Volvo XC70 Makes a Comeback as First Extended-Range PHEV with 200km EV Range.
It’s been nearly a decade since Volvo bid farewell to the beloved XC70, a rugged and practical wagon that gained a loyal fan base across the U.S. But in a surprising twist, Volvo is reviving the XC70 nameplate—though this time, it’s not as the wagon enthusiasts fondly recall.
Volvo, now under the ownership of Geely, is set to launch the all-new Volvo XC70 as an SUV in China later this year. While details about its availability in the U.S. remain speculative, there’s hope that the Swedish automaker will expand its reach beyond Asia.
So, what sets this iteration of the Volvo XC70 apart? It’s positioned slightly larger than the current XC60, offering a more spacious interior and advanced hybrid technology.
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Pioneering “Extended-Range” Plug-in Hybrid Technology
The biggest talking point about the new XC70 is its ambitious “extended-range” plug-in hybrid (PHEV) setup. According to Volvo’s claims, this system could deliver an all-electric range of up to 124 miles (200 km)—far surpassing the XC60’s 36-mile EV range in the U.S.
However, it’s important to note that this range estimate comes from China’s CLTC test cycle, known for its optimism. More conservative estimates under EPA standards would likely be lower. Even so, Volvo calls this its first long-range PHEV, built on the brand’s Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA)—a platform that supports fast charging.
There’s speculation that this powertrain will incorporate a range-extender configuration, where the combustion engine works solely as a generator to charge the battery. If true, this could resemble Mazda’s rotary engine approach in the MX-30 or Ram’s upcoming V-6-powered Ramcharger system.
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Volvo XC70: Design & Features
The new Volvo XC70 clearly shows Volvo’s classic design style. It combines sleek looks with the tough feel of an SUV. It is likely a bit longer than the XC60, which is 185.4 inches long. An AWD badge on the back confirms that power will be sent to both wheels.
The front of the car has matrix LED headlights placed below the Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights. The grille looks closed, unlike traditional gas-powered cars. This design is inspired by Volvo’s all-electric models, which help improve cooling and aerodynamics. The roofline is smooth and flows back, while the shoulders are sculpted. The vertical C-shaped taillights are flush with the body and are a common feature on hybrid and electric vehicles.
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Is the New XC70 Coming to the U.S.?
While Volvo has yet to confirm U.S. availability, strong American demand for plug-in hybrids, combined with the brand’s push toward electrification, makes a U.S. launch plausible. If it does make its way stateside, expect a competitive total driving range of around 500 miles (805 km), a compelling feature for buyers seeking efficiency without compromising on long-distance capability.
