Volvo Cars has unveiled the new XC70 as a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) for the Chinese market. Previously, the ‘XC70’ name was associated with an off-road version of the Volvo V70 station wagon, but the 2025 model now marks a full-fledged SUV. The luxury carmaker’s PHEV will slot between the XC60 and XC90 SUVs.
- Production of the XC70 has begun in China
- Launch in other countries being explored
The XC70 PHEV has been developed specifically “to meet the demand for longer-range plug-in hybrids in China”. That said, the Swedish carmaker has confirmed that it is planning to bring the car to Europe “at a later stage”.
New Volvo XC70 range, platform
Over 1,200km range; built on the new Scalable Modular Architecture
The petrol-hybrid setup has a range of over 1,200km, as per China’s testing cycle. Its electric-only range of over 200km alone is the highest for any Volvo car yet. All-wheel drive will also be offered with the SUV, while the battery will support fast charging (0-80 percent in just 23 minutes). Interestingly, there will be bi-directional charging capability as well, not typically associated with PHEVs.
Details from Chinese government filings
Volvo has yet to officially reveal the full technical details of the XC70. However, it has confirmed that the new XC70 is underpinned by the new Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA), designed for range-extended electric vehicles, and Volvo describes it as “a premium extended-range plug-in hybrid [base]”. Chinese filings earlier showed the car will pair a 160bhp, 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, backed by either a 21.2kWh or 39.64kWh battery. The model could measure 4,815mm in length and 1,890mm in width, putting it close to the BMW X5 in size.
New Volvo XC70 exterior design
Active shutter tech for optimised airflow borrowed from Volvo EVs
The XC70 borrows visual cues from other Volvo models, like the signature ‘Thor’s Hammer’ DRLs and C-shaped tail-lights. Its front section is fully sealed, including both the nose and bumper grille, which features an active shutter system that opens and closes automatically. Inspired by Volvo EVs, the shutter optimises aerodynamics, cabin climate and cooling. Flanking the bumper are Matrix LED headlights that adapt to traffic and road conditions, enhancing both visibility and safety.
The XC70 design comprises smooth lines that flow from front to rear, complemented by a gently sloping roofline. Other exterior design elements include flush-fitting door handles, aerodynamic alloy wheels, a sculpted section along the doors, and LED tail-lights (which look similar to the all-electric Volvo EX40).
Volvo XC70 interior features
15.4-inch touchscreen, 91-inch augmented reality heads-up display
Inside, the overall theme is simplistic, with very few physical controls. The XC70 gets electric adjustment for the front seats, a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, a 15.4-inch landscape touchscreen like the one in the EX90, a wireless charger and an optional 91-inch augmented reality heads-up display. A massive sunroof will also be available.
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