by Michael Gauthier
- Volvo has introduced the new XC70, which launches in China for roughly $62,000.
- The model features a plug-in hybrid powertrain that offers up to 112 miles of electric-only range.
- The crossover offers front- and all-wheel drive as well as combined outputs of up to 456 hp.
Subaru isn’t the only automaker transforming an iconic wagon into an SUV as Volvo has taken the wraps off the new XC70. It’s a Chinese-focused crossover that’s designed to appeal to families seeking a “more comfortable and relaxed lifestyle.”
Instantly recognizable as a Volvo, the XC70 features a fully enclosed grille that echoes the one found on their fully electric vehicles. It’s flanked by split lighting units as well as a lower intake with an active shutter.
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Moving further back, we can see streamlined bodywork and rounded wheel arches. They’re joined by flush-mounted door handles, frameless doors, and an expansive panoramic glass roof. Designers also gave the crossover gloss black and chrome trim as well as 19- to 21-inch wheels.
Rounding out the highlights are plastic body cladding, C-shaped taillights, and an angular rear window. The model also sports matrix LED headlights as well as a rear wiper that is hidden behind the spoiler.
In terms of size, the XC70 measures 189.6 inches (4,815 mm) long, 74.4 inches (1,890 mm) wide, and 65 inches (1,650 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 114 inches (2,895 mm). This means the crossover is 5.4 inches (137 mm) shorter than the XC90 and has a 3.5-inch (89 mm) smaller wheelbase.
The minimalist five-seat cabin features a “timeless Scandinavian design” with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a freestanding 15.4-inch infotainment system. They’re joined by an available 92-inch augmented reality head-up display.
Screens aside, the XC70 has a floating center console with a retractable ‘bridge’ of cup holders. We can also see wood trim, a wireless smartphone charger, and a Harman Kardon audio system.
Other highlights include heated rear seats, ambient lighting, and a tri-zone climate control system with a dedicated rear display. Volvo also mentioned an “AI-powered voice assistant that makes it easy to call friends and family, control the car’s functions, and search for information online.”
We can expect to learn more details closer to launch, but the crossover has a cargo capacity of 14.4 cubic feet (408 liters). However, this can be expanded to 51.4 cubic feet (1,456 liters) by folding the rear seats down.
Designed to appeal to drivers who aren’t ready to go fully electric, the XC70 is being billed as Volvo’s “first long-range plug-in hybrid.” The automaker didn’t release detailed specifications, but the front-wheel drive variant has a combined output of 314 hp (234 kW/ 318 PS) and this enables it to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in eight seconds flat. The model also has a 21.2 kWh battery pack, which delivers a WLTC range of up to 72 miles (116 km).
Customers can also opt for an “ultra-long-range” variant that has an all-wheel drive system producing 456 hp (340 kW / 462 PS). It cuts the 0-62 mph (0-96 km/h) time to 5.3 seconds, while the larger 39.6 kWh battery increases the electric-only range to 112 miles (180 km).
Volvo didn’t say much else about the powertrain, but China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology previously revealed the model has a 1.5-liter engine developing 161 hp (120 kW / 163 PS). This helps the crossover to have a combined range in excess of 745 miles (1,200 km).
When the 39.6 kWh battery is depleted, a DC fast charger can take it from 0% to 80% in approximately 23 minutes. With a 7 kW AC wallbox charger, it can be completely replenished in around 7 hours.
Speaking of charging, the XC70 has a bi-directional charging capability. This enables the crossover to act as a power bank for everything from camping to emergencies.
The model is built on the new Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA) and has “Safe Space Technology.” Buyers will also find “advanced sensing technology, including radars, cameras and sensors” that continuously monitor the vehicle’s surroundings. Volvo didn’t delve into specifics, but mentioned automatic lane change assist, active navigation support, and park pilot assist.
The XC70 is currently available for pre-order in China and pricing starts at ¥446,900 ($62,478 / £46,282 / €53,670). Volvo also has plans to eventually bring the model to Europe, but there’s no word on when.
