premium materials, air purification, ambient lighting, massage seats) bring near-sedan refinement.
- Powertrains remain strong: efficient mild-hybrid and class-leading PHEV make for compelling choice.
- Minimal downsides: limited upheaval means no steep price hike, and fans get continuity.
For those considering XC60 in India, the facelift adds features that notably elevate luxury, tech, and comfort—making it an appealing upgrade compared to rivals like BMW X3, Audi Q5, Lex× NX, and Mercedes GLC
10. What To Expect for Later Updates
As Volvo transitions to its SPA Evo / SPA3 architecture, expect future models—especially EV variants like EX60—to benefit from further advancements in EV tech, performance, and interior UX. While the XC60 facelift sits on existing SPA2 underpinnings, the linkage to Volvo’s broader EV roadmap is clear.
Final Thoughts
The 2025/2026 Volvo XC60 facelift is a thoughtful evolution: not a radical reinvention, but a meaningful step forward in styling, technology, and comfort. It keeps the XC60 competitive in a fiercely contested luxury SUV arena, and for buyers in India, the upcoming August launch should offer strong value through enhanced features and refined presentation.
