Volvo is set to introduce a new powertrain for the XC60 and XC90, significantly increasing the electrical range of the onboard hybrid system. The new “T8” configuration combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine with two electric motors, resulting in a total output of up to 455 horsepower.
The XC60 T8 will have an electric-only range of up to 78 miles in EPA numbers, the highest of any plug-in hybrid on sale in the U.S. The larger Volvo XC90 will also get the same powertrain, with a slightly lower EPA range of 73 miles.
New Powertrain and Battery
The T8 powertrain is made possible by a 37.9-kWh battery pack, which is more than twice the capacity of the previous XC60 T8. The battery pack is located under the floor, allowing for a more efficient use of space. The hybrid system splits its effort between an electrically-powered rear axle and the four-cylinder engine turning the front wheels.
Changes have been made to the car’s understructure to accommodate the larger battery pack. The turbo engine now works in conjunction with a starter-generator, which can add modest electrical assistance to the front axle.
Design and Interior Updates
The XC60 is also being given a facelift to extend its lifespan beyond the point where Volvo was previously planning to go EV-only. The updates include a new hood, fenders, and headlights, as well as revised tailgate, rear lights, and bumper. The interior features a revised user interface system based around a new 11.2-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen and Google Gemini as a voice-activated assistant.
The Pilot Assist smart cruise control can now deal with lane changes, and there is a new, high-resolution 360-degree camera system. The XC60 also features new materials chosen to maximize the upmarket Scandinavian feeling. The car’s older architecture allows for the continued presence of much of the physical switchgear that has been excised from Volvo’s recently-launched EVs.
Production and Availability
Both the T8 and non-hybridized B5 versions of the XC60 will be available for sale next year as 2028 models. The entry-level XC60 B5 Core and mid-range B5 Plus will be produced at Volvo’s Ridgeville plant in South Carolina, while the range-topping B5 Ultra and the T8 versions will continue to be built in Sweden.
