2011 Volvo XC60: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
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.
About the 2011 Volvo XC60
1st generation XC60 (2010-2017 in the US), second model year.
Volvo positioned the XC60 as a small premium utility that mixed SUV practicality and ground clearance with a sleeker, more car-like shape than many rivals. Its biggest differentiator was safety, especially standard City Safety low-speed automatic braking, paired with comfortable front seats and a clean Scandinavian-style cabin. Most buyers chose it for secure everyday driving, useful cargo space, and upscale design rather than for maximum sportiness, unless they stepped up to the T6 or R-Design versions.
For 2011, the 3.2 serves as the straightforward XC60, with a 240-horsepower six-cylinder engine, City Safety low-speed automatic braking, and a comfortable equipment mix. The T6 is the quicker, more upscale version, pairing a 300-horsepower turbocharged six with AWD, leather upholstery, and a panoramic glass roof. R-Design models add sportier body details, firmer suspension tuning, quicker steering, and sport-themed seats, with the new T6 R-Design sitting at the top of the lineup.
What changed, by category
2011 Volvo XC60 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.2 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 18 mpg | 17 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 24 mpg | 22 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 240 hp | 300 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft | 325 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3300 lb | 3300 lb | 3300 lb | 3300 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 67.4 cu-ft | 67.4 cu-ft | 67.4 cu-ft | 67.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.4 in | 36.4 in | 36.4 in | 36.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Adaptive Headlights | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| 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 | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2011 Volvo XC60?
The biggest change is stronger engine output throughout the lineup. The 3.2 rose to 240 horsepower, while the turbocharged T6 increased to 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque.
Did the 2011 Volvo XC60 add a new R-Design model?
Yes. The turbocharged T6 R-Design joined the lineup for 2011, combining 300 horsepower and AWD with firmer suspension tuning, quicker steering, sport seats, and distinctive exterior details.
Was the 2011 XC60 3.2 R-Design an entirely new trim?
No. The 2010 R-Design continued under the more specific 3.2 R-Design name for 2011. The truly new R-Design addition was the turbocharged T6 R-Design.
Did the 2011 Volvo XC60 receive major new safety features?
No. The 2011 XC60 did not receive major new standard safety hardware. City Safety low-speed automatic braking remained a central standard feature.
Is the 2011 Volvo XC60 substantially different from the 2010 model?
No. The 2011 model is a light update rather than a redesign. Its main differences are stronger engines, the new T6 R-Design, and a standard panoramic glass roof on the T6.