If the goal of tariffs is to move manufacturing to domestic plants, it might be working for Volvo and the XC60 SUV.
The automotive tariffs imposed by the current executive administration could have extreme effects on many automakers. In response to them, Volvo will move some production from European factories to its South Carolina-based location. This change should take place soon and allow the plant to begin producing XC60 models by the latter part of 2026. Considering the success of the Volvo XC60, this seems to be a smart move by the company.
How successful is the XC60
Sales of the Volvo SUV rose by nearly 23% during the first half of this year. This impressive increase caused the company to begin plans to move manufacturing of the XC60 to the United States. It is the most popular Volvo among US customers, which means localizing production makes perfect sense. Currently, only the high-end EX90 is built at the Charleston, South Carolina, facility. This means the addition of a new production line and more jobs for the local area around the Volvo factory.
Why is the Volvo XC60 popular?
The XC60 competes in the compact luxury SUV class, but it is among the larger models in that class. It could easily pass for a midsize SUV in some cases. It brings impressive Scandinavian styling and a well-built interior that makes it a fantastic choice when you want a comfortable and enjoyable SUV to drive on any road. The Thor’s Hammer headlights show brightly at the front, and the curvaceous Nordic design of the front seats makes this SUV even more appealing.
There are two distinct powertrains available for the XC60: the B5 and T8 PHEV models. The B5 model offers reasonable power and efficiency to deliver a high-quality drive for anyone who steps behind the wheel of this Volvo SUV. The T8 PHEV model is more efficient and has quicker acceleration, showing that a hybrid SUV doesn’t have to be boring.
Pros and Cons of the Volvo XC60
Pros
- Attractive styling inside and out
- Plenty of practicality
- Predictable handling
Cons
- Less cargo space than key rivals
- Ride can be harsh
- Google-based infotainment system need some refinement
What does the B5 version offer?
The standard setup for the Volvo XC60 is the B5 powertrain. This gives you a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which Volvo has perfected. It sends 247 horsepower and 266 Ib-ft of torque. This engine is attached to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which sends power to all four wheels thanks to the advanced AWD system. This powertrain delivers 22 city/28 hwy mpg, giving you good fuel mileage when you’re out on the road. This base version can reach 60 MPH in 6.5 seconds, which is respectable.
What does the T8 PHEV version offer?
If you want more power and a hybrid setup, the XC60 T8 PHEV is for you. This model uses the same engine as the B5, but adds and an electric motor to the mix. There’s also a starter/generator motor mounted between the engine and the transmission. This results in a total system output of 455 horsepower and 523 Ib-ft of torque. This model is more efficient than the B5, giving you 28 city/28 hwy mpg for your efficient driving pleasure. Because it’s a PHEV, this XC60 can drive for up to 36 miles using nothing more than the electric motor and battery pack. In terms of quickness, the T8 PHEV model reaches 60 MPH in 4.5 seconds, which is much faster than the base version.
Incredible interior styling
The Volvo XC60 is packed with upscale materials that make it feel much richer than its price tag. The cabin is quiet, comfortable, and stylish with amazing leather upholstery and soft-touch surfaces. Both rows of seats are comfortable and large enough to accommodate adults for a calm and comfortable ride. Behind the rear seats, you can fit up to 20 carry-on suitcases, and the seats fold down to open up to 63.3 cubic-feet of useable space. This Volvo SUV can tow up to 3,500 pounds, if you need to pull a small trailer with some extra stuff in it.
Plenty of tech in the XC60
When you step inside this Volvo SUV, you’ll be greeted with advanced technology and a cockpit that looks like a command center. Every XC60 model has a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that runs the latest Google-based software. The Google Assistant feature allows you to setup several personalization options to ensure you have the unique and personalized experience you want in your SUV. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard as is an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot that makes it easy for you to have the internet wherever you go.
The safety commitment
Volvo has been committed to safety and security since the invention of the seatbelt. The latest Volvo XC60 carries this commitment forward giving you a full package of standard driver-assist features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control to name a few.
The Volvo XC60 strikes the right balance of quality, luxury, style, tech, and safety, making it a popular choice among American shoppers. No wonder Volvo wants to avoid paying tariffs and has begun plans to move manufacturing to South Carolina.
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