The Volvo XC60, with over 2.7 million units sold since its 2008 debut, has become Volvo’s best-selling model, surpassing the Volvo 240. Initially produced in Europe, it later became the first Volvo model manufactured in China. In 2018, it was named World Car of the Year. The current XC60 generation is the best-selling plug-in hybrid in Europe. For 2026, the XC60 received updates including a modernized design, improved infotainment, and enhanced comfort.
The Volvo 240, introduced in 1974, featured front and rear crumple zones, a reinforced passenger compartment, and side-impact protection, later evolving into Volvo’s Side-Impact Protection System (SIPS). It introduced the Child Booster Cushion in 1978. The XC60 introduced City Safety in 2008, a low-speed automatic emergency braking system, and Oncoming Lane Mitigation in 2017, which steers the vehicle back into its lane if it drifts into oncoming traffic.
Volvo built the last 240 on May 5th, 1993. After twenty years and 2,685,171 units, the dynasty of the Volvo 240 came to an end. The model managed to outlive its successor, the 700 series.
Current XC60
The 2025 Volvo XC60 is a compact luxury SUV available in mild hybrid (B5) and plug-in hybrid (T8) powertrains. The B5, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt battery, produces 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. It achieves an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined, with a 0-62 mph time of 6.9 seconds. The T8 plug-in hybrid combines the same engine with an electric motor for a total of 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, offering 35 miles of electric range and 63 MPGe. The SUV measures 185.4 inches in length, has a 483-liter cargo capacity (expandable to 1,543 liters), and can tow up to 2,400 kg. It comes in three trims—Core, Plus, and Ultra—with standard features like a 9-inch touchscreen, Google built-in services (Maps, Assistant, Play), and a panoramic sunroof.
