Volvo Brings Back an Icon: Meet the New XC70 Extended-Range Plug-in Hybrid

Get ready, Volvo fans! There’s a new player entering the electrified arena, and it’s bringing back a familiar nameplate. Volvo Cars is set to launch the new Volvo XC70, and this time, it’s arriving as the brand’s first extended-range plug-in hybrid.

A Bridge to Electrification with Serious Range
Volvo Cars sees the new XC70 as a strategic entry into the extended-range plug-in hybrid segment. Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive of Volvo Cars, describes it as a “perfect bridge to full electrification”. This approach allows Volvo to maintain a balanced product portfolio while offering an attractive option for customers not yet ready for fully electric vehicles.

What makes this new XC70 stand out is its impressive pure electric range of up to 200 kilometres*. This is noted as Volvo Cars’ longest-range plug-in hybrid to date. This extended range, combined with fast charging capabilities, means you can handle most daily commutes and travel without tailpipe emissions and at a lower cost. For those longer journeys, the efficient combustion engine is there to provide freedom and flexibility, allowing travel without worrying about charging or refuelling.

The new XC70 is built on a new platform called SMA, which stands for Scalable Modular Architecture. This platform is described as a premium extended-range plug-in hybrid architecture.

Designed with Modern Scandinavian Flair
True to Volvo’s heritage, the new XC70 builds on the tradition of solid and purposeful design, reflecting a modern take on Scandinavian design heritage. It boasts a commanding stance and distinct features that convey calm confidence and rational simplicity. The exterior features seamless lines flowing from front to rear, and a sweeping roofline combined with a sculpted shoulder creates a robust yet dynamic silhouette.
Up front, you’ll notice a shield-like closed grille, which takes inspiration from Volvo’s all-electric models. This grille is paired with an active grille shutter that automatically adjusts to optimize aerodynamics, cabin climate, and cooling. This smart feature helps improve energy efficiency, which in turn extends the driving range.
The signature Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights have evolved into a bolder expression. Just below these, the XC70 incorporates headlights with Matrix LED technology. This technology allows the headlights to intelligently adjust to road and traffic conditions, boosting both visibility and safety. At the rear, the vertical C-shaped taillights are seamlessly integrated into the rear glass, resulting in a flush, contemporary look that is both striking and functional.

Carrying on a Legacy
The decision to name this new vehicle the XC70 is significant, as it shares its name with one of Volvo’s most iconic cars. The original XC70 was an adventurous evolution of the traditional V70 estate, known as a versatile family car ready for various adventures. The new XC70 continues this legacy, entering the market as a mid-size SUV format that is slightly larger and more spacious than the Volvo XC60.

Initial Availability and What’s Next
The new XC70 is designed specifically to meet the demand for longer-range plug-in hybrids in China, where it will be available for order later this year. Volvo Cars is exploring potential additional markets for availability at a later stage. More details about the new XC70 are expected to be revealed in the coming months.
*(*The driving range estimate is based on testing done according to the CLTC standard and is only applicable to the China market).