The Volvo XC60 is one of the most balanced offerings in the midsize luxury SUV space. It carries Volvo’s signature strengths: understated Scandinavian styling, world-class safety, and eco-conscious mild-hybrid tech. Positioned between the XC40 and XC90, the XC60 appeals to buyers seeking luxury with sensibility.
In this guide, we compare the XC60’s three main variants Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription across features, price, performance, and practicality to help you decide which model aligns best with your lifestyle.
Feature Comparison: Momentum vs R-Design vs Inscription
Here’s a variant-wise breakdown of features available in the XC60 lineup as offered in India before August 2025:
|
Feature |
Momentum |
R-Design |
Inscription |
|
Seating Upholstery |
Leather |
Nappa Leather |
Ventilated Nappa Leather |
|
Front Seats |
Powered, Memory |
Powered with Bolster Adjust |
Powered with Ventilation & Massage |
|
Climate Control |
Dual-Zone |
Four-Zone |
Four-Zone |
|
Audio System |
10-Speaker Premium Sound |
Harman Kardon (14 Speakers) |
Bowers & Wilkins (Optional) |
|
Ambient Lighting |
Standard |
Customizable |
Premium Ambient Package |
|
Infotainment System |
9-inch Touchscreen |
Same |
Same with Extended Functions |
|
Instrument Cluster |
12.3-inch Digital |
Same |
Same |
|
Panoramic Sunroof |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Adaptive Cruise Control |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
360-Degree Camera |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Blind Spot Monitoring |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Head-Up Display |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Verdict: The Momentum is well-equipped for daily luxury, while the R-Design adds sportiness and enhanced tech. The Inscription brings flagship-like features and comfort, especially for rear-seat occupants.
Also Read: Volvo C40 Recharge to be launched in India in August
Price Comparison (Ex-Showroom India)
|
Variant |
Engine |
Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) |
|
Momentum |
2.0L Petrol Mild-Hybrid |
₹67.50 lakh (approx.) |
|
R-Design |
2.0L Petrol Mild-Hybrid |
₹70.90 lakh (approx.) |
|
Inscription |
2.0L Petrol Mild-Hybrid |
₹74.20 lakh (approx.) |
Verdict: With a ~₹7 lakh gap between base and top trims, the XC60 lineup caters to both value-focused and premium-seeking buyers.
Segment Positioning
The Volvo XC60 competes with luxury midsize SUVs such as the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Lexus NX. Despite fewer variants, it differentiates itself through unique design, top-tier safety tech, and a strong plug-in and mild-hybrid focus.
Real Buyer Profile:
- Momentum Buyers: Young professionals, small families, or first-time luxury SUV buyers who want elegance without excess.
- R-Design Buyers: Enthusiasts who enjoy dynamic styling and sporty handling.
- Inscription Buyers: Luxury-focused buyers, business users, or those prioritizing rear-seat comfort and feature richness.
Performance & Engine Details
All three trims of the XC60 are powered by the same mild-hybrid petrol powertrain:
|
Engine Type |
Specs |
|
Engine |
2.0L 4-Cyl Turbo Petrol + MHEV |
|
Power Output |
250 hp @ 5,400 rpm |
|
Torque |
350 Nm @ 1,800–4,800 rpm |
|
Transmission |
8-Speed Automatic |
|
Drivetrain |
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
|
0–100 km/h (Claimed) |
~6.8 seconds |
Driving Feel:
- Momentum and Inscription focus on comfort and smoothness.
- R-Design features a sport-tuned suspension for sharper handling.
Verdict: The XC60 delivers responsive performance for its size, with good power delivery and refined road manners. The R-Design is best suited for spirited drivers, while Momentum and Inscription prioritize comfort.
Boot Space & Practicality
|
Layout |
Boot Capacity |
Notable Features |
|
All Seats Up |
483 litres |
Powered Tailgate with Hands-Free Access |
|
Rear Seats Folded |
~1,410 litres |
Flat Floor, Split-Folding Rear Seats |
Verdict: The XC60 offers decent boot space for its class. The flat-folding seats make it versatile for weekend trips or cargo runs.
Ownership & Running Costs
|
Parameter |
XC60 Estimate |
|
Fuel Efficiency |
~13.1 km/l (ARAI) |
|
Service Interval |
1 Year / 10,000 km |
|
Annual Service Cost |
₹1.2 – ₹1.5 lakh (avg) |
|
Warranty |
2 years/unlimited km (extendable) |
|
Extended Coverage |
5-Year Volvo Service Plans |
Verdict: The XC60’s mild-hybrid tech aids fuel economy in city and highway driving. While maintenance isn’t cheap, service packages offer peace of mind.
Choose Volvo XC60 Momentum If...
- You're entering the luxury segment and want essential features without overspending.
- You prefer value-for-money luxury from a safety-first brand.
- You’ll mostly self-drive with light family usage.
Choose Volvo XC60 R-Design If...
- You want a sporty look with stiffer suspension and dark-themed interiors.
- You enjoy spirited driving or highway road trips.
- You want extra tech without going to the top-end.
Choose Volvo XC60 Inscription If...
- You’re seeking top-class comfort and cabin ambiance.
- You want the best materials, ventilated seats, and premium audio.
- You’re often chauffeur-driven or spend long hours in the car.
Final Thoughts
The Volvo XC60 continues to be a benchmark for buyers who value understated luxury, world-class safety, and everyday usability. With its three carefully curated variants, Volvo ensures there’s a version for every type of buyer, from the practical Momentum to the sporty R-Design and the indulgent Inscription.
If you’re looking for a premium SUV that’s elegant, eco-friendly, and loaded with features – but don’t need the flashiness of German rivals, the Volvo XC60 remains one of the smartest buys in its segment.
Also Read: Volvo brings XC40 Recharge single motor variant to India at Rs 54.95 lakh
