Photo: Herranderssvensson / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Volvo XC60
SUV · Hybrid · 41 versions · owner report
Ranked #9 of 22 luxury compact SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (180 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide.
6 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentHigh long-term maintenance and repair costs
Very frequent mention of expensive repairs (e.g., $1,300 for brake hoses, $4,000+ for AC evaporator, $5,000+ for supercharger clutch), with parts and dealership labor cited as exorbitant.
- Very frequentAAOS (Android Automotive) infotainment system problems
Bugs, sluggish performance, system freezes, failed over-the-air updates, apps stopping working, issues that disable connected features like climate control.
- RecurrentReliability concerns with complex powertrains (B6, T8 PHEV)
Supercharger clutch failure predicted between 90,000-120,000 miles; electrical gremlins; high-voltage heater (HVH) failure in PHEVs; expensive hybrid system components (e.g., onboard charger).
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- Recurrent12V battery issues
Batteries failing prematurely or not holding sufficient charge, preventing software updates and causing connectivity problems.
- IsolatedRear seat space limitations
Noted as cramped with child seats installed, restricting front passenger legroom.
- IsolatedPoor rear visibility/night camera
Thick pillars creating blind spots; reversing camera described as appalling in low-light conditions.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" version. Feedback suggests prioritizing simpler, proven powertrains for reliability. The T5 engine is mentioned as having an excellent reputation. For newer models, the T8 Recharge PHEV is noted for its performance but comes with acknowledged complexity. A Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle with the associated extended warranty is frequently recommended as the best value and risk-mitigation strategy.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the BMW X3, Lexus NX, Mazda CX-5, Mazda CX-50 and Acura RDX.
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Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The vehicle is consistently praised for its premium interior feel, comfortable ride, strong safety reputation, and attractive design, with specific engines like the T5 and T6 noted for smoothness and adequate power. However, significant and recurrent criticism is directed at long-term reliability and high ownership costs beyond the warranty period. Concerns are particularly acute for more complex powertrains like the B6 (turbocharged and supercharged) and T8 PHEV, with specific, costly failure points identified. The Google-based Android Automotive (AAOS) infotainment system in newer models (approximately 2022+) is a major source of frustration, cited for bugs, sluggishness, and functionality issues that impact core features like climate control. The consensus indicates high satisfaction for the driving experience and luxury feel within the warranty period, but strong caution regarding long-term ownership due to reliability and cost concerns.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more premium, comfort-oriented alternative to mainstream Japanese SUVs (Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester), offering superior interior ambiance and safety technology but at a higher purchase price and with significantly higher projected maintenance costs. Compared to German rivals like the BMW X3, the XC60 is often viewed as more comfortable and better-equipped for the money but less engaging to drive and with a more problematic infotainment system. Within the Volvo lineup, it is seen as a more practical and affordable alternative to the XC90, though with noted rear-seat space limitations for families.
Recommended configurations
Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) purchase is strongly recommended to secure the extended warranty (cited as 5 years/unlimited miles from original in-service date). An extended warranty is considered essential for long-term ownership plans beyond 5-7 years. For older models (pre-2022), the T5 AWD is recommended for reliability. A pre-purchase inspection, ideally at a Volvo dealership, is emphasized as non-optional. For family use, models with integrated booster seats are noted as a space-saving advantage.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers who prioritize interior luxury, comfort, and safety and plan to own the vehicle primarily within its factory or CPO warranty period (5-7 years). Ideal for those who can negotiate significant discounts on new models or find value in lightly used CPO examples. NOT recommended for buyers seeking the lowest long-term cost of ownership, maximum reliability beyond 100,000 miles, or a flawless, intuitive infotainment experience. Buyers should budget for higher-than-average maintenance and repair costs, with complex components like the supercharger clutch or hybrid system carrying repair bills in the thousands of dollars. A thorough test drive should include evaluation of the AAOS infotainment system's responsiveness and features.
Remarks
Owner feedback spans multiple generations, from the P3 platform (e.g., 2014-2017) to the current SPA platform with AAOS. The reliability critique is pervasive but often attached to specific components: the supercharger in B6/T6 engines, hybrid systems in T8 models, and widespread electrical/software issues in AAOS-equipped vehicles. The CPO warranty is a critical factor in purchase decisions, with owners viewing it as essential for mitigating financial risk. The infotainment criticism represents a stark divide, with owners of older Sensus systems reporting far greater stability. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2021. Years to avoid: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2019, 2018Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Volvo XC60 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 15 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2025 | 38 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2024 | 46 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2023 | 217 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2022 | 370 | 6 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 125 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 89 | 7 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 108 | 8 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 108 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 16 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2016 | 38 | 3 | engine |
| 2015 | 47 | 1 | engine |
| 2014 | 16 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2013 | 66 | 3 | visibility/wiper |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices68 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V282000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, C40, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40 and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2025 · seats:critical fastenerscampaign 25V818000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2026 XC60MHEV, 2018 and 2025 XC60 vehicles. The front seat bolts may have been improperly tightened, resulting in loose bolts.
2025 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V908000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2024 C40BEV, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40, and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2024 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V282000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, C40, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40 and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2024 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V908000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2024 C40BEV, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40, and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2023 · engine and engine cooling:engine:engine control module (ecu/ecm)campaign 22V793000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2022-2023 S60, V60, S90L, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An electronic control module (ECM) software error may prevent the combustion engine from starting, causing a loss of drive power.
2023 · service brakes, hydrauliccampaign 23V012000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 S60, V60, V60CC, V90CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles. A diagnostic error in the Brake Control Module 2 (BCM2) may cause a loss of Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and traction control.
2023 · electrical systemcampaign 23V188000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 S60, V60CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles. A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) may be falsely detected for the emergency call system (e-call) and display "e-Call Service Required" in the driver information module (DIM).
2023 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V282000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, C40, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40 and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2023 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V908000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2024 C40BEV, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40, and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2022 · seat belts:front:retractorcampaign 21V682000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 XC40, XC 40 Recharge, V60CC, V90, V90CC, XC90, and 2021-2022 V60, XC60, S60 vehicles. The seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2022 · engine and engine cooling:engine:engine control module (ecu/ecm)campaign 22V793000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2022-2023 S60, V60, S90L, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An electronic control module (ECM) software error may prevent the combustion engine from starting, causing a loss of drive power.
2022 · steeringcampaign 23V001000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2022 V60CC, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. During steering gear assembly, double screws may have been assembled on top of each other, which can cause a screw to fall into the gearbox housing.
2022 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 25V179000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2020-2021 S90, 2020-2022 S60, V60, XC60, XC90, and 2022 V90 plug-in hybrid vehicles. The high-voltage battery may experience a short circuit within the battery module when the battery is fully charged and the vehicle is parked.
2022 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V282000
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, C40, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40 and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
53 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
2.0 T8 Plug-in Hybrid
Plug-in hybrid · 461 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2026