VOLVO Philippines has officially launched the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions of its two most popular SUVs — the XC90 and XC60 — in a high-profile event held on July 2, 2025, at the Solaire Resort’s Grand Ballroom in Parañaque City.

(From left) Mikael Hagsten-Nielsen, Retail Operations and Aftermarket Manager, Asia-Pacific Importers of Volvo Cars Corp.; Kelvin Xu Ying Yi, Managing Director, Asia-Pacific Importers; Maria Fe Perez-Agudo, Hariphil Asia Resources Inc. (HARI) Vice Chair, President, and CEO; Richard Lee, HARI Chairman; and Ladislao Avila Jr., HARI Director, Treasurer, and CFO. VOLVO PHOTO

Dubbed “Alive: Bringing the World of Volvo to Life,” the event showcased the brand’s commitment to safety, electrification, and sustainable luxury.

Gracing the event were Volvo Cars Corp. executives from the Asia-Pacific Importers group, led by Managing Director Kelvin Xu Ying Yi and Retail Operations and Aftermarket Manager Mikael Hagsten-Nielsen. They joined the top brass of Hariphil Asia Resources Inc. (HARI) — the official distributor of Volvo in the country — headed by Chairman Richard Lee, Vice Chair, President and CEO Maria Fe Perez-Agudo, and Director and CFO Ladislao Avila Jr.

The XC60 is Volvo’s best-selling model.

Leading the twin reveal was the Volvo XC90 Plug-in Hybrid T8 AWD Ultimate, the brand’s flagship SUV and a confident expression of refined power. The XC90’s 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged petrol engine works in tandem with a rear-mounted electric motor to deliver a total output of 455 horsepower (hp) and 709 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. This allows the seven-seater SUV to sprint from zero to 100 kph in just 5.4 seconds, all while offering up to 77 kilometers (km) of pure electric range — perfect for daily commutes that demand silence and efficiency, yet capable of long-distance drives with the reassurance of hybrid flexibility.

Inside, the XC90’s Scandinavian interior is as functional as it is elegant. The Nappa leather upholstery, real wood accents, and ambient lighting create a calming atmosphere, while the floating infotainment display and digital instrument cluster are designed to keep the driver’s focus where it matters most. The SUV features the latest version of Volvo’s infotainment system with integrated Google services such as Maps, Assistant, and Play Store, all working seamlessly through voice control and over-the-air updates. The four-zone climate control system, enhanced by Volvo’s CleanZone air purification tech, ensures cabin comfort, while the panoramic sunroof and laminated acoustic glass further elevate the driving experience.

The new Volvo XC90.

Complementing the sense of security is a suite of advanced safety systems that include Pilot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Intersection Autobrake, a 360-degree camera, and Volvo’s signature collision avoidance technology.

Equally enthralling is the Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid T8 AWD Ultimate, now bringing its global best-seller status into the local electrified SUV scene. The XC60 shares the same high-output hybrid powertrain as the XC90, delivering the same 455 hp and 709 Nm of torque, but in a slightly more compact and agile package. Its zero-to-100 kph time is an even quicker 4.9 seconds, and its electric-only range stretches up to 80 km.

The XC60 is well-suited for urban driving with its sleek profile, quick acceleration, and intelligent all-wheel drive system that adapts seamlessly to changing road conditions.

The cabin continues the theme of Scandinavian design with subtle yet sophisticated touches. A crystal gear shifter by Orrefors adds a unique tactile element to the center console, while wood and aluminum trims, Nordico leather-free upholstery made from recycled materials, and advanced air purification certified by Allergy Standards Ltd. create a space that’s both premium and health-conscious.

Laminated side glass reduces wind and road noise, and a Harman Kardon sound system with 14 speakers delivers crisp, immersive audio. As in the XC90, the XC60 is equipped with Volvo’s full safety package, including blind spot information system, lane keeping aid, pilot assist, and front and rear collision mitigation systems — all working quietly in the background to protect everyone on board and around the vehicle.

“This moment isn’t just about unveiling a product — it’s about affirming a mindset. Safety isn’t just what we build. It’s what we live by,” said Perez-Agudo.