Test driving the new Volvo XC60, which has undergone a minor change, reveals a significant, invisible evolution

Volvo XC60

Replaced with the latest generation grille

In recent years, the life cycles of European models have become longer. This is due to the fact that investments in EVs have been prioritized and resources have not been allocated to the development of new engine-powered vehicles. However, even small improvements can produce results that are not bad at all. — The exterior has been redesigned with a new front grille, darker rear combination lamps, and a new wheel design.

Eight years after its debut is usually the time for a full model change. However, this “XC60” is a minor change version. In fact, the XC60’s global sales last year reached a new record high. So it may be quite natural for Volvo to think that “the product’s appeal has not yet diminished.”

So, the key evolutionary changes aren’t particularly bold. On the exterior, the front grille has been redesigned to extend diagonally from both sides. The interior of the rear combination lamps has been darkened to create a more compact impression. The wheel design has also been updated for all grades. But that’s about it. The changes haven’t even reached the body panels like on the XC90.

Fine Nappa leather comes as standard on the Ultra grade, with Nordico textile, made from recycled and bio-based materials, available as a no-cost option. — [1]

However, the changes are most noticeable in the interior. First of all, the center display has been enlarged from 9 inches to 11.2 inches. The internal computer has also been upgraded to a next-generation model from Qualcomm, which has increased the speed of information processing and graphics generation. Also, while the Google-based infotainment system is still in place, the home screen has become easier to use. Other changes include a redesign of the center console and a move away from leather materials.

In fact, the turbo has been revamped.

The lineup remains the same as before, with the basic 2.0-liter inline-four turbo FF “Plus B5” at the bottom, the AWD “Ultra B5 AWD”, and the “Ultra T6 AWD Plug-in Hybrid” with additional motors at the front and rear. Prices are 7.89 million yen, 8.79 million yen, and 10.29 million yen, respectively.

Of these, the model I test drove was the Ultra B5 AWD, a popular grade that accounts for roughly half of sales. The first thing I noticed when I started driving was the powerful mid-range acceleration. When I stepped on the accelerator from a cruising position, the sharpness and power of acceleration was completely different from before. After the test drive, I checked with the PR person, who told me that the turbo had been changed to a variable nozzle type (VNT, VGT). The release only said that “the engine has been converted to a Miller cycle, improving fuel efficiency by 5%,” but…

Because it doesn’t change

The engine will be sourced from Horse Powertrain, a company formed by the integration of the engine divisions of Geely, Renault, and Volvo. The fuel economy of the B5 AWD has improved from 12.2km/L to 12.8km/L (WLTC).

The handling is clean and natural. The tires are thick, but the body doesn’t seem to be overwhelmed by the large inputs, and it feels like it’s well-fitting. It’s also very quiet, and the peaceful drive surrounded by the Scandinavian interior is honestly a rare find these days. As the surroundings have become more and more edgy, the appeal of Volvo has once again become more apparent.

Changing and being changed is not the only right thing. Sometimes polishing can increase value more than changing.

REPORT / Naohide Ichihara

PHOTO / Daijiro Kori

MAGAZINE / GENROQ September 2025 issue

SPECIFICATIONS

Volvo XC60 Ultra B5 AWD

Body size: Length 4710, Width 1900, Height 1660mm

Wheelbase: 2865mm

Vehicle weight: 1900kg

Engine: Inline 4-cylinder DOHC turbo

Total displacement: 1968cc

Maximum output: 184kW (250PS) / 5400-5700rpm

Maximum torque: 360Nm (36.7kgm) / 2000-4500rpm

Transmission: 8-speed AT

Drive system: AWD

Suspension type: Front double wishbone, rear multi-link

Brakes: Front ventilated disc, rear disc

Tire size: Front and rear 235/55R19

Top speed: 180km/h

0-100km/h acceleration: 6.9 seconds

Vehicle price: 8.79 million yen