Volvo XC70 to Return as Plug-in Hybrid SUV We Can’t Have
Remember the XC70 wagon that Volvo discontinued after the 2016 model year? We’re pretty sure you do. Well, it’s about to return as a midsize SUV featuring a new extended-range plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Don’t get excited: this vehicle based on the Volvo’s Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA) is designed specifically for China, where it will be built. Orders will begin there later in 2025. The company is “exploring potential additional markets at a later stage,” it said, although North America is unlikely to be one of them.
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Based on testing done according to the CLTC standard, which is only applicable to the Chinese market and even more optimistic than the WLTP, the new XC70 will apparently deliver a pure electric range of up to 200 km, making it Volvo’s longest-range plug-in hybrid to date.
Even if we cut that range in half to be more realistic, it would still exceed the 53-64 km achieved by the Swedish manufacturer's current crop of PHEV models in Canada.
CEO Håkan Samuelsson said the XC70 will enable Volvo “to maintain and develop a balanced product portfolio while offering a highly attractive alternative to customers who are not yet ready for fully electric cars. This is also an example of regionalisation, where we adapt to the local market needs.”
Judging from the teaser images, the design looks like a natural cross between the XC60 and the larger, three-row XC90, but with a shield-like closed grille up front that’s more reminiscent of the all-electric EX90.
More details and specs including battery capacity and power will be announced following the XC70’s official debut in the coming months.
