By Khulekani Dumisa

We recently spent time with the facelifted Volvo XC60 T8 Plug-In Hybrid AWD Ultra Dark, and while the updates are subtle, they do just enough to keep one of Volvo’s most popular SUVs feeling fresh. Rather than reinventing the XC60, Volvo has focused on refining an already well-rounded package.

Visually, it remains as elegant as ever, featuring 20-inch five Y-spoke gloss black diamond-cut alloy wheels, a revised front grille, a redesigned lower air intake, darker LED taillights, and gloss black exterior trim. The XC60 continues to strike a balance between understated sophistication and strong road presence.

Inside, the biggest change is the new 11.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, paired with a 12.3-inch digital driver display. The cabin also benefits from improved sound insulation, upgraded air purification, and ventilated Nappa leather upholstery. Premium materials are found almost everywhere you touch, while standard features such as heated front and rear seats, climate control, a heated steering wheel, keyless entry, and a power tailgate reinforce the XC60’s premium feel. The updated infotainment system is intuitive to use and breathes new life into the dashboard, while the Bowers & Wilkins sound system remains one of the highlights on longer journeys.

Power comes from a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 340kW and 709Nm. Performance is effortless, with Volvo claiming a 0-100km/h time of 4.8 seconds, while the 19kWh battery provides up to 81km of electric-only driving. Claimed fuel consumption is just 1.8L/100km, highlighting the efficiency of the hybrid system.

Verdict

The XC60 T8 Ultra continues to show why it has remained one of the strongest contenders in the premium midsize SUV segment. It blends understated styling, a beautifully finished interior, impressive technology, and a refined yet powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain into a package that’s easy to recommend. At R1,500,700, it certainly isn’t inexpensive, but if you’re looking for a luxury SUV that excels in everyday driving while offering genuine efficiency, the XC60 remains one of the best options on the market.