Volvo is bringing back a familiar badge from its past, but with a thoroughly modern twist. The XC70 name, once associated with a rugged off-road version of the V70 wagon, is being reintroduced—this time not as a high-riding wagon, but as a mid-size SUV. The original XC70 was discontinued in 2016, and while it earned a reputation for being a versatile, adventure-ready family car, the reborn version reflects the current automotive trends with a focus on electrification and a shift away from traditional wagon formats.
The new XC70 is currently under development with a strong focus on the Chinese market, but Volvo has indicated that there’s potential for it to be offered in other regions in the future. While the vehicle marks Volvo’s entry into what the company describes as the “extended-range plug-in hybrid” segment, it's worth noting that plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are nothing new to Volvo. However, this model sets itself apart by offering an impressive 200 km electric-only range—at least according to the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC). Since the CLTC is known for producing optimistic figures, the actual range in real-world conditions is likely to be somewhat lower. Still, even a conservative estimate suggests the XC70 will offer significantly more electric range than most current PHEVs on the market.
The vehicle will be built on Volvo’s Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA), a flexible platform that supports rapid charging and future electrification needs. While further technical details—such as battery size, motor output, and performance figures—are still under wraps, Volvo has positioned the new XC70 as a bridge for customers who are not quite ready to fully commit to a battery electric vehicle (BEV) but still want meaningful zero-emission driving capabilities.
Design-wise, the new XC70 combines elements from various corners of Volvo’s modern lineup. It is said to be slightly larger and more spacious than the XC60, incorporating visual cues from both the flagship all-electric EX90 and the combustion-powered XC90. At the front, signature “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and a blacked-out grille with active shutters dominate, while the rear end features C-shaped taillights that are neatly integrated into the rear glass. The overall shape appears to be sleeker than the XC90, particularly with its more aggressively raked rear window, giving it a dynamic and modern SUV silhouette.
Volvo's president and CEO, Håkan Samuelsson, highlighted the XC70’s strategic importance: “This model is our way of entering the extended-range plug-in hybrid space. It’s the perfect bridge for consumers moving toward full electrification.” He emphasized that the model is also a reflection of regional market adaptation, as Volvo tailors its offerings to suit different global markets.
More information on the XC70 is expected in the near future as Volvo gears up for a full unveiling. As the industry moves toward more sustainable mobility, the XC70 looks to be a well-balanced offering, providing an appealing middle ground between combustion and electric vehicles for the modern driver.