New luxury SUVs coming to South Africa – What to expect

Volvo has officially announced that its first-ever long-range plug-in hybrid SUVs will be brought to South Africa.

The Swedish carmaker launched the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants of its best-selling XC60 and XC90 SUVs in European and American markets this week, boasting an updated design, new features, and a greatly improved electric range.

““The XC60 is our best-selling model of all time, while the XC90 marked the beginning of our premium journey,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President & CEO at Volvo Cars.

“Now, as long-range plug-in hybrids, they build on those legacies and, together with the all-electric EX60, give us our strongest-ever electrified offering in the mid-size SUV segment. This means a path to full electrification for every customer.”

Both vehicles have been confirmed for a South African release, and are expected to arrive in the first half of 2027.

Pricing will only be announced closer to the launch window; however, as a point of reference, the most expensive PHEV XC60 currently retails for R1,530,700, while the XC90 asks for R1,936,500, so expect the new models to be priced north of these points.

Volvo’s new luxury plug-in hybrids

The incoming XC60 and XC90 have two and a half times as much electric range as the existing PHEV models.

The midsize XC60 will have a range of 200km, while the flagship XC90 can travel 160km on a single charge.

“This is thanks to a new, larger-capacity, floor-integrated battery and a more powerful electric motor, while the petrol engine can take over when needed. Both cars also remain available as mild hybrids,” explained the company.

The XC60 is also getting a facelift with new Thor’s Hammer Matrix LED headlights, LED taillights, and an updated rear bumper.

Inside, it features a new dashboard and door panel design with wood decor and Cardamom ventilated Nappa leather upholstery, which is meant to create a calm Scandinavian-inspired cabin theme.

It also has an expanded driver assistance suite with collision detection that allows the car to respond in real time, warning the driver or stepping in to avoid or reduce the impact.

It also has an improved camera and radar system with 360-degree coverage and a 3D view display. Most functions are accessed via an 11.2-inch infotainment screen with Google Gemini’s AI assistant.

As for the XC90, a Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system will be made available as an optional extra. Both cars will benefit from regular over-the-air software updates.