Volvo EX60 P10 AWD: interior, design and features review
The Volvo XC60 has been one of the Swedish manufacturer's most important models for years and is currently its best-selling vehicle globally, so the introduction of a fully electric alternative is naturally a big deal. We had the opportunity to check out the new EX60 and will soon get behind the wheel of one for a proper driving review.
Volvo introduced the XC60 back in 2008 and is now expanding its midsize SUV lineup with the fully electric EX60. It doesn't directly replace the XC60, which remains on sale with internal combustion and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Instead, the EX60 expands Volvo's presence in this competitive market segment and pioneers the company's new SPA3 platform.
The EX60 lineup currently consists of three versions. The entry-level Volvo EX60 P6 uses a single electric motor driving the rear wheels and an 80 kWh battery, promising up to 620 km of WLTP range and a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds.
The Volvo EX60 P10 AWD we had the opportunity to explore increases the output to 510 hp and 524 lb-ft of torque, while its 91 kWh usable battery capacity provides up to 660 km of WLTP range.
Sitting at the top of the lineup is the Volvo EX60 P12 AWD, which receives a larger 112 kWh battery and promises an impressive 810 km of range. It is also the speediest version of the EX60, rated to complete a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in a mere 3.9 seconds.
Our first impression is that the EX60 is a very well-rounded vehicle. The build quality is excellent, the materials throughout the cabin feel pleasant, and there are plenty of modern features. It doesn't try to reinvent what a Volvo should be, but instead brings the familiar formula into the electric era with more technology, performance and refinement.
Exterior
Volvo's signature minimalist design philosophy is clearly reflected in the EX60. Clean surfaces, subtle lines and minimal use of sharp edges give the exterior a cohesive, almost monolithic appearance. Tight and consistent panel gaps further reinforce this impression, contributing to the vehicle's solid and refined overall presence.
The front is instantly recognizable as a Volvo thanks to the "Thor's hammer" headlights and signature emblem in the middle. The lack of a front grille hints that it's an EV-only model, and the only air intake is a small active opening flap down low, which is meant to provide cooling for the batteries.
The side profile maintains the same minimalist approach. Even the door handles are barely noticeable, taking the form of small push-operated elements positioned beneath the side windows.
Volvo's frameless side mirrors further enhance the clean exterior design, while the frameless doors preserve the sleek appearance even when opened.
The wheels of the test unit were giant 22-inch units, which complete the exterior look but inevitably tax comfort and range. For people who don't care as much about looks, 20- and 21-inch options are available.
The rear is unmistakably Volvo, with vertically oriented taillights and large Volvo lettering stretching across the tailgate.
One notable exception to the minimalist design is the rear wiper. Rather than being concealed beneath the spoiler, it is prominently mounted at the bottom of the rear window, slightly disrupting the otherwise sleek and uncluttered appearance.
All the EX60 versions can look identical on the outside, and the only differentiator is a small plaque underneath the model name that signals the variant. The nondescript model badge makes the two more powerful P10 and P12 variants perfect sleepers for those who enjoy the occasional stoplight pull.
Interior
Volvo interiors are renowned for their simplicity and excellent build quality, and the EX60 continues that tradition. High-quality materials are used throughout the cabin, while every surface and control feels solid and carefully assembled.
Whether the minimalist design is appealing ultimately comes down to personal preference. We appreciate the clean and restrained atmosphere, though some buyers may find it too cold or soulless. Either way, the EX60 remains an impressively refined and well-constructed place to spend time in.
The steering wheel has an unorthodox shape that doesn't feel natural to hold, but we'll test if that's also the case while driving when we soon get to test the EX60 in the real world.
The buttons on the steering wheel have multiple purposes depending on the menu. If you've spent some time in any Volvo model of the past decade, the controls will be familiar, but otherwise, they need some getting used to.
The stalks for the turn signals and the gear lever don't look inspiring, yet when you touch them, they feel solid and offer nice feedback. It is very important for such a frequently used part to be well-made and we're glad Volvo hasn't neglected its importance.
The steering rack is well made
In the demo mode, it didn't allow for any changes on the gauge cluster display, but we're hoping it is at least somewhat configurable and not as dim as it was in the showroom.
The Bowers and Wilkins stereo system is a focal point of the entire interior. A total of 28 speakers are carefully positioned throughout the cabin to create an immersive listening experience that should satisfy even demanding audiophiles. A circular speaker in the middle of the dashboard complements the minimalist cabin design while proudly showcasing the brand responsible for the impressive sound quality.
The center display is a 15" touchscreen that sticks out to ease its operation. It works well and controls virtually all functions of the Volvo EX60.
A large crystal control knob sits beneath the central display, flanked by two physical buttons. The controls operate the audio system and serve as one of the cabin's visual highlights, combining elegant design with a satisfying tactile feel.
The lower section of the dashboard incorporates two generous storage areas. The upper compartment houses a wireless charging pad alongside an additional storage tray and two USB-C charging ports.
Below it sits a large retractable tray that provides ample space for personal items. It can be folded away when not needed, keeping its contents hidden and preserving the cabin's clean and minimalist appearance.
The center console offers great versatility. It can either have all compartments closed, allowing you to store large items like backpacks between the front seats or have two retractable cupholders in place for your drinks and a smaller storage space.
The armrest doesn't lift or move, but that is hardly a problem given all the other compartments inside the cabin of the Volvo EX60.
The door cards of the EX60 are just as minimalist as the rest of the vehicle. There are only the window switches and the door lockers, all of which are part of the door release button assembly.
Mounted on the ceiling is a row of important buttons like the hazard and reading lights. Given that Volvo is a Swedish brand that is often faced with extremely cold weather, there is also a window heater button that turns on the heated front and rear windows simultaneously, which is a brilliant feature we'd enjoy in more vehicles.
The panoramic roof doesn't open and doesn't have a dedicated sunshade. However, it's made of electrochromatic glass so it can go from transparent to opaque and vice versa with the press of a button.
You choose how transparent the roof is
The seats are ventilated and offer wonderful grip. They are comfortable to spend time in and can be adjusted with precision.
The second row doesn't skimp on comfort. The seats are heated, there's separate climate control, and two USB-C charging ports.
There is also an interesting cutout for a smartphone in the rear seat backs, as well as two large cup holders in the armrest.
Space is very generous in the second row, which allows for comfortable travel for larger adults, as well as for easily mounting a child seat of any size.
Lots of options for the rear passengers
Storage and practicality
The trunk of the Volvo EX60 is massive and offers clever tricks for storing differently sized items. With a volume of 22.4 ft³, it is significantly bigger than the conventionally powered Volvo XC60. It also offers more volume than its immediate rivals, the Mercedes GLC and BMW iX3, and that is very important for the segment.
Thanks to buttons in the trunk, you don't have to walk around the car to fold the rear seats down, but you have to do it to get them back up. It is also the place from where the tow hitch can be automatically controlled.
Interestingly, rear passengers can fold the rear seats from their door cards, right next to the window controls and door opening button, which will likely cause problems when kids use those doors or someone simply doesn't pay enough attention and suddenly ends up with a folded seat.
Underneath the main storage floor is a compartment that can be opened in two parts for easier access. On the smaller side, there is a bucket with different volume measurements and cool graphics of a boy and girl going to the beach.
Clever and interesting storage area
The frunk (front trunk) volume of the Volvo EX60 is only 2.05 ft³, which is quite less than that of the Mercedes GLC, but on the other hand, the difference in trunk size evens things out.
Technology
As its newest model, Volvo has invested heavily in making the EX60 technologically advanced and up to date. It isn't revolutionary, but it utilizes existing features in an improved manner. The Google-based infotainment guarantees frequent updates and seamless connectivity between external devices through cloud services.
Sadly, all of the climate controls are hidden in a menu, but the main controls like fan speed and temperature stay at the bottom of the screen at all times.
The wing mirrors are also controlled through the screen and then via the steering wheel, which might be more irritating than a regular switch.
As far as the infotainment goes, there aren't many quirks or unprecedented capabilities.
Most of the interesting settings control the driving experience and the driver assistants, which we'll try once we get our hands on a road-legal test unit of the Volvo EX60.
Verdict
Volvo has built a solid reputation in the world of midsize SUVs, and the EX60 successfully carries that experience into the electric era. It combines the technology, practicality and premium qualities required to compete with the strongest models in its class.
Its minimalist philosophy will inevitably divide opinion, attracting buyers who appreciate clean and restrained design while potentially alienating those seeking a more expressive vehicle. Initial impressions also suggest that overall quality is among the best in the segment, strengthening its position against direct rivals.
We look forward to testing the EX60 in real-world conditions to see whether these positive first impressions carry over to everyday driving. Until then, it appears well positioned to become one of the most compelling offerings in the increasingly competitive midsize electric SUV market.
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