Volvo appears to be preparing another update for the XC60, even though the current-generation SUV has already received multiple facelifts since its 2017 debut. A lightly camouflaged prototype has been spotted testing in Europe, suggesting the brand is not ready to retire its combustion-powered best-seller despite the arrival of the electric EX60.
The latest XC60 prototype was seen in Spain wearing only limited camouflage, but the changes appear more substantial than the disguise first suggests. The front end has been revised with slimmer headlights, a more detailed grille design, and a cleaner bumper that drops the triangular side intakes seen on the current model.
The side profile seems largely unchanged, which is not surprising given that the XC60 still uses the same basic shape introduced with the second-generation model in 2017. At the rear, Volvo covered the LED taillights with black tape, but the lamps appear to gain longer horizontal extensions across the redesigned tailgate.
The updated tailgate appears to feature a smaller license plate recess and a simpler overall design. The rear bumper also looks cleaner than before, although the prototype still carries provisional tailpipes underneath.
These exterior revisions point to another mid-cycle refresh rather than a full redesign. Volvo has already facelifted the XC60 twice, including a mild update in 2021 and a more comprehensive refresh for the 2026 model year.
The dashboard of the prototype was covered, but major cabin changes are not expected. The most recent facelift already brought upgraded materials, a larger 11.2-inch touchscreen, and a faster processor for the Google-powered infotainment system.
Because of that, Volvo is more likely to focus this next update on exterior tweaks and technical revisions rather than a complete interior redesign.
The most important changes may happen under the bodywork. According to the source, Volvo is preparing the XC60 to comply with Euro 7 emissions regulations, which could bring a heavily revised plug-in hybrid system.
Reports suggest the updated XC60 PHEV could offer up to 200 km, or 124 miles, of electric-only range. That figure has not been officially confirmed, but it would represent a major jump from the current 82 km, or 51 miles, and would move the XC60 closer to the Chinese-spec XC70 with its range-extender setup.
Volvo revealed the all-electric EX60 earlier this year, but the company does not appear ready to replace the XC60 with it. Instead, the updated XC60 is expected to remain part of the global lineup as a combustion and plug-in hybrid alternative for buyers not yet ready to switch fully to electric power.
The XC60 remains one of Volvo’s most important models, which explains why the brand continues to invest in the SUV despite its long production cycle.
The refreshed Volvo XC60 is expected to debut in the first half of 2027. Production currently takes place in Sweden and China, while Volvo is also set to add XC60 assembly at its Ridgeville plant in South Carolina from late 2026.
If the rumored plug-in hybrid upgrade arrives as reported, the next XC60 facelift could become more than a styling update, giving Volvo’s long-running SUV a stronger role alongside the new electric EX60.
