Long-range plug-in hybrids have been pretty elusive in the US. While already commonplace in parts of Europe and China, they have yet to make their way to the Stateside. Volvo is taking the lead, rolling out some of the first long-range EVs for the American market: the 2028 XC60 and XC90.
Volvo claims these extended-range plug-in models will help bridge the gap between traditional hybrids and full battery electric vehicles (which the company will continue to produce). And until another brand decides to play ball, these two SUVs will act as the longest-range plug-in hybrids in the United States.
2028 Volvo XC60 And XC90 Key Facts
- What's new? Volvo's best-selling models get a larger and more powerful battery that gets 78 and 73 miles of pure electric range.
- What does that mean? These two SUVs will be the longest-range plug-in hybrids in America.
- What else? The XC60 gets another facelift with a new front face and an enhanced interior.
Not Just Big Range, But Big Power
The XC60 T8 plug-in is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired to the aforementioned battery. It makes 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, sending the car from 0-60 miles per hour in just 4.5 seconds. Power is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic.
That setup yields 78 miles of pure electric range. While not the triple-digit figures that Chinese OEMs have come out with in recent years, Volvo claims the 78-mile range is enough for drivers to rely on EV power for multiple days at a time.
The XC90 T8 receives the same powertrain as the XC60, albeit with a slower 0-60 time of just 5.0 seconds. The XC90 sees a 73-mile pure electric range, utilizing the same larger battery and more powerful electric motor, while both SUVs have a top speed of 112 mph.
Like the entire Polestar brand, the T8 Polestar-trimmed XC60 has been dropped from the lineup, meaning the standard T8 is as close to a performance XC60 as you can get. And while Volvo hasn't said if these enhancements will trickle down into other models, it could only be a matter of time before extended-range hybrids reach across the portfolio.
A Pleasantly Refreshed XC60
Along with the newer battery, the XC60 receives a second mid-cycle facelift to help keep the car fresh. Outside, the XC60 gets a new front fascia, including a new front bumper, grille, and hood. Around the sides and rear, bulged fenders and a new rear bumper keep the car looking sharp. The XC60 also sees the next-generation version of Volvo’s Thor’s Hammer LED headlights.
Inside, the interior stays mostly the same with a few minor tweaks. Chief among these is a new Cardamom brown leather seat option, as well as the same Brown Ash wood inlays introduced in the smaller XC40.
Google Gemini comes standard as part of Volvo’s updated infotainment system, all running through an 11.2-inch central touchscreen display.
Plenty Of New Volvo Safety Tech
Because we are talking about Volvo, the XC60 has seen a slew of safety enhancements as well.
A redesigned 360-degree camera enabled by new surround-car sensors helps drivers navigate tough spots. Volvo’s new cyclist detection system, which will alert occupants if a bicycle is approaching the door when the car is stopped, is also now available.
These features are combined with Volvo's standard driver assistance technology, which can both stop drivers before and steer around any potential danger. The XC60 and XC90 also have active brake assist, which can help mitigate the speed of a collision, that is, if the car doesn't prevent it first.
| Model | Electric Range | Output | 0-60 MPH | Weight |
| 2028 Volvo XC60 PHEV | 78 Miles | 455 HP / 523 LB-FT | 4.5 Seconds | 4,885 Pounds |
| 2028 Volvo XC90 PHEV | 73 Miles | 455 HP / 523 LB-FT | 5.0 Seconds | 5,271 Pounds |
Available Early 2027
The updated XC60 T8 will launch in early 2027 for the 2028 model year. The XC90 will follow soon after. Volvo has not revealed pricing for either car, but expect the XC60 to start around $65,000, and for the XC90 to start closer to $80,000.
It is unclear whether or not other luxury brands will have extended-range plug-in models by the time the upcoming XC60 and XC90 reach dealer lots; however, these cars could prove to be serious competition against battery electric rivals from brands like BMW and Mercedes
Gallery: 2028 Volvo XC60 T8 Long Range
Motor1's Take: Volvo has always been king of the hill when it comes to plug-in hybrids, so it seems natural that it would be the first brand to introduce long-range plug-ins to the US market. As long as these two cars don't debut with Volvo's iffy software, as have previous cars, we think these could be slam dunks in the market.
