Mat’s car of the day: I love the Volvo XC60, but it makes sense to buy a used one
Car changing is a big deal
When Mat Watson tested the Volvo XC60 in March, he was really impressed by it. Despite being around for eight years, he’d have one of these over a BMW X3, but it makes sense to check out used examples before committing to a new one.
Progress for the sake of progress isn’t always a good thing. Lots of new cars are getting bigger screens, more technology and increasingly polarising designs, but the Volvo XC60 keeps things simple.
It’s been around since 2018, and over the past eight years it’s not changed a huge amount. It’s just been gently updated every few years with tweaked styling and improved tech, and I reckon it’s all the better for it. The thing is though, this does mean that a used Volvo XC60 may make more sense than a new one. Here’s why.
Why should you consider a used Volvo XC60 instead of a new one?
Because the XC60 hasn’t changed all that much since it was first revealed, you’re not really missing out on much by going for one which is a few years old. Apart from that new car smell, of course.
The XC60 I recently tested was a T8 plug-in hybrid with 455hp in top-of-the-range Ultra trim, and that car will cost you almost £71,000. After a quick look on Carwow, I found a handful of cars in this same spec from 2025 for between £45,000 and £50,000. That’s a huge saving right off the bat.
But you can save even more by going for one which is slightly older. Just look at this 2023 example I’ve found. It’s got just 23,000 miles on the clock, and it’s up for £38,000. That’s nearly £20,000 less than a basic new XC60, and this is an Ultimate model.
That means it’s very highly-specced. You get a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, a Bowers and Wilkins sound system, a Google-based infotainment screen, heated seats and a heated steering wheel. This car also has some rather lovely wood trim inside.
New Volvo XC60 vs used Volvo XC60: what’s the difference?
There are a few subtle differences between the latest Volvo XC60 which I reviewed and this 2023 example, the most obvious one being inside. The new car has a larger infotainment screen which sits proud of the dashboard, and it has a faster processor and sharper graphics.
The front grille is also slightly different, with the new XC60 having diagonal strakes as opposed to the egg crate-style grille on the pre-facelift car. The front and rear lights have been tweaked slightly, too, but the overall design is pretty much identical.
And I don’t think this is a bad thing. The XC60 has always been a really handsome car, so there’s no need to overhaul the design. I also love the interior. It may not look as modern as the new BMW X3’s cabin, but I reckon the quality is better. Everything feels solid and plush, just what you want from a posh SUV.
It’s also really relaxing to drive, if not as sporty-feeling as an X3, and practicality is decent. If you’re after a premium family SUV, but don’t want to spend a fortune, I highly recommend checking out a used Volvo XC60.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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