2024 VOLVO XC60 REVIEW

Volvo launched the XC60 in 2008 as a mid-sized luxury SUV that slots between the bigger XC90 and smaller XC40 models. Initially developed using Ford's EUCD platform before moving to Volvo's own SPA architecture, the XC60 became popular due to its combination of family utility, distinctive Scandinavian styling, and advanced safety features. It has since become one of Volvo's most successful models worldwide, earning recognition for its smooth driving experience, high-quality cabin, and cutting-edge technology.

Get More With TopCar

If you have a question about this model or any other automotive questions, you can now get answers on our forum.

TopCar Forum

If you want to sell or trade-in you vehicle, you can list it for free via our seller portal.

Seller Portal

If you wish to purchase this model local or abroad, you can do that via our marketplace.

Buy / Import Vehicle

Detailed Review

The Volvo XC60 was first introduced in 2008 as a midsize luxury SUV, positioned between the larger XC90 and the more compact XC40 in Volvo’s lineup. Built originally on Ford’s EUCD platform and later transitioned to Volvo’s in-house Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), the XC60 quickly gained popularity for its balance of family-friendly practicality, Scandinavian design, and class-leading safety technology. Over time, it has evolved into one of Volvo’s global best-sellers, consistently praised for its refined ride, premium interior, and innovative tech.

By 2018, the XC60 had entered its second generation and undergone a series of thoughtful updates that enhanced its appeal in a competitive segment. Most notably, Volvo continued its electrification push by offering the XC60 with a range of hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains:

A 2.0 L Turbocharged four-cylinder engine (B5), supported by a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
A more advanced 2.0 L Turbocharged and Supercharged engine (T8 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid), combining with an electric motor to deliver a robust 455 combined horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, along with a pure-electric driving range of up to 36 miles (EPA-estimated).
Front- and all-wheel-drive configurations, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, offer a confident and composed driving experience.

Inside, the 2024 XC60 features a minimalist, tech-forward cabin anchored by a vertically oriented 9-inch touchscreen powered by Google built-in. Intuitive voice commands, native Google Maps navigation, and seamless smartphone integration enhance the everyday experience, while high-quality materials and clean design reinforce the car’s luxury credentials.

For those interested in buying the Volvo XC60, we have prepared a separate Buyer’s Guide with details on what to look out for when buying a used one and the common pitfalls to avoid. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

2024 Volvo XC60 Grades

Volvo XC60 Core – The base trim is well-equipped with premium essentials, including 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights with automatic high beams, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in (Google Maps, Google Assistant, Google Play Store), dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats, keyless entry, rear parking sensors, lane keeping aid, blind spot monitoring, and Volvo’s standard City Safety suite with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection.

Volvo XC60 Plus – Stepping up to the Plus trim adds a broader suite of convenience and safety features such as 19-inch wheels, front parking sensors, a 360-degree surround-view camera system, Pilot Assist with adaptive cruise control, power tailgate with hands-free operation, ambient interior lighting, power-folding mirrors, and enhanced interior materials including aluminum or wood inlays.

Volvo XC60 Ultimate – The top-spec Ultimate trim focuses on luxury, technology, and refinement. It includes 20-inch alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights with active bending, Harman Kardon premium audio system, head-up display, ventilated front seats with power-adjustable cushion extensions, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, four-zone climate control, and advanced driver aids like Intersection Collision Mitigation and a more robust version of Pilot Assist with lane centering support.

Volvo XC60 Ultimate Black Edition (B5 AWD) – A bold, monochromatic take on the Ultimate trim, featuring exclusive Onyx Black exterior paint, 21-inch gloss black wheels, blacked-out grille and badging, and a charcoal Nappa leather interior with ventilated front seats and a charcoal headliner. Includes all Ultimate features like Harman Kardon premium audio, adaptive LED headlights, head-up display, heated front and rear seats, Pilot Assist with lane centering, and four-zone climate control. Powered by a 2.0L turbocharged mild hybrid engine (B5) with 247 hp and AWD.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2024 Volvo XC60 features a refined and spacious cabin that reflects Volvo’s commitment to Scandinavian simplicity and luxury. Its interior design emphasizes clean lines, high-quality materials, and cutting-edge tech. A standard 9-inch vertically-oriented touchscreen with Google built-in (including Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store) anchors the dashboard, while a 12.3-inch digital driver display provides crisp, configurable driving data.

The XC60 offers excellent front-seat space, with ample legroom, headroom, and supportive seats tailored for long-distance comfort. Rear passengers also benefit from generous legroom, making the XC60 a practical choice for families or frequent rear-seat use. Upholstery varies by trim, from durable leatherette to soft Nappa leather, with heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available depending on configuration. The panoramic sunroof enhances the cabin’s airy, open feel.

Cabin Storage

The XC60 includes thoughtfully designed storage throughout the cabin. Up front, occupants have access to large door pockets, a deep center console with a sliding cover, a wireless charging pad (on most trims), and dual front cupholders. Rear passengers benefit from seatback pockets, door storage, and a fold-down center armrest with cupholders. Optional features like a cooled glovebox and under-seat compartments add further practicality.

Boot Space

The 2024 XC60 provides 483 liters of cargo space behind the rear seats, offering plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or outdoor gear. Folding the rear seats flat (60/40 split) expands the cargo area to approximately 1,410 liters, creating a wide, usable load floor. A hands-free power tailgate is standard on most trims, making access easy even when your hands are full.

Exterior

The 2024 Volvo XC60 carries a mature, elegant design that balances sophistication with a subtle athletic edge. Its exterior styling reflects Volvo’s signature minimalist approach, with clean lines, a wide stance, and a refined silhouette that appeals to both urban professionals and active families. At the front, Thor’s Hammer LED headlights, a chrome-accented grille (or gloss black in the Black Edition), and a sculpted bumper create a confident and upscale look.

Strong shoulder lines, gently flared wheel arches, and flowing side contours give the XC60 a poised, timeless character. Alloy wheels range from 18 to 21 inches depending on trim, enhancing both performance and presence. Rear design elements include signature LED taillights that extend into the tailgate, integrated dual exhaust outlets (on mild hybrid models), and a subtle roof spoiler. A palette of refined colors—from Crystal White to Onyx Black—lets buyers tailor the XC60’s look to their style, with high-gloss and matte options available on select editions.

Safety Features

As one of Volvo’s flagship models, the 2024 XC60 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver assistance features. Standard and available technologies include:

City Safety with Collision Avoidance & Mitigation
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Steering Assist
Pilot Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control
Lane Keeping Aid and Lane Departure Warning
Run-off Road Mitigation
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert with Auto Brake
360-degree Surround View Camera
Driver Alert Control
Rear Collision Warning
Road Sign Information
Park Assist Pilot
Multiple airbags and Volvo’s Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS)

With its cutting-edge safety tech and top-tier crash ratings, the XC60 maintains Volvo’s legacy of prioritizing occupant protection and intelligent assistance.

Engine and Transmission Options

2024 Volvo XC60 Engine and Transmission Options

B4 (Mild Hybrid, FWD)
2.0 L 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Produces around 197 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. Comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.
B5 (Mild Hybrid, AWD)
2.0 L 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with mild hybrid assistance. Produces 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
T5 (Turbocharged Petrol, AWD)
2.0 L 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing approximately 250–260 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. (Available in select markets.)
T6 (Turbo & Supercharged Petrol, AWD)
2.0 L 4-cylinder turbocharged and supercharged petrol engine delivering about 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Comes with an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. (More common in previous model years.)
T8 Recharge (Plug-in Hybrid, AWD)
2.0 L 4-cylinder turbocharged and supercharged petrol engine combined with an electric motor for a total output of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. Comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Offers an electric-only range of about 36 miles (58 km).
D3 (Mild Hybrid, FWD Diesel)
2.0 L 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with mild hybrid system, producing around 150 hp and 236 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.
D4 (Mild Hybrid, AWD Diesel)
2.0 L 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with mild hybrid tech, generating approximately 190 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. Comes with an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.
D5 (Mild Hybrid, AWD Diesel)
2.0 L 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel with mild hybrid system, delivering about 235 hp and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque. Equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

All engines feature smooth 8-speed automatic gearboxes, with front-wheel drive on base petrol and diesel models and all-wheel drive on most others. The mild hybrid system helps improve efficiency and responsiveness, while the plug-in hybrid T8 offers impressive power and electric-only driving capability.

For well detailed information on which engines to choose and which to avoid ,we’ve created a dedicated Buyer’s Guide. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

2024 Volvo XC60 Fuel Consumption

Mild Hybrid AWD – Approx. 11.8 km/l .
T8 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid AWD – Approx. 43 MPGe (1.6 L/100 km combined), with real-world electric range around 50–60 km.

Fuel Tank Capacity – 71 liters.

2024 Volvo XC60 Acceleration

B5 Mild Hybrid AWD – 0–100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.
T8 Recharge AWD – 0–100 km/h in 4.5 seconds.

Ground Clearance – 8.5 inches (216 mm)

Service Intervals

Minor Service: Every 5,000 km – Includes oil change, oil filter, and system check.
Major Service: Every 10,000 km – Includes air/fuel filters, brake pads, cabin filter, spark plugs, ATF fluid, and comprehensive system diagnostics.

Spare Parts and Availability

Genuine Volvo parts for the XC60 are readily available at authorized dealers and specialized service centers. While routine items like filters and brake pads are accessible, high-end components (especially for T8 Recharge models) can be costly. Availability is generally strong in major markets.

Stability and Handling

The 2024 XC60 delivers a composed and refined ride, prioritizing comfort while maintaining agile handling. Volvo’s suspension tuning absorbs road imperfections with ease, and optional air suspension (on select trims) further enhances ride smoothness.

Steering is light yet precise, ideal for urban traffic or highway cruising. Drive modes such as Comfort, Eco, Dynamic, and Off-Road (AWD models) allow for tailored driving characteristics.

All-wheel drive models (B5 AWD and T8 Recharge) provide enhanced traction and confidence in varied weather and terrain.

Additional systems supporting stability and safety include:

Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC)
Corner Traction Control
Electronic Brake Distribution
Pilot Assist with Lane Centering
Roll Stability Control
Hill Start and Hill Descent Control

Cabin insulation is excellent, ensuring a quiet, serene environment even at high speeds.

Reliability

Volvo continues to strengthen its reputation for durability, and the 2024 XC60 is no exception. The mild hybrid B5 and plug-in hybrid T8 powertrains are based on proven designs, with refinements aimed at boosting efficiency and reducing wear.

While T8 models may occasionally require software updates, mechanical reliability remains strong. Consistent servicing per Volvo’s guidelines ensures long-term dependability.

Resale Value – Good.

Volvo XC60 Competitors
Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Lexus NX, Acura RDX.

What We Like About the 2024 Volvo XC60

Sophisticated, modern Scandinavian design
Exceptional safety and driver-assist features
Comfortable, quiet, and refined ride
Strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains
Google built-in infotainment system

What We Don’t

Can get pricey at higher trims
Some rivals offer more cargo space

Conclusion

The 2024 Volvo XC60 remains one of the most well-rounded premium midsize SUVs on the market. It delivers a compelling blend of comfort, safety, advanced tech, and eco-conscious performance. Whether you opt for the mild hybrid B5 or the high-performance T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid, the XC60 continues to embody Volvo’s future-forward ethos, wrapped in elegant Scandinavian style.

For those interested in buying the Volvo XC60, whether new or used, we’ve created a dedicated Buyer’s Guide with key tips and common issues to avoid. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

If you are looking to import the Volvo XC60 to Kenya, click here to fill out our contact form, and we will get back to you immediately, or email us directly via [email protected].