Volvo three-row hybrid SUV under evaluation as global demand for large

With demand for large SUVs rising across key international markets, Volvo is actively evaluating the possibility of developing an all-new three-row hybrid SUV positioned above its current lineup. The Volvo three-row hybrid SUV would cater to customers looking for greater space and presence while retaining a hybrid-focused approach aligned with the brand’s near-term strategy.
In a conversation with Autocar UK, Volvo President and CEO Hakan Samuelsson clarified that no final decision has been taken, but the company is closely studying the segment. He noted that while plans are not yet confirmed, larger SUVs are clearly an area of interest for the Swedish automaker as customer preferences evolve in core regions.
Volvo three-row hybrid SUV positioning and size expectations
If approved, the Volvo three-row hybrid SUV would become the brand’s new flagship, sitting above existing offerings. It is expected to be larger than both the XC90 and the all-electric EX90, addressing demand for more spacious three-row configurations in premium markets.
For reference, the current XC90 measures around 4.95 metres in length, while the EX90 stretches slightly beyond 5 metres in markets such as the United States. The proposed flagship is expected to exceed these dimensions, placing it firmly in the large luxury SUV category alongside established global rivals.
Platform options under evaluation
Volvo has multiple platform routes available for its next-generation flagship SUV. One option is leveraging resources within its parent group, potentially drawing from Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture platform. This platform already underpins large hybrid SUVs designed for global markets and offers scalability for size and performance.
Alternatively, Volvo could adapt its in-house Scalable Product Architecture, which currently supports models such as the XC90 and EX90. Repurposing this architecture would allow the brand to maintain continuity with its existing product strategy while scaling up dimensions and capability for a larger three-row hybrid SUV.
Hybrid powertrain strategy takes priority
Powertrain strategy remains a central consideration for the Volvo three-row hybrid SUV. Samuelsson indicated that Volvo’s core markets are likely to show stronger interest in hybrid vehicles over the next few years rather than fully electric alternatives in this segment.
While final specifications have not been confirmed, Volvo already offers proven plug-in hybrid systems. The XC90 plug-in hybrid sold in the US combines a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and an 18.8kWh battery pack, delivering a combined output of 455hp. Similar or enhanced hybrid configurations could be adapted for the new flagship.
Volvo is also aware of higher-output hybrid technologies within the Geely ecosystem, although no decision has been made on adopting such systems. During discussions, Samuelsson highlighted that the additional weight associated with very large battery packs was a key factor in steering the next flagship SUV away from being a full electric vehicle.
US and China identified as core markets
The United States and China are expected to be the primary markets for the Volvo three-row hybrid SUV if the project moves forward. Both regions continue to show strong and sustained demand for large three-row SUVs, particularly in the premium segment.
Volvo already manufactures the EX90 electric SUV at its South Carolina facility near Charleston, while additional production takes place at its Chengdu plant in China. The US remains the brand’s largest market outside China, making it a natural focus for a new flagship SUV designed to appeal to customers seeking size, comfort, and hybrid efficiency.
“If we start building a car there, it will be a very attractive car for the US market and US customers,” Samuelsson stated, underlining the strategic importance of aligning product development with regional demand trends.
As Volvo weighs its next steps, the Volvo three-row hybrid SUV represents a potential expansion into a high-demand segment where size, luxury, and electrified performance converge, without committing fully to long-range electric propulsion.