Electric XC60 for a new era: Volvo EX60 aims for premium without Mercedes-level prices

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The Volvo EX60 is entering the most crowded segment of electric SUVs, where the Tesla Model Y, BMW iX3 and Mercedes GLC EQ are already lined up. The Swedes are betting on a WLTP range of up to 810 km, an 800-volt platform and an interior that feels noticeably more upmarket.

The 4.8-metre crossover is the electric alternative to the XC60 and rides on the new SPA3 architecture. It supports 10-to-80% charging in under 20 minutes and uses a Cell-to-Body battery, where the cells become part of the body’s load-bearing structure. Volvo claims this lifts energy density by around 20%, cuts weight and adds rigidity.

There will be three power levels: 374, 510 and 680 hp. Six versions in total: P6 Plus from €64,900, P6 Ultra from €72,281, P10 AWD Plus from €67,925, P10 AWD Ultra from €75,306, P12 AWD Plus from €73,975 and P12 AWD Ultra from €81,356.

The cabin gets Scandinavian minimalism, recycled materials, a Google-based interface, 5G, OTA updates and Gemini integration. There is one debatable point: even the mirrors, steering wheel and climate are tied to the screen, which can be irritating on the move. The boot holds 523 litres, there is a 52-litre frunk up front, and the Ultra version gets a 1,820 W Bowers & Wilkins audio system with 28 speakers.

The EX60 looks like a Volvo that waited for its rivals to slip up and then tried to deliver a more mature product. The big question remains: how close the promised 810 km will get to the real-world range, rather than just a neat WLTP line.