2010 Volvo XC60: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2010 Volvo XC60

The biggest change for 2010 was the XC60 itself: this was the all-new crossover’s first U.S. model year. It launched with two six-cylinder engines, standard low-speed automatic braking, and a sportier R-Design model that arrived midyear.

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About the 2010 Volvo XC60

1st generation XC60 (2009-2017 globally), first U.S. model year; all-new launch year with a midyear R-Design addition.

Volvo positioned the XC60 as a small premium utility that mixed coupe-like styling with everyday SUV usefulness and a strong safety focus. Its core appeal was giving buyers an easier-to-park, more design-focused alternative to larger luxury SUVs without giving up cargo flexibility, supportive seating, or bad-weather confidence. Compared with many rivals, the XC60 leaned more heavily on standard safety technology and calm, practical comfort than on outright sportiness.

The 3.2 served as the well-equipped entry model, with a naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine, supportive seating, and standard phone and audio connectivity. The turbocharged T6 added AWD, leather seating, and stronger performance, while the midyear R-Design paired that turbo engine with firmer suspension tuning, quicker steering, sport seats, and 20-inch wheels.

What changed, by category

Structural
The XC60 made its U.S. debut as an all-new small luxury crossover.
Powertrain
The lineup launched with a naturally aspirated 3.2-liter inline-six and a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. Both used a six-speed automatic transmission, and the T6 and R-Design had AWD.
Styling
The XC60 introduced a new crossover body and interior design to Volvo’s U.S. range. The midyear R-Design had distinct exterior and cabin trim, sport seats, and 20-inch wheels.
Safety
City Safety low-speed automatic braking was standard across the lineup.
Tech
Bluetooth hands-free calling and an audio system with HD Radio, USB, and AUX connections were standard across the lineup.

2010 Volvo XC60 specs and features by trim

Feature
2010 Volvo XC60T60 in stock
2010 Volvo XC603.20 in stock
2010 Volvo XC60R-Design0 in stock
Engine6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter6-Cyl, 3.2 Liter / 6-Cyl, PZEV, 3.2 Liter6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter
TransmissionAutomatic, 6-Spd GeartronicAutomatic, 6-Spd GeartronicAutomatic, 6-Spd Geartronic
DrivetrainAWD2WDAWD
Fuel TypeGasGasGas
MPG City16 mpg18 mpg16 mpg
MPG Highway21 mpg27 mpg21 mpg
Horsepower281 hp225–235 hp281 hp
Torque295 lb-ft221–236 lb-ft295 lb-ft
Max Towing3300 lb3300 lb3300 lb
Trunk/Cargo67.4 cu-ft67.4 cu-ft67.4 cu-ft
Rear Legroom36.4 in36.4 in36.4 in
Seats555
Doors444
Adaptive Cruise Control
Adaptive Headlights
Alarm System
Automatic Emergency Braking
Blindspot Sensors
Hill Descent Control
Lane Departure Warning
Rear View Camera
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
HID Headlights
Panorama Moon Roof
Privacy Glass
Roof Rails
Side Steps
Trailer Hitch Receiver
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
USB Ports
Dual Power Front Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Power Driver Seat
Rear Window Shades
Remote Start
Wood Interior Trim

How the 2011 Volvo XC60 compares

The most important change for the 2011 Volvo XC60 is stronger engine output across the lineup. Volvo also added the turbocharged T6 R-Design, while the rest of the vehicle received only light updates.

Frequently asked questions

Was the 2010 Volvo XC60 a new model?

Yes. The 2010 XC60 was an all-new model and the crossover’s first model year in the United States.

What engines did the 2010 Volvo XC60 have?

The 2010 XC60 had two six-cylinder engines: a naturally aspirated 3.2-liter in the 3.2 model and a turbocharged 3.0-liter in the T6 and R-Design. Every version used a six-speed automatic transmission, while the T6 and R-Design had AWD.

Did the 2010 Volvo XC60 have automatic emergency braking?

Yes. Every 2010 XC60 had City Safety, a system designed to brake automatically at low speeds when it detected an imminent collision.

What was different about the 2010 XC60 R-Design?

The 2010 R-Design was the sportier XC60 and arrived midyear. It combined the turbocharged six-cylinder engine and AWD with firmer suspension tuning, quicker steering, sport seats, unique trim, and 20-inch wheels.

How did the 2010 XC60 3.2 differ from the T6?

The 3.2 used a naturally aspirated 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine, while the T6 used a stronger turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder and had AWD. The T6 also had leather seating and a power-adjustable front passenger seat.