Volvo has long been synonymous with safety, Scandinavian design, and understated luxury. In 2025, the brand takes things a step further with the new Volvo XC60, a luxury SUV that blends cutting-edge technology, eco-friendly powertrains, and premium comfort. We recently had the opportunity to take it for a first drive, and the experience made one thing clear: the XC60 is more than just an SUV; it’s a statement of modern-day luxury.
Here’s everything you need to know from our first drive experience.
A Fresh Design with Scandinavian Elegance
The 2025 Volvo XC60 continues to embrace the minimalist Scandinavian design philosophy that Volvo is known for, but with sharper updates that make it more contemporary.
- Front Fascia: A refreshed grille with sleeker chrome accents and a more sculpted bumper gives the XC60 a commanding road presence.
- Lighting: The signature “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlamps are now slimmer and more futuristic, while the rear features new LED taillight clusters.
- Wheels: New alloy wheel designs ranging from 18 to 21 inches add to its sporty yet refined appeal.
- Proportions: The XC60 retains its elegant stance, striking the balance between a practical family SUV and a luxury lifestyle vehicle.
On the road, the XC60 feels both bold and sophisticated — exactly what premium SUV buyers look for.
Interior: Comfort Meets Sustainability
Step inside, and the 2025 XC60 cabin feels like a modern luxury lounge. Volvo has doubled down on sustainability by using recycled materials, eco-friendly textiles, and responsibly sourced leather alternatives without compromising luxury.
Key highlights from our first drive cabin experience:
- Dashboard: Minimalist design with clean lines and a new central infotainment screen.
- Seating: Ergonomically designed seats with massage, ventilation, and heating options for front passengers.
- Materials: High-quality wool blends and recycled composites add a premium yet eco-friendly touch.
- Space: Generous legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making it ideal for long drives.
- Ambience: Panoramic sunroof and customizable ambient lighting enhance the luxury feel.
The XC60 interior continues to showcase Volvo’s ability to make luxury sustainable without losing its premium charm.
Infotainment & Technology
The 2025 XC60 comes packed with technology that makes driving more intuitive and enjoyable.
- Infotainment: A large vertically oriented touchscreen powered by the latest Google Android Automotive OS, offering seamless access to Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store apps.
- Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and OTA (over-the-air) software updates.
- Digital Cockpit: A crisp 12.3-inch driver display with customizable themes and real-time driving info.
- Audio System: Premium Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system delivering audiophile-grade quality.
- Driver Assistance: Advanced ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
The integration of intuitive software and Volvo’s focus on user-friendly tech makes the XC60 feel futuristic yet practical.
Performance and Driving Experience
During our first drive, the 2025 XC60 impressed with its refined performance. Volvo offers multiple powertrains, including mild-hybrid petrol, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric variants, depending on the market.
- Acceleration: Smooth and quick, thanks to instant torque delivery from the hybrid and EV setups.
- Ride Quality: Adaptive suspension absorbs bumps gracefully, offering comfort on city roads and highways alike.
- Handling: Precise steering, strong grip, and minimal body roll — ideal for spirited driving.
- Drive Modes: Eco, Comfort, Dynamic, and Off-Road modes let drivers tailor the experience to their needs.
- Range (Hybrid/EV): Plug-in hybrid offers up to 80 km of pure electric range, while the EV version (if available in your market) promises well over 450 km per charge.
The XC60 strikes a balance between eco-conscious performance and dynamic driving pleasure.
Safety: The Volvo Legacy Continues
Volvo has always been a pioneer in automotive safety, and the 2025 XC60 continues this tradition with next-gen features.
- City Safety Suite: Includes collision avoidance with pedestrian, cyclist, and large animal detection.
- Pilot Assist: Semi-autonomous driving on highways with adaptive cruise and lane centering.
- 360-Degree Camera: Helps with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
- Cross-Traffic Alert & Rear Collision Warning: Enhance confidence in city driving.
- Structural Integrity: Built on Volvo’s strong SPA2 platform, ensuring world-class crash protection.
Safety isn’t just an add-on for Volvo; it’s at the heart of the brand, and the XC60 proves it once again.
Sustainability at the Core
One of the standout aspects of the 2025 Volvo XC60 is its commitment to sustainability. Volvo plans to be a fully electric brand by 2030, and the XC60 reflects that ambition.
- Recycled Materials: Extensive use of recycled plastics and eco-friendly fabrics in the cabin.
- Electrification Options: Availability of hybrid and EV powertrains reduces carbon emissions.
- Production Practices: Built in plants that increasingly rely on renewable energy.
This makes the XC60 appealing not just to luxury buyers but also to those who prioritize environmentally conscious choices.
Pricing and Market Positioning
While Volvo has yet to announce exact pricing for all markets, the 2025 XC60 is expected to start around ₹70 lakh in India (ex-showroom) and about $55,000 in international markets. With the new updates, it competes directly with rivals like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Lexus NX.
The added features, improved sustainability, and advanced tech make it a strong value proposition in the luxury SUV segment.
Final Verdict
After our first drive review of the 2025 Volvo XC60, it’s clear that this SUV is more than just an update. It’s a comprehensive package of luxury, safety, tech, and sustainability that caters perfectly to modern buyers.
For those seeking a refined, eco-conscious, and feature-rich premium SUV, the new XC60 is among the best options available. Volvo has managed to create a vehicle that appeals not just to the heart with its luxury but also to the mind with its eco-friendly engineering.