## The 2027 Volvo EX60: A Bold Leap into the Electric Future, But Does It Deliver?
In the competitive landscape of luxury electric SUVs, Volvo is making a significant play with its latest offering, the **2027 Volvo EX60**. As the Swedish automaker approaches its centennial, the EX60 arrives with the weight of expectation, needing to capture the same magic that made its gasoline-powered sibling, the **2027 Volvo XC60**, a global bestseller. This midsize electric SUV enters a market where innovation is rapid, and consumer preferences are shifting faster than ever. With established players like BMW and Mercedes-Benz ramping up their electric offensive, Volvo needs the EX60 to be more than just another EV; it needs to be a statement of intent. But is Volvo moving too fast in its transition to electrification, or are these progressive steps about to pay dividends?
We had the opportunity to experience a **503-hp** version of the **2027 EX60 P10** at Volvo’s proving grounds in Sweden, offering an early glimpse into what this highly anticipated model might offer. The initial impressions are strong, but as with any new vehicle launch, there are several factors that will ultimately determine its success in the crucial American market.
### Positioning in the EV Hierarchy
Volvo’s electric lineup currently consists of the compact **EX30** and the flagship **EX90**. The EX30, starting below $45,000, is positioned as an accessible entry point into the brand’s EV offerings, while the EX90 commands a premium above $80,000 as a luxurious, three-row electric SUV. The **2027 Volvo EX60** slots neatly into the middle, offering a sensible size and a starting price point around **$60,000** with all-wheel drive. This places it directly against key competitors such as the **BMW iX3** and the **Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology**.
However, the financial calculus for potential buyers becomes more complex when comparing the EX60 to its gasoline counterpart. The **2027 Volvo XC60** offers a similar size and level of luxury but comes with a significantly lower starting price, making the **$9,000 premium** for the electric EX60 a considerable hurdle for many. The success of the EX60 will largely depend on its ability to entice **XC60** owners whose leases are expiring to make the switch to electric. This transition requires not only competitive pricing but also a compelling value proposition that justifies the added cost.
### Design and Aerodynamics: The Battle for Efficiency
Before even stepping inside, the **2027 EX60** makes a contemporary statement with its unique **“wing grip” door handles**, located just below the window line. These stubby handles are a departure from traditional designs and contribute to the vehicle’s sleek, aerodynamic profile. While they are easier to operate than the flush handles found on the Tesla Model Y, they lack the intuitive ease of the XC60’s standard pull-out handles. This design choice highlights the ongoing tension between aesthetics and functionality in electric vehicle development, where every aerodynamic advantage is crucial in the pursuit of longer range.
Inside, the **2027 EX60** offers a stark contrast to its gasoline-powered sibling. Volvo has maintained a similar seating position to the XC60, but the cabin environment is entirely different. The electric architecture allows for a more open and airy feel, thanks to a multifunctional center console that creates a sense of spaciousness. This design element will undoubtedly be a strong selling point in showrooms, offering a visual departure from conventional layouts.
Volvo has managed to create an interior that feels luxurious without succumbing to the extreme minimalism that has characterized some EVs in the past. The dashboard features a **11.4-inch instrument panel display** positioned closer to the windshield than in the EX90, providing the driver with essential information at a glance. Dominating the center stack is a **15.0-inch touchscreen**, which, at long last, is oriented horizontally. This layout facilitates easier interaction with the infotainment system, allowing for more intuitive navigation and control.
While the large touchscreen is a modern necessity, it does come at the cost of physical controls. The reliance on on-screen menus for basic functions, such as adjusting fan speed, requires multiple taps and can be distracting while driving. This raises the question of whether Volvo has gone too far in its pursuit of a minimalist aesthetic, potentially sacrificing user experience for the sake of design.
### Performance and Powertrain Options
Underpinning the **2027 EX60** is a robust electric powertrain that promises exhilarating performance. Even in the mid-range **P10** configuration we experienced, the vehicle demonstrates remarkable acceleration. The **503 hp** available in this model delivers more than sufficient passing power, providing a “watch this” demonstrator for passengers. The claimed 0-60 mph time of **4.4 seconds** places the EX60 firmly in the realm of high-performance vehicles, challenging the notion that family-oriented SUVs need to sacrifice excitement for practicality.
What is particularly noteworthy is that both the standard and performance driving modes deliver the same 503 hp. Unlike some EVs that reserve full power for specific drive modes or temporary boost functions, Volvo has integrated this capability into the core performance of the EX60 P10.
Looking further up the lineup, the **base EX60 P6** model will offer a more modest, yet still respectable, **369 hp**, with a 0-60 mph time of **5.7 seconds**. For those seeking ultimate performance, the upcoming **EX60 P12** is slated to deliver a staggering **670 hp**, promising a 0-60 mph sprint in just **3.8 seconds**. While faster electric SUVs certainly exist, these figures are undeniably impressive for a vehicle positioned in the luxury SUV segment.
A key concern with some early EV models has been a delay in throttle response, particularly in the **2025 EX90**. However, during our ride-along in the **2027 EX60 P10**, we did not experience the same brief wide-open throttle delay, suggesting that Volvo has addressed these initial software and calibration issues. The ultimate test, of course, will be a comprehensive testing regimen to evaluate the vehicle’s performance in real-world conditions.
### Handling and Ride Dynamics: A Balance of Sport and Comfort
The **2027 EX60** features a revised steering system with a **10 percent quicker ratio** compared to the XC60. This modification, similar to the approach taken by Tesla to enhance agility, allows for more responsive handling and requires less steering wheel input for tight maneuvers. While this contributes to a sportier feel, it remains to be seen how this will affect long-distance comfort and high-speed stability.
Volvo has also adopted a multi-faceted approach to **regenerative braking**, offering four distinct modes to cater to different driving preferences. The system provides standard braking feel with minimal regen, a light mode that gradually brings the vehicle to a smooth stop, a more aggressive mode for drivers accustomed to the strong regen of vehicles like Rivian, and an auto mode that adjusts based on the behavior of surrounding vehicles. This level of choice is commendable, allowing drivers to personalize their experience and find the right balance of efficiency and control. Based on our initial assessment, the system appears to be well-tuned and responsive.
The cabin environment was notably quiet during our test ride, a testament to Volvo’s extensive work on noise reduction. Even with the **22-inch wheels** wrapped in summer tires, the interior remained remarkably hushed. Owners transitioning from non-PHEV **XC60** models will find the EX60 exceptionally quiet by comparison.
Ride quality also appeared to be well-managed, with the suspension effectively isolating the cabin from road imperfections while still providing a sense of connection to the road. However, it is important to note that U.S.-spec models will be equipped with **all-season tires**, which could alter the ride and handling balance compared to the summer tires used in our test vehicle. This is a critical factor to consider, as tire choice can significantly impact both ride comfort and dynamic performance.
For the time being, only the later-release **2028 EX60 Cross Country** will be available with Volvo’s advanced air suspension system. The **EX60 P10** we experienced featured traditional suspension with **three distinct settings** for both steering and suspension. These settings can be adjusted through the vehicle’s infotainment system, allowing drivers to customize their experience. We found that the differences between the softest and firmest suspension settings were noticeable, enabling drivers to tailor the ride to their preference and then leave it there for subsequent drives.
### What Does the Future Hold?
Our initial experience riding in the **2027 EX60 P10** at Volvo’s testing facility in Sweden suggests that this electric luxury SUV holds significant promise. The vehicle’s contemporary design, luxurious interior, and impressive performance capabilities position it as a strong contender in the evolving EV market. However, several questions remain that will only be answered when we have the opportunity to conduct a full road test on U.S.-spec models with all-season tires.
The impact of the all-season tires on ride and handling, as well as the performance of the **22-inch wheels** over rougher American roads, will be critical factors in determining the overall driving experience. Furthermore, the long-term reliability and software performance of the **2027 EX60** will be closely watched, given the technical
