Volvo XC60 overtakes iconic 240 to become best-selling model in history

The transformation of family transport is encapsulated in the remarkable journey of the Volvo XC60.

With over 2.7 million units sold since its debut in 2008, this mid-size SUV has surpassed the legendary Volvo 240, solidifying its position as the best-selling Volvo model of all time.

This shift not only marks a milestone for the brand but also underlines the changing preferences of consumers in the modern automotive landscape.

Initially launched as a European-exclusive model, the XC60 expanded its footprint by becoming the first Volvo to be manufactured in China, thus responding to local market demands.

The model’s appeal lies in its seamless blend of safety, premium driving experience, and impeccable quality—a combination lauded by drivers across the globe.

In 2018, its excellence was acknowledged when it was named World Car of the Year, a testament to its unmatched capabilities.

The latest generation of the XC60 introduces cutting-edge plug-in hybrid drivetrains, further enhancing its appeal. Notably, it was the best-selling plug-in hybrid in Europe last year, signaling a significant shift towards electrification among consumers.

As Volvo Cars moves towards a sustainable automotive future, the XC60 remains at the forefront, bridging the gap between traditional combustion engines and electric vehicles.

According to Susanne Hägglund, head of Global Offer at Volvo Cars, “Growing up in Sweden in the 1980s, the Volvo 240 was the iconic family car – you could spot one in almost every driveway.

Today the XC60 has taken over that position in two ways. Not only as the family favourite, but also becoming our all-time top-seller.”

The perfect family car

For families seeking a confident and versatile vehicle, the XC60 stands out. It merges cutting-edge safety features with Scandinavian aesthetics and SUV functionality, establishing itself as a cornerstone of Volvo’s proud tradition.

Where the Volvo 240 once dominated as the family car due to its robust safety qualities, the XC60, with its modern updates, reflects a clear evolution in consumer expectations.

Many families who once cherished the Volvo 240 are now opting for the XC60, fostering new memories for a generation that values modern safety combined with practicality.

The legacy of safety initiated by the 240 is strongly echoed in the XC60, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

A shared legacy of safety

The Volvo 240, launched in 1974, set new standards for automotive safety with its innovative body design featuring crumple zones and a reinforced passenger compartment.

This early commitment to safety continues to resonate today, with the XC60 introducing advanced safety technologies that are now standard in modern vehicles.

Notably, it was the XC60 that pioneered City Safety—an automatic emergency braking system designed to forestall or mitigate low-speed collisions, a feature that has since become commonplace.

Additionally, its Oncoming Lane Mitigation system serves as a testament to Volvo’s ongoing legacy, providing drivers peace of mind by preventing unintentional lane departures into oncoming traffic.

With the refreshed XC60, Volvo once again asserts itself as a leader in automotive safety innovation, boasting a design that prioritises the protection of its occupants while remaining at the cutting edge of technology.

Towards a greener future

The XC60 not only excels in safety and comfort but also plays a pivotal role in Volvo’s electrification strategy.

The latest updates are geared towards a sustainable future, offering consumers the best of both worlds through its plug-in hybrid capabilities.

Data shows that around half of the driving distance covered by Volvo’s latest plug-in hybrids is powered solely by electricity, a clear indicator of the brand's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

The refreshed XC60, with its modern design and intuitive user experience, is set to continue shaping the market landscape while honouring the legacy of one of the most beloved family cars in history.

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