Inside the 2026 Volvo XC60: New Tech, Premium Materials, and Hybrid Power

The 2026 Volvo XC60 comes with a comprehensive update that extends well beyond its sleek exterior. This premium midsize SUV introduces substantial technological and comfort enhancements, from a completely reimagined infotainment experience to refined interior materials and enhanced performance capabilities. The improvements touch every aspect of ownership, from the moment you interact with the larger central screen to the whisper-quiet cabin that surrounds you on every journey.

For drivers in Ontario seeking a luxury SUV that balances Scandinavian design with advanced technology, the 2026 XC60 delivers a thoughtful evolution. Understanding what lies beneath the refreshed appearance reveals why this update matters.

Next-Generation Infotainment System

The 2026 XC60 introduces Volvo's new-generation user experience, centered around an 11.2-inch free-standing touchscreen that replaces the previous 9-inch display. Pixel density increases by 21%, delivering a noticeably crisper and more vibrant display. This larger canvas opens access to expanded features, apps, and over-the-air updates that keep the vehicle current long after purchase.

The next-generation Snapdragon Cockpit Platform from Qualcomm Technologies powers the system, delivering performance that's more than twice as fast as the outgoing setup. Graphics generation accelerates by a factor of ten, resulting in smooth transitions, instant response to inputs, and fluid animations throughout the interface. The system displays information contextually, showing relevant data at the right time to minimize driver distraction and enhance safety.

Google services integrate directly into the platform, providing access to Google Maps for navigation, Google Assistant for voice control, and the Google Play Store for compatible apps. The interface focuses on personalization, allowing drivers to customize their experience while maintaining the clean, uncluttered aesthetic that defines Volvo's design philosophy.

Refined Interior Materials and Thoughtful Storage

Volvo introduces a mix of refreshed interior decors, inlays, and premium materials for 2026, including Quilted Nordico and Navy Herringbone Weave options. These materials deliver a more exclusive and contemporary cabin experience, elevating the XC60's already strong interior quality. The attention to detail extends to practical elements like smart storage solutions, redesigned cupholders, and an improved wireless phone charger that holds devices more securely.

The load compartment remains flexible and roomy, offering 613 litres of cargo capacity with the rear seats in place and expanding to 1,543 litres when folded. This versatility accommodates everything from weekly grocery runs to weekend adventures, while maintaining the premium feel that luxury buyers expect.

Interior Highlights:

• Quilted Nordico and Navy Herringbone Weave premium materials
• Redesigned cupholders and smart storage throughout cabin
• Improved wireless phone charging with better device retention
• 613 L cargo capacity (rear seats up) / 1,543 L (seats folded)

Enhanced Comfort Through Engineering Excellence

The 2026 XC60 achieves an even quieter cabin through improved sound insulation and acoustic engineering. Combined with Volvo's legendary seat comfort as standard equipment, the result is a sanctuary on wheels that isolates occupants from road noise and harsh impacts.

For those seeking further refinement, optional air suspension and laminated windows smooth out road surface variations and create a serene environment. Volvo's state-of-the-art air purification technology enhances well-being by filtering incoming air and maintaining cabin freshness. The system works continuously to remove particles and allergens, particularly valuable for families with young children or anyone sensitive to air quality.

The available Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system represents one of the finest in-car audio experiences available. The 1,410-watt system features 15 high-fidelity speakers, including the signature Tweeter-on-Top centre speaker and an air-ventilated subwoofer that delivers deep bass without sacrificing cargo space. Advanced Nautilus technology ensures refined sound reproduction, while four selectable room modes - including Concert Hall and Jazz Club - allow listeners to tailor the acoustic environment to their preferences.

Powertrain Options: Efficiency and Performance

The 2026 XC60 lineup offers two distinct powertrain choices, both featuring standard all-wheel drive.

B5 AWD Mild Hybrid:

The B5 pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivering 247 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This configuration achieves 0 - 100 km/h acceleration in 6.9 seconds while maintaining respectable fuel economy at 9.0 L/100 km combined.

T8 AWD Plug-in Hybrid:

For drivers seeking maximum performance and electric driving capability, the T8 generates a combined 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. The system pairs the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with a rear-mounted electric motor, enabling 0 - 100 km/h acceleration in just 4.8 seconds. The 18.8 kWh battery provides up to 58 kilometres of pure electric range, allowing many drivers to complete daily commutes with zero tailpipe emissions. Level 2 charging restores the battery to full capacity in approximately five hours.

T8 AWD Plug-in Hybrid Polestar Engineered:

The Polestar Engineered variant takes performance further with specialized chassis tuning, advanced Öhlins shock absorbers, and lightweight 21-inch forged wheels. The Öhlins Dual Flow Valve technology enables rapid shock absorber response, maintaining tire contact with the road surface even after encountering bumps or potholes. This results in precise handling and confident control without sacrificing everyday ride comfort.

Contemporary Exterior Design Updates

The exterior updates apply across the XC60 lineup. The new air intake features Volvo's iconic iron mark, echoing recent updates to the flagship XC90. Darker rear lights create a more modern appearance, while new wheel options ranging from 18 to 21 inches allow buyers to customize their vehicle's stance.

Three new colours join the palette: Forest Lake, Aurora Silver, and Mulberry Red. These additions provide fresh options for buyers seeking to distinguish their XC60 from the crowd while maintaining the understated elegance that characterizes Scandinavian design.

Comprehensive Safety Technology

The 2026 XC60 maintains Volvo's reputation for safety leadership through a comprehensive suite of active and passive technologies. City Safety collision avoidance monitors for potential impacts with vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals, applying automatic braking when necessary. Pilot Assist with adaptive cruise control reduces driver fatigue on long journeys by maintaining speed and lane position.

Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert warns of vehicles in adjacent lanes or approaching from behind when reversing. Lane Keeping Aid and Oncoming Lane Mitigation help prevent unintended lane departures, while Rear Collision Warning with braking protects against rear-end impacts. A 360-degree camera and Park Assist simplify manoeuvring in tight spaces, and Road Sign Information keeps drivers informed of current speed limits and restrictions.

The structural safety cage and full airbag suite provide protection in the event of a collision, demonstrating Volvo's holistic approach to occupant safety.

Warranty Coverage and Ownership Benefits

Canadian XC60 owners benefit from Volvo's comprehensive warranty coverage, including a 4-year/80,000 km New Vehicle Limited Warranty and matching Powertrain Warranty. Hybrid components receive extended protection through an 8-year/160,000 km Hybrid Component Warranty, providing peace of mind for plug-in hybrid buyers. Roadside Assistance covers 4 years with unlimited kilometres, while corrosion protection extends for 12 years with no kilometre limit.

Experience the Refreshed XC60 at Volvo Cars Toronto

The 2026 Volvo XC60 proves that meaningful enhancements extend far beyond surface-level styling. From the dramatically improved infotainment system to the refined interior materials, enhanced comfort features, and powerful plug-in hybrid capability, this refresh addresses the elements that matter most in daily ownership.

Visit our team at Volvo Cars Toronto to explore the 2026 XC60 lineup