Captioned simply “March 7, 2017. 10:45am CET,” the 2018 XC60 is due for a full reveal just before the Geneva International Motor Show next month.
Predictably, the teaser photo shows very little, although the headlights feature Volvo-signature “Thor’s Hammer” LED lighting. The T-shaped LED light pipes were first introduced on the luxurious 2016 Volvo XC90, then repeated on the 2017 S90 sedan and V90 wagon. For the 2018 XC60, the lighting elements extend all the way to the upright Volvo grille, which features a large Iron Mark logo in the center. The Volvo-specific styling elements will help the XC60 stand out from its peers.
We don’t know too many specifics about the 2018 Volvo XC60, but we hear it will move to the company’s Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), a platform that currently underpins the XC90, S90, and V90. SPA is designed such that individual elements of the platform can be swapped out, making it flexible enough for much of Volvo’s lineup. The benefit of this is that Volvo can design and build its vehicles using similar powertrain and suspension components, and on the same production line too.
That makes us think the XC60 will be available with both of the company’s forced-induction 2.0L I-4 engines. Expect a turbocharged four making between 240 and 260 hp and a turbo- and supercharged four with at least 300 hp. A hybrid variant is also possible, as SPA is designed with provisions for large battery packs. As on the current XC60 and XC90, both front- and all-wheel drive will likely be available.
Using SPA will also help the company price the XC60 aggressively, since some of its development costs have already been amoritized by the more expensive 90-Series Volvos. Expect a base price of around $41,000 when the XC60 makes its way to U.S. dealers, possibly by the end of the year. Given Volvo’s recent styling and luxury streak, we’re looking forward to seeing the XC60 in full.
