The 2024 Volvo XC60 Black Edition takes one of the UK’s favourite premium SUVs and gives it a bold, monochrome twist. Underneath the stealthy styling sits the same blend of safety, comfort and understated performance that has helped the XC60 outsell many newer rivals. For drivers who want a family SUV that feels genuinely upmarket but a little less obvious than the usual German choices, the Black Edition package is a compelling alternative. It mixes a distinctive blackout design, high-spec cabins and efficient electrified powertrains, while staying true to Volvo’s focus on relaxed, secure long‑distance driving.
At a time when many mid-size SUVs are chasing ever more aggressive performance and oversized grilles, the XC60 Black Edition leans into a different kind of confidence. You get strong acceleration, impressive efficiency from the T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid, and a cabin that still feels like a calm Scandinavian lounge. For UK buyers balancing company-car tax, school-run practicality and genuine long‑trip comfort, that combination is difficult to ignore.
2024 volvo XC60 black edition design package: blackout styling, onyx black paint and gloss black trim
Exterior blackout details: high-gloss black grille, window surrounds, roof rails and rear diffuser on the XC60 black edition
The defining feature of the 2024 Volvo XC60 Black Edition is the comprehensive blackout styling pack. Instead of bright chrome, almost every exterior detail is finished in high‑gloss black, giving the car a more assertive, almost concept‑car look without resorting to oversized spoilers or fake vents. The grille surround, vertical grille bars and the iconic Volvo Iron Mark badge are all darkened, with only the Volvo script subtly picked out to stand out against the Onyx Black metallic paint.
Window surrounds, roof rails, lower side mouldings and rear diffuser trim are also finished in gloss black, visually lowering the car and tying the design together from every angle. Viewed on a dull winter morning or under bright dealership lights, the effect is the same: a clean, cohesive silhouette where the proportions of the XC60 are allowed to do the talking. If you prefer a slightly less stealthy look, the Black Edition can also be ordered in Vapour Grey, Crystal White or Denim Blue, yet the black detailing still dominates the visual impression.
Wheel options and tyre specifications: 21-inch and 22-inch black alloys, pirelli P zero tyres and staggered setups
Big wheels are central to the Black Edition aesthetic. UK‑spec Plus and Plus Pro Black Edition models typically come with 21‑inch gloss black alloy wheels as standard, while high‑spec Ultra versions can be optioned with 22‑inch rims in certain markets. The design is deliberately minimalist, with sharp, angular spokes that suit the darker theme and echo the crisp lines of the bodywork.
Tyre choice plays an important role in how the XC60 Black Edition rides and handles. Most cars are supplied on premium rubber such as Pirelli P Zero or a similar performance‑oriented tyre, balancing grip with refinement. On plug‑in hybrid T8 models, the setup is typically square rather than staggered, making tyre rotation easier and slightly reducing running costs over time. For UK buyers concerned about comfort on 21‑inch wheels, the pairing of these tyres with the optional air suspension results in a surprisingly supple ride, especially compared with some rivals on similar wheel sizes.
Lighting signature and visibility tech: thor’s hammer LED headlights, active high beam and LED fog lamps
Even in full blackout form, the XC60 Black Edition is instantly recognisable at night thanks to Volvo’s signature Thor’s Hammer LED daytime running lights. These T‑shaped light bars cut across the front lamp units, giving the SUV a sharp, modern gaze that contrasts with the dark body and trim. Full LED headlights with active high beam are standard on all Black Edition trims, automatically dipping individual segments to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic while maintaining maximum illumination elsewhere.
LED front fog lamps and cornering lights further improve visibility on unlit rural roads or tight city streets. For drivers regularly commuting in poor weather, the combination of strong low‑beam performance and adaptive high‑beam technology makes a real difference to fatigue and perceived safety. It is one of those features you may not notice on a test drive, but you appreciate deeply after a few long winter journeys.
Black edition badging, branding elements and de-chromed exterior components
Branding on the 2024 Volvo XC60 Black Edition is deliberately subtle. The rear model designation, engine badging and Volvo lettering are all finished in high‑gloss black, blending into the tailgate unless the light catches them. Discreet Black Edition identifiers are found on the exterior and in the cabin, but there is no oversized script shouting about the specification. For many premium SUV buyers, that restraint is part of the appeal.
All traditional chrome elements have been either removed or de‑chromed. Door mirror caps, side window trims, exhaust surrounds and even roof rail fixings adopt the darker finish. The overall effect is similar to a “shadow line” pack on German rivals, but implemented more thoroughly and with a stronger visual link between front, side and rear. If you want a mid-size SUV that looks premium but avoids excessive flash, the Black Edition treatment hits a sweet spot.
Powertrains and performance: B5 mild-hybrid and T8 recharge plug-in hybrid in the 2024 XC60 black edition
B5 mild-hybrid petrol drivetrain: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, 48V system and power output figures
The entry powertrain in the XC60 Black Edition range is the B5 mild‑hybrid petrol. This uses a 2.0‑litre, four‑cylinder turbocharged engine paired with a 48‑volt starter‑generator. Output is a healthy 247 bhp (250 PS) and 361 Nm of torque, sent to all four wheels via an 8‑speed Geartronic automatic. Officially, the B5 Black Edition returns up to around 37.6 mpg (WLTP combined) and emits roughly 177 g/km of CO₂, making it competitive among petrol premium SUVs with similar performance.
The 48V system provides smooth engine restarts and a small electric boost under acceleration, helping to reduce fuel consumption in stop‑start traffic. It does not offer electric‑only running, but it improves responsiveness at low revs and makes the stop‑start function far less intrusive. If your usage is mainly mixed motorway and A‑road driving, and you do not have regular access to charging, the B5 mild‑hybrid remains a sensible, well‑balanced choice.
T8 recharge plug-in hybrid system: electric-only range, battery capacity and combined system horsepower
For maximum performance and minimum emissions, the XC60 Black Edition T8 Recharge is the standout option. Its plug‑in hybrid system pairs a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0‑litre petrol engine driving the front wheels with a powerful electric motor on the rear axle. Combined system output is around 449 bhp in UK‑spec cars, delivering 0–62 mph in as little as 4.9 seconds while maintaining Volvo’s typical 112 mph top‑speed cap.
A high‑capacity battery of about 18.8 kWh (usable) sits under the boot floor, enabling an official WLTP electric‑only range of up to roughly 47–50 miles, depending on wheel size and specification. Real‑world testing often shows 40+ miles of EV range in milder weather, which is enough for many UK commuters to complete the daily drive on electricity alone if charged at home or work. When used this way, fuel consumption can drop to extremely low levels, turning the XC60 T8 into a highly efficient premium SUV for short‑to‑medium journeys.
AWD system, 8-speed geartronic automatic transmission and driving dynamics tuning
Both B5 and T8 Recharge Black Edition models use Volvo’s electronically controlled all‑wheel‑drive setup. In the B5, the system is mechanically linked through the gearbox and rear differential, shuffling torque between axles as grip demands. In the T8, the rear axle is exclusively powered by the electric motor, effectively creating an e‑AWD layout when the battery has charge. This configuration delivers strong traction in poor conditions and a reassuringly planted feel when pulling out of junctions or overtaking in wet weather.
The 8‑speed Geartronic automatic transmission is tuned for smooth, unobtrusive shifts. In hybrid mode, it works with the electric motor to blend power sources, making the transition between petrol and electric almost seamless. Sportier shift logic can be engaged via drive modes or, on some versions, via a Polestar Performance software upgrade that sharpens throttle response and optimises gear selection without changing headline power figures.
Acceleration, top speed and WLTP fuel consumption figures for UK-spec XC60 black edition models
Performance figures highlight the breadth of ability offered by the XC60 Black Edition range. The B5 mild‑hybrid reaches 0–62 mph in around 6.9 seconds, which is brisk enough for confident motorway joining and safe overtakes. The T8 Recharge, with its combined output approaching 450 bhp, slashes this to about 4.9 seconds, putting it in the same league as many performance‑branded SUVs while still capping top speed at 112 mph in line with Volvo’s safety‑led policy.
Official WLTP fuel economy for the T8 exceeds 200 mpg on the combined cycle when driven with a charged battery, while CO₂ emissions can dip well below 50 g/km depending on specification. Real‑world figures depend heavily on charging habits: frequent home charging and predominantly short trips can see you using almost no petrol, whereas long motorway runs with a depleted battery will return something closer to 35–40 mpg. Understanding your usage pattern is crucial if you want to unlock the full economic benefit of the plug‑in hybrid system.
Chassis, suspension and driving dynamics: comfort, dynamic and Off-Road modes in the XC60 black edition
Standard suspension vs optional four-corner air suspension and adaptive dampers
Under the skin, the XC60 Black Edition offers two main suspension setups. Standard cars use conventional steel springs with well‑judged damping, tuned primarily for comfort rather than aggressive cornering. Ride quality on British roads is impressively composed, even on 21‑inch wheels, with the suspension doing a good job of smoothing out sharp edges without excessive float.
Ultra Black Edition models add four‑corner air suspension and adaptive dampers. This system self‑levels the car regardless of load and can vary its characteristics based on drive mode. In Comfort mode, it softens the damping for a plush, almost limousine‑like ride, while Dynamic mode tightens body control and reduces roll through faster bends. Off‑Road mode increases ground clearance for rough tracks or deep snow, highlighting the XC60’s ability to cope with more than just speed humps and gravel car parks.
Steering calibration, body control and ride comfort on british b-roads and motorways
Steering in the 2024 XC60 Black Edition is electrically assisted and deliberately light at low speeds, making urban manoeuvres and parking straightforward. At motorway pace it gains reassuring weight, helping the car track straight without constant correction. The tuning falls on the comfort‑biased side, so if you are coming from a BMW X3 M Sport, you may find the XC60 slightly less eager to dart into corners, but also noticeably more relaxing on longer journeys.
On undulating B‑roads, body control is tidy rather than overtly sporty. The Black Edition’s wider tyres and low‑profile sidewalls introduce a hint of firmness over very broken surfaces, yet the basic suspension tuning remains forgiving. Professional observation suggests that the XC60 is at its best when driven with a smooth, flowing style; treat it like a fast grand tourer rather than a hot hatch in SUV form and it rewards with composure and an underlying sense of security.
Braking hardware, brake-by-wire integration and energy recuperation on T8 recharge
Braking performance is another area where the T8 Recharge plug‑in hybrid shows its sophistication. The car uses a blended braking system that combines conventional friction brakes with regenerative braking through the electric motor. Under light to moderate pedal inputs, most of the deceleration is handled by regeneration, feeding energy back into the battery and improving efficiency.
The brake‑by‑wire calibration has improved significantly compared with early plug‑in hybrids in the segment. Pedal feel is progressive, and most drivers will struggle to detect the point where regeneration hands over to physical braking. On long descents, energy recuperation can meaningfully top up the battery, especially if you select specific hybrid or “B” modes that increase regen strength. For you as a driver, that means smoother stops in town and slightly lower brake wear over time.
Interior specification: premium materials, black edition upholstery and scandinavian ergonomics
Charcoal interior theme, black headlining and metal mesh or linear lime décor inlays
Inside, the 2024 Volvo XC60 Black Edition continues the stealthy theme with a predominantly charcoal colour palette. A black headlining, dark door cards and subtle ambient lighting create a cocooning atmosphere, more boutique hotel than traditional SUV. Depending on trim level, décor inlays are finished in Metal Mesh aluminium or elegant Linear Lime wood, lifting the cabin and preventing the all‑black theme from feeling oppressive.
Soft‑touch materials cover the dashboard and upper door sections, while switchgear has a solid, well‑damped feel that still stands out even as the current XC60 approaches the later stages of its lifecycle. The result is a cabin that may lack the ultra‑wide screens of some rivals, but still feels thoughtfully designed and well screwed together. If you value tactile quality and calm design over sheer gadget count, the Black Edition interior will likely appeal strongly.
Seating comfort, power-adjustable front seats, memory functions and heating/ventilation options
Seat comfort has long been a Volvo hallmark, and the XC60 Black Edition continues that reputation. Front seats offer generous adjustment, including extendable cushions, adjustable lumbar support and multi‑way power adjustment on higher trims. Memory functions allow you to store preferred positions, which is particularly useful if more than one person shares driving duties.
Nappa leather sports upholstery in charcoal is available on Plus Pro and Ultra Black Edition models, adding both visual richness and long‑distance comfort. Heated front seats are standard on most UK cars, while Ultra versions add ventilation and, in many cases, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel. If you regularly cover several hundred miles in a day, this focus on seating ergonomics and temperature control matters more than an extra tenth off the 0–62 mph sprint.
Cabin acoustics, laminated side windows and optional bowers & wilkins sound system
Cabin refinement is another strength of the XC60 platform. Double‑glazed or laminated side windows (depending on trim) help cut wind noise, while extensive sound‑deadening makes the cabin feel serene at motorway speeds. The mild‑hybrid B5 is already quiet, but the T8 Recharge takes calm to the next level when running in electric mode, gliding almost silently through town or early‑morning residential areas.
Audio enthusiasts can opt for the premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system on Ultra Black Edition cars. This high‑end setup adds a dashboard‑mounted tweeter, additional speakers around the cabin and sophisticated sound processing modes mimicking venues such as a concert hall. Combined with the generally low noise floor, it turns the XC60 into an impressive mobile listening room, especially useful if you spend significant time on the M1 or M25 and want journeys to feel less like a chore.
Infotainment and connectivity: google built-in, android automotive OS and volvo on call
Central touchscreen interface, portrait display and over-the-air (OTA) software updates
The centrepiece of the XC60 Black Edition’s technology suite is the 9‑inch portrait‑oriented touchscreen running Volvo’s Google‑based infotainment platform, built on Android Automotive OS. While it may look smaller than some rival screens, the layout is clear and easy to read, and the vertical orientation suits mapping and list‑based menus. Regular over‑the‑air (OTA) software updates ensure that features, apps and optimisations continue to improve over the car’s life.
Climate controls remain largely on‑screen, which takes a little acclimatisation, but key functions are always just a tap away. The system reacts quickly to inputs and voice commands, avoiding the lag that can make some competitors frustrating to use. If you value up‑to‑date software and app support over sheer screen size, the XC60’s infotainment strikes a good balance between modern capability and everyday usability.
Google maps navigation, real-time traffic data and EV route planning for T8 recharge
Integrated Google Maps is one of the strongest aspects of the XC60’s connected technology. Real‑time traffic data, predictive routing and live re‑routing help you avoid congestion and accurately predict arrival times. This is particularly handy for regular commuters, school runs and time‑critical business travel where delays add real stress. The map graphics are clear, and lane guidance is excellent on complex motorway interchanges.
For T8 Recharge plug‑in hybrid models, EV‑aware route planning incorporates battery charge, predicted energy use and available charging points. The system can suggest where to top up and how to balance electric versus petrol power for a trip. Think of it as a sat‑nav that understands your car’s hybrid nature rather than just drawing a line from A to B. For anyone new to plug‑in hybrids, this guidance helps build confidence and reduces range anxiety.
Smartphone integration with apple CarPlay, bluetooth, USB-C ports and wireless charging pad
Smartphone integration is comprehensive. Apple CarPlay is supported (primarily via wired connection, though regional specs may vary), while Android users benefit from the native Google‑based interface that mirrors many phone functions directly in the car. Bluetooth connectivity is fast and reliable, making hands‑free calls and audio streaming straightforward.
A wireless charging pad sits ahead of the gear selector, keeping compatible phones topped up without a cable cluttering the cabin. Multiple USB‑C ports are available for both front and rear passengers, meaning your family or colleagues can plug in laptops, tablets or additional devices on longer drives. For anyone relying on digital calendars, navigation and messaging throughout the day, this level of connectivity ensures the XC60 Black Edition works as a rolling office as much as a family car.
Advanced safety systems and driver assistance: volvo pilot assist and IntelliSafe in the 2024 XC60 black edition
ADAS suite overview: city safety, lane-keeping aid and run-off road mitigation
Safety is deeply embedded in the XC60, and the Black Edition builds on Volvo’s IntelliSafe package. City Safety includes autonomous emergency braking that can detect vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, intervening if you fail to react in time. Lane‑keeping aid gently steers the car back towards the centre of the lane if you drift without indicating, while run‑off road mitigation can apply steering and braking inputs to help prevent leaving the carriageway altogether.
The XC60 achieved a five‑star Euro NCAP rating, including a 98% score for adult occupant protection and 87% for child occupants when last tested, which remains impressive in today’s market. For parents, the inclusion of ISOFIX mounts, built‑in child booster options on some models and robust side‑impact protection add extra reassurance that the car has been engineered around real‑world family scenarios, not just test‑lab conditions.
Pilot assist semi-autonomous driving, adaptive cruise control and traffic jam assistance
Higher‑trim XC60 Black Edition models gain Pilot Assist, Volvo’s semi‑autonomous driving aid. Combining adaptive cruise control with lane‑centring steering support, Pilot Assist can manage acceleration, braking and small steering corrections on motorways and well‑marked dual carriageways. You remain responsible and must keep hands on the wheel, but the system removes much of the mental and physical effort from long‑distance cruising.
In heavy traffic, the same technology acts as a form of traffic jam assist, smoothly following the car ahead, stopping and starting as necessary. The calibration is among the more natural in this segment, avoiding the jerky behaviour some rival systems exhibit. If you frequently travel on congested sections of the M6 or M4, this can make the difference between arriving frazzled or relatively fresh.
360-degree camera, park assist pilot and cross-traffic alert with auto brake
Parking assistance is another area where the XC60 Black Edition feels reassuringly high‑end. A 360‑degree camera system stitches together views from multiple cameras, providing a bird’s‑eye perspective that is invaluable in tight multi‑storey car parks or narrow city streets. Visual clarity is good, and the system overlays helpful guides to show steering angle and projected path.
Park Assist Pilot can automatically steer the car into suitable parallel or bay spaces while you manage the pedals and gear selection. Cross‑traffic alert with auto brake warns you of unseen vehicles approaching from the sides when reversing out of driveways or parking spots and can apply the brakes if you fail to respond. For anyone regularly parking in crowded supermarket car parks or on busy urban roads, these features significantly reduce everyday stress and the risk of low‑speed scrapes.
Charging, efficiency and real-world running costs of the XC60 black edition T8 recharge
AC charging times on 7.4 kw home wallbox and public charge points in the UK
The XC60 T8 Recharge’s battery can be topped up via AC charging, which is ideal for home or workplace use. Using a typical 7.4 kW home wallbox, a full charge from empty takes around 3 hours, though in daily use you will often be topping up from 20–60% rather than charging from zero. On slower 3‑pin domestic sockets, charging is possible but significantly longer and best treated as an emergency or occasional solution.
Public AC charge points in the UK, commonly found in car parks, supermarkets and leisure centres, also operate around 7–22 kW. Since the XC60’s onboard charger is the limiting factor, charge times are similar to those at home, but can be useful if you regularly stop at locations with reliable infrastructure. Using cheap overnight tariffs where possible reduces cost per mile dramatically; some UK energy providers currently offer off‑peak rates that make electricity equivalent to paying well under £1 per litre of fuel.
Electric-only commuting scenarios, WLTP CO₂ emissions and BiK tax implications for company car drivers
If your daily commute falls within the XC60 T8’s electric‑only range—say 20–40 miles each way—the plug‑in hybrid effectively behaves like an electric SUV for most of the week. Charge overnight, drive to work and back on EV power, and the petrol engine may only start for occasional longer trips. This pattern can see real‑world fuel use drop into double digits per month rather than per week, especially if you use workplace charging.
From a taxation perspective, the T8’s low official CO₂ output places it in a significantly lower Benefit‑in‑Kind (BiK) band than an equivalent pure‑petrol premium SUV. For company car drivers, the difference in monthly net cost versus a high‑output diesel or petrol rival can be substantial—often hundreds of pounds per year. As UK tax bands continue to incentivise plug‑in hybrids with strong EV range, the XC60 Black Edition T8 remains a compelling choice for those wanting performance and tax efficiency in one package.
Service intervals, battery warranty and projected residual values in the premium mid-size SUV segment
Running costs are shaped not just by fuel and electricity, but also servicing and long‑term durability. The XC60 Black Edition follows Volvo’s usual service schedule, typically every 12 months or a set mileage (often around 18,000 miles, though exact figures vary by engine and market). The plug‑in hybrid system adds some complexity, but also reduces wear on the internal‑combustion engine thanks to frequent electric running.
The high‑voltage battery in the T8 Recharge is usually covered by a separate warranty of up to eight years or 100,000 miles, offering reassurance about long‑term reliability. Historically, Volvo SUVs have held their value reasonably well, and the XC60’s status as a popular, safe and refined family car supports strong residuals. Black Edition models, with their distinctive styling and rich equipment levels, are likely to be particularly desirable on the used market, helping to lower overall cost of ownership for you if buying on PCP or lease, where predicted residuals play a major role in monthly payments.
Pricing, trim hierarchy and key rivals to the 2024 volvo XC60 black edition in the UK market
Price positioning versus standard XC60 ultimate and plus trims
In the UK, the XC60 Black Edition sits at the top of the range as a style‑focused derivative of the Plus, Plus Pro and Ultra trims. As a broad guide, a B5 Plus Black Edition starts from around £56,890 on the road, with the T6 Plug‑in Hybrid Plus Black Edition nudging into the low‑£60k bracket. Step up to Plus Pro or Ultra Black Edition trim and list prices rise accordingly, with a fully loaded T8 Recharge Ultra Black Edition approaching or exceeding £70,000 depending on options.
Price walk‑ups from standard Plus or Ultimate (often badged Ultra in some markets) trims are relatively modest considering the extra specification and unique styling. Professional opinion would frame the Black Edition as a sweet‑spot for buyers who were already considering high‑spec XC60s; the incremental cost for the blackout package, larger wheels and enhanced equipment is small compared with the overall price of the vehicle, yet the visual impact and desirability are significant.
Comparison with BMW X3 M sport, audi Q5 black edition and mercedes GLC AMG line
Rivals in this premium mid‑size SUV segment include the BMW X3 M Sport, Audi Q5 Black Edition and Mercedes‑Benz GLC AMG Line. Each brings its own personality. The X3 leans hardest towards dynamic handling and rear‑biased driving feel, the Q5 majors on interior quality and quietness, while the latest GLC focuses on technology and a more overtly luxurious image. The XC60 Black Edition offers a more understated alternative, prioritising comfort, safety and Scandinavian flair over track‑day heroics.
In plug‑in hybrid form, the XC60 T8’s electric‑only range and combined power output are highly competitive, often exceeding the EV range of some German rivals. The Black Edition’s blackout styling also gives Volvo a direct answer to M Sport Shadowline, S line Black Edition and AMG Night packages, but with a slightly softer, more mature presence. If you like the idea of a high‑spec SUV that stands out without shouting, the XC60 Black Edition occupies a niche that few others manage to fill as convincingly.
Lease deals, PCP finance examples and total cost of ownership analysis
When considering an XC60 Black Edition, it is worth looking beyond list price to total cost of ownership. Strong predicted residual values, particularly for T8 plug‑in hybrid models, can translate into competitive monthly payments on PCP and lease deals. For example, a well‑specced T8 Ultra Black Edition with a list price close to £70,000 may lease from the high‑£300s to low‑£400s per month on certain business contract hire offers, depending on deposit, mileage and term, which compares favourably with equivalent German SUVs.
Factor in potential BiK tax savings for company car drivers, reduced fuel spend if you regularly charge at home on an off‑peak tariff, and the relatively long service intervals, and the XC60 Black Edition often undercuts rivals on whole‑life cost despite its premium positioning. For private buyers, keeping the car for five years or more and using the T8’s electric range to the full can further tilt the equation in your favour, especially as fuel prices and taxation on higher‑emission vehicles continue to rise in the UK.