Volvo has given its big-selling XC60 SUV a refresh for the 2021 model year, and the big news is that it's getting the clever Android-based infotainment system from the Polestar 2 electric car and the Volvo XC40 Recharge EV.
Personalisation and connectivity
Volvo claims that the Android-based infotainment offers "unprecedented personalisation and an unparalleled connectivity" and that it comes with built-in Google Assistant, Google Maps navigation, and in-car apps supplied through the Google Play store. Volvo will offer buyers a new 'Digital Services' package option to make sure that the software gets used to its maximum, and that includes always-on wireless internet connection.
A big seller for Volvo
It's a major addition to the XC60, which has been Volvo's top-selling model since 2009, with 1.68 million sales worldwide since it was first introduced. It's currently the best-selling medium-sized premium SUV in Europe, and still has the World Car of the Year trophy, from 2018, sitting on its shelf.
In terms of safety upgrades, the XC60 now comes equipped with Volvo's latest 'Advanced Driver Assistance Systems' (ADAS) sensor platform - a modern, scalable active safety system that consists of an array of radars, cameras and ultrasonic sensors. That allows the XC60 to detect other road users - cars, cyclists, pedestrians - and either slam on the brakes to avoid a collision, or in extremis even haul on the steering to prevent one.
Small exterior changes
There have also been some small detail changes to the XC60's exterior, including a new grille, new front bumpers, and new exterior colour and wheel options, but you'll have to be a card-carrying member of the Volvo Anorak Society to be able to spot those.
There have been some small interior tweaks too, including the addition of vegan-friendly leather-free options. Production of the updated XC60 will start in May, and the new versions will be on sale shortly after that.