In India’s emerging luxury automotive market, Volvo Cars is targeting affluent Indian car buyers in competition with existing German rivals (Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi). The launch of the new, refreshed Volvo XC60 is a move to push its consistently successful model to gain further ground. The company is returning to its Scandinavian roots in terms of design sensibilities, while leveraging localisation and focusing on premium wellness to capture market share.
The Swedish automaker recognises that the Indian luxury segment is still in its nascent stage, with a total market size of only 50,000. However, there is an increase in aspirational buying, supported by the availability of financing and a growing number of higher-income individuals. It is well understood that affluent consumers invest in more than one vehicle in their fleet, and Volvo Cars is eager to be part of that mix. The new XC60 is designed to be safer, more connected, and wellness-focused.
“With the latest refreshed XC60, we are elevating the user experience to the next level, from a new-generation infotainment system and enhanced safety features to a contemporary Scandinavian design language,” said Jyoti Malhotra, MD, Volvo Car India. With regard to electrification and new entrants in the market, he says: “We welcome competition and appreciate that it indicates growth for the segment and increased penetration in the country.”
The MY26 model of the XC60 boasts a significant technological leap with its new freestanding 11.2-inch Google-powered touchscreen, featuring a next-generation user interface for enhanced safety and enjoyment. Powered by a faster Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, it offers superior image quality and seamless updates. Complementing this is an immersive 1,410W Bowers & Wilkins sound system with 15 speakers. Advanced safety is paramount, featuring City Safety, Run-off Road Protection, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, Pilot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Aid, Blind Spot Information with Cross Traffic Alert & Brake Support, Collision Mitigation (front & rear), and comprehensive 360-degree camera parking assistance.
Loaded with features
Under the bonnet, the facelifted XC60 retains the same 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine as before. This engine produces 250hp and 360Nm of torque, which is sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission. It can accelerate from 0-100 kph in 6.9 seconds and reach a limited top speed of 180 kph. The addition of a 48V mild-hybrid battery helps improve fuel efficiency and acceleration.
Epitomising Scandinavian luxury, the automaker has blended minimalist elegance with a strong focus on wellness. Its cabin features the serene new Blond interior option, genuine wood inlays, and an exclusive Charcoal dashboard with contrasting seams. Nappa leather upholstery and ergonomic seats, including massaging functions, prioritise comfort. Wellness extends beyond aesthetics: advanced air-cleaner technology ensures pristine cabin air quality, while exceptional acoustic insulation creates a remarkably quiet, tranquil environment. This holistic approach – using natural materials, maximising light and space, and actively purifying the air – defines Volvo’s human-centric design. This understated sophistication is being positioned as the brand’s differentiator, elevating the company’s aesthetic above its competitors.
Externally, the XC60 presents a more contemporary and powerful stance, featuring a redesigned grille with a slimmer profile and iconic iron mark, sharper darkened tail lights, and new 19-inch 5-double-spoke, glossy-black, diamond-cut alloy wheels. Customers can personalise their SUV with sophisticated paint options, including the new nature-inspired Forest Lake colour. Enhanced comfort and practicality are delivered through ergonomically designed seating, a smarter storage layout with new cup holders and a wireless charger, and a flexible, roomy load compartment – ensuring ultimate convenience alongside its striking new look
Volvo’s strategic use of Completely Knocked Down (CKD) assembly at its Bengaluru plant is fundamental to its success in India. This localisation goes beyond cost-saving; it allows Volvo to tailor features for Indian preferences, prioritising robust air filtration, enhanced cabin insulation for urban noise, and efficient mild-hybrid powertrains suited to traffic conditions. CKD assembly strengthens market responsiveness, improves affordability against rivals, and demonstrates Volvo’s long-term commitment to the segment while maintaining its global quality and safety standards. With 23 showrooms and 24 workshops strategically located across India, after-sales service is also well supported by the luxury carmaker.
Volvo Cars hopes that the new XC60 will help bridge the sales gap while its electrification plans gather momentum. Positioned at an introductory price of ₹71.9 lakh (ex-showroom) in time for the upcoming festival season, the refreshed Volvo XC60 represents a compelling value proposition in India’s competitive luxury SUV segment.