## 2027 Volvo EX60: The Electric Midsize SUV That Could Redefine Volvo’s Future
For a brand on the cusp of its centennial, the path forward is rarely smooth. Volvo, a name synonymous with safety and Scandinavian design for nearly a century, finds itself at a critical juncture. The all-new 2027 Volvo EX60, a midsize electric SUV, isn’t just another model in the lineup; it’s a statement of intent, a vehicle carrying the weight of the brand’s reputation as it navigates the choppy waters of the EV transition.
The shadow of the EX90, Volvo’s flagship electric SUV, still looms large. Its much-publicized software glitches and launch delays served as a cautionary tale, raising questions about the brand’s readiness to compete in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape. Against this backdrop, the EX60 emerges not just as a successor to the gas-powered XC60, Volvo’s perennial best-seller, but as a litmus test for the company’s technological prowess and strategic vision.
The global market in 2026 is a battleground where legacy automakers are scrambling to keep pace with Tesla’s dominance while fending off aggressive new entrants from China. In this high-stakes environment, the 2027 Volvo EX60 must strike a delicate balance: offering enough innovation to excite early adopters while retaining the familiarity and comfort that have endeared the XC60 to millions.
We had the opportunity to experience the EX60 firsthand at Volvo’s proving grounds in Sweden, sampling a 503-horsepower performance variant that offered a tantalizing glimpse into the vehicle’s potential. The question on everyone’s mind: can this electric newcomer overcome the ghosts of launches past and deliver the seamless, premium experience Volvo customers expect?
### Decoding the EX60 Lineup
Volvo’s EV strategy has, until now, positioned the EX30 and EX90 as distinct bookends of its electric portfolio. The EX30, a compact city-dweller starting below $45,000, carved out a niche with its bold design and accessible pricing. The EX90, a three-row behemoth commanding north of $80,000, represents Volvo’s bid for the luxury family hauler crown.
The 2027 Volvo EX60 slots neatly into the middle, offering a more conventional midsize SUV footprint that directly challenges the likes of the BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz EQ-equipped GLC. With a starting price around $60,000 for the all-wheel-drive configuration, it occupies a competitive space, albeit one that demands a premium over its gasoline-powered sibling, the XC60. This $9,000 price gap is a significant hurdle, one that the EX60 must overcome with compelling features and a superior ownership experience.
At the heart of the EX60’s value proposition lies its ambitious EPA-estimated range of up to 400 miles on a single charge. In an era where range anxiety remains a persistent barrier to EV adoption, this figure is a powerful statement. However, the most critical metric for Volvo’s success won’t be its range on paper, but its ability to convert existing XC60 owners into EV adopters when their leases expire.
### First Impressions: Design and Interior Sanctuary
Even before stepping inside, the 2027 Volvo EX60 signals its modern intentions. The vehicle eschews traditional door handles for a contemporary “wing grip” design, recessed just below the window line. While visually striking and contributing to the EX60’s aerodynamic efficiency, these handles present a minor usability trade-off. They are easier to operate than the flush-mounted Tesla Model Y handles but lack the intuitive functionality of the XC60’s pull-out levers. In the quest for every mile of range, these design choices underscore Volvo’s commitment to pushing the envelope.
The interior architecture represents a significant departure from the gas-powered XC60. While maintaining a similar seating position for driver familiarity, the cabin of the EX60 is a masterclass in modern Scandinavian design. Volvo has eschewed the stark minimalism that has plagued some EV interiors, instead crafting a space that feels both airy and luxurious. The absence of a traditional transmission tunnel thanks to the skateboard architecture creates a sense of openness, particularly in the center console area.
The dashboard is dominated by a horizontally oriented 15.0-inch touchscreen, a welcome departure from the portrait-style displays that have characterized recent Volvo models. This shift allows for more natural interaction with the infotainment system, which is powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS. The integration of Google Assistant means that voice commands are not just an afterthought but a central feature of the user experience. A quick query about local barbecue wing recipes for the upcoming weekend’s big game seamlessly integrates with the navigation and entertainment systems.
Yet, even in this technologically advanced environment, there’s a case to be made for more physical controls. While the large central screen is undeniably beautiful and capable, the reliance on touch for basic climate functions can be a distraction. The need to navigate through multiple on-screen menus to adjust fan speed, for instance, interrupts the flow of driving. There are moments when a simple, tactile button is simply more effective, especially when a favorite song is playing and the driver doesn’t want to break the mood with a voice command.
### On the Road: Performance and Driving Dynamics
Our initial experience in the 503-horsepower EX60 P10 variant was nothing short of exhilarating. Even from the passenger seat, the sheer force of the dual-motor all-wheel-drive system is palpable. A few deliberate jabs of the throttle demonstrate the instant torque characteristic of electric powertrains, launching the SUV forward with a surge that feels both effortless and addictive.
Unlike some performance EVs that can feel twitchy or overly aggressive, the EX60’s power delivery, even in this top-tier specification, remains composed and confidence-inspiring. The 4.4-second 0-60 mph time is squarely in sports car territory, providing a “watch this” factor that will undoubtedly impress passengers.
Interestingly, Volvo has opted for a straightforward approach to its performance settings. Both the standard and performance driving modes utilize the full 503 horsepower output. There are no artificial power boosts or temporary overboost functions that require a specific driving mode. This ensures that drivers have access to the vehicle’s full potential whenever they desire, a refreshing change from systems that meter out performance in short bursts.
For those seeking more extreme acceleration, the EX60 lineup will also include the P12 model, a later addition expected to deliver a staggering 670 horsepower and a sub-4-second 0-60 mph time. This positions the EX60 not just as a family SUV but as a legitimate performance contender capable of rivaling dedicated sports cars.
The steering system has also received a significant update for the EX60. The rack-and-pinion setup features a ratio that is 10 percent quicker than that of the XC60, sharpening the vehicle’s responsiveness. This adjustment makes tight maneuvers, such as parking lot navigation or U-turns, require less steering wheel input, enhancing the feeling of agility. It’s a design philosophy that mirrors Tesla’s approach to creating a sporty, direct steering feel, although Volvo’s execution aims to maintain a level of refinement that Tesla sometimes sacrifices.
### Customizing the EV Experience
One of the most impressive aspects of the 2027 Volvo EX60 is the level of customization offered to the driver, particularly concerning its regenerative braking system. Volvo recognizes that EV driving preferences vary widely among consumers, and the EX60 provides a range of options to cater to these individual tastes.
Drivers can select from several distinct one-pedal driving experiences. The standard setting offers a familiar feel with minimal regenerative braking, allowing for a more traditional coasting sensation. For those accustomed to the efficiency of heavy regen, a light one-pedal mode is available, gradually bringing the vehicle to a stop without requiring the use of the brake pedal.
More aggressive drivers will appreciate the enhanced regenerative braking mode, which is reminiscent of the setup found in Rivian vehicles. This mode maximizes energy recuperation, allowing for near-complete control of the vehicle’s speed using only the accelerator pedal. Finally, an auto mode analyzes the behavior of vehicles ahead and adjusts the regenerative braking intensity accordingly, providing a seamless and intelligent driving experience. This freedom of choice is a significant advantage, empowering drivers to tailor the EX60 to their specific preferences rather than forcing them into a single, predefined mode.
Beyond the powertrain, Volvo has invested heavily in the vehicle’s acoustic properties. The EX60 cabin is remarkably quiet, a testament to the engineering efforts made to insulate occupants from road and wind noise. Even with the large 22-inch wheels and summer tires fitted to our test vehicle, the interior remained hushed. For drivers transitioning from a non-plug-in hybrid XC60, the difference in noise levels will be immediately apparent, with the EV offering a serene sanctuary.
The ride quality, based on our limited passenger experience, is also commendable. The suspension effectively isolates the cabin from road imperfections, providing a comfortable and composed ride. However, it’s important to note that the U.S.-spec models will come equipped with all-season tires, which may alter the ride and handling characteristics compared to the summer tires used in our test. This is a common trade-off in the automotive industry, balancing the demand for year-round usability with the performance potential of specialized tires.
The availability of air suspension, a feature often associated with luxury vehicles, will be limited to the later-release
