Volvo XC70 production begins in China, pre-sales to start at Chengdu Auto Show

KUALA LUMPUR: Volvo has started production of its all-new XC70 at the brand’s Taizhou plant, with pre-sales scheduled to begin at the Chengdu Auto Show on August 27, 2025.

Positioned as a luxury D-segment SUV, the XC70 is built on Volvo’s SMA Super Hybrid Architecture and sits between the XC60 and XC90 in the company’s lineup.

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The XC70 measures 4,815 mm long, 1,890 mm wide, and 1,650 mm tall, with a 2,895 mm wheelbase. Its design follows Volvo’s latest electric and hybrid family look, adopting a closed-off front fascia similar to the EX90. The familiar “Thor’s Hammer” LED daytime running lights remain, paired with high and low beam headlights.

Other exterior features include flush door handles, frameless doors, frameless mirrors, and aerodynamic wheels, all aimed at improving efficiency. At the rear, Volvo’s signature “Viking Axe” taillights return, combined with vertical LED strips for strong recognition. The rear wiper is neatly hidden under the roofline for a cleaner design.

Hybrid powertrain and range

Built on the SMA Super Hybrid platform, the XC70 is Volvo’s first extended-range plug-in hybrid. It promises an electric-only range of over 200 km, a combined driving range of 1,200 km, and fuel consumption of 5.85L/100 km under WLTC conditions when the battery runs out.

The system consists of:

• A 1.5T plug-in hybrid-specific engine (120 kW, 255 Nm, 44% thermal efficiency, Miller cycle, high-pressure direct injection)

• Three electric motors:

  • P1 motor (60 kW) – for power generation and starting

  • P2 front axle motor (107 kW) – primary drive motor

  • P4 rear axle motor (156 kW) – supports AWD when required

• A 3-speed DHT hybrid transmission, which allows the engine to engage direct drive from as low as 20 km/h (versus 60 km/h in most single-gear PHEVs).

This complex 3-motor, 3-speed setup enables seven different hybrid driving modes, adjusting power delivery depending on conditions and driver input.

Market and Pricing

According to CarNewsChina, the XC70 is expected to be priced at around 360,000 yuan (roughly RM234,000). While China will be the initial launch market, Volvo has hinted at expanding availability to other regions later.

Volvo’s Strategy and CEO’s Comment

Speaking on the XC70’s role in the brand’s portfolio, Volvo Cars CEO Håkan Samuelsson said:

“The XC70 marks our strategic entry into the extended-range plug-in hybrid segment, a perfect bridge to full electrification. It enables us to maintain and develop a balanced product portfolio, while offering a highly attractive alternative to customers who are not yet ready for fully electric cars. This is also an example of regionalisation, where we adapt to the local market needs.”

Design Details

The XC70 continues Volvo’s Scandinavian design philosophy with a modern twist. It features:

• A shield-like closed grille with active shutters to improve aerodynamics and efficiency

• Updated Thor’s Hammer headlights with Matrix LED tech, automatically adjusting to traffic and road conditions

• A sweeping roofline and sculpted shoulder for a dynamic silhouette

• C-shaped taillights integrated into the rear glass, enhancing aerodynamics and visual identity

A name with legacy

The XC70 badge is a revival of a well-known Volvo model. The original XC70 was an adventurous estate-based crossover, derived from the V70. This new SUV carries the same spirit of versatility but with a modern focus on plug-in hybrid technology, longer range, and premium comfort.

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