2026 Mazda CX-70 PHEV vs. 2026 Volvo XC60 PHEV Comparison

Curious about an electric vehicle but aren’t quite ready to let go of the familiarity of a combustion engine in an SUV? Consider a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). A PHEV has a more sustained electric range than a hybrid vehicle, up to about 36 miles, so you can run most errands on electric power alone. Yet, a PHEV has the assurance of an engine, which means you don’t have to stop and charge over long distances. Two of the more compelling midsize PHEV SUVs are the 2026 Mazda CX-70 and the 2026 Volvo XC60.

Mazda aspires to carve out a spot in the premium segment alongside the likes of Lexus, Acura, Lincoln, and Genesis. Those ambitions feel successful with the latest generation of the CX-90 3-row SUV and the related CX-70 5-seat SUV that debuted for the 2025 model year.

Volvo toned down its promise to fully electrify its lineup by 2030, yet it still offers an electrified version of every one of its five models. The XC60 midsize SUV is available as a mild hybrid with a 48-volt battery assisting off-the-line acceleration and the electrical load, or as a powerful plug-in hybrid.

Here’s how the two luxury-leaning PHEVs compare.

2026 Mazda CX-70

The CX-70 launched as an all-new model in 2025. The CX-70 shares the same platform, dimensions, chassis, and other mechanical elements as the Mazda CX-90 3-row SUV. The main difference is that the CX-70 lacks a third row, leaving more room for up to five passengers and their gear.

The CX-70 benefits from Mazda’s distinctive styling, characterized by a long nose, clean body sides, and an artfully sculpted window line, trimmed in either chrome or black. It eschews the boxy rugged trend proliferating in the SUV space for a sportier stance that evokes an attitude of performance and elegance. That continues inside, with an interior design nearly as spartan and alluring as Volvo’s.

Mazda CX-70 Highlights

More affordable: The Mazda CX-70 PHEV has a considerably lower starting price than the Volvo XC60 PHEV, making it more accessible to a wider range of buyers. Even the top Premium Plus trim of the Mazda starts for less than the base price of the Volvo, making the CX-70 PHEV a comparatively affordable luxury option in this class.

Luxury-like interior: While Mazda’s trim choices can be confusing, with certain designations for powertrain types rather than convenience features, the CX-70 PHEV is available in two well-equipped and well-appointed trims. Leather upholstery is standard, and wood trim graces the console and door panels. The touchscreen is best used with wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, because it’s recessed into the dash at a safe and not-distracting distance. Still, it’s easier to use the console controller dial that has fallen out of favor with customers and luxury brands such as BMW.

Bigger interior: Since it’s the same size as the 3-row CX-90 but without the third row, the CX-70 has a huge cargo area of 39.6 cubic feet behind the second row. That’s nearly double, or about three or four suitcases more, than the 21.1 cubic feet of space in the Volvo XC60 PHEV. There’s also at least an inch more rear legroom in the larger Mazda CX-70.

Read our Mazda CX-70 PHEV Expert Review or see 2026 Mazda CX-70 PHEV models for sale near you.

2026 Volvo XC60

The Volvo XC60 sits in the middle of the Volvo SUV lineup, between the smaller XC40 and the bigger, 3-row XC90. This Goldilocks luxury SUV is just the right size for a wide range of shoppers, and its available plug-in hybrid powertrain makes a good SUV even better. Like any good hybrid, it enhances both performance and efficiency over its non-hybrid counterpart.

Volvo XC60 Highlights

Potent PHEV powertrain: The base B5 powertrain is a 247-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4, but the PHEV is one of the most potent applications in Volvo’s small arsenal. What Volvo calls the T8 powertrain connects that turbo-4 with a pair of motors to generate 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque, good for a zero-to-60 mph time as quick as 4.5 seconds.

More range, better mpg: The XC60 PHEV can travel up to 35 miles on electric power, which means carpool duty and most errands can be satisfied without tapping into the engine. Compared to the Mazda, the Volvo has a longer all-electric range and better fuel economy with a depleted battery, which adds up to lower fuel costs.

Google built-in: It wouldn’t take much to beat Mazda’s touchscreen infotainment system, and the vertical orientation of Volvo’s system can be a few scrolls deep for its own good. However, it’s quick and responsive, with cutting-edge graphics for most everyday functions, and its navigation surpasses anything you can find in Apple CarPlay’s suite of apps, including Google Maps.

Read our Volvo XC60 Expert Review or see Volvo XC60 models for sale near you.

Similarities

Both midsize crossover SUVs come standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), and both are offered as plug-in hybrids that seat up to five passengers. The PHEV versions lean into the luxury space, featuring refined cabins, minimalist cockpit designs, and comprehensive feature sets with an emphasis on safety. When considering fuel costs, keep in mind that the gas engines in both of these SUVs require premium gas.

Pricing

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 MAZDA CX-70 PHEV vehicles and New 2026 Volvo XC60 vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.

Specifications

Conclusion

The 2026 Volvo XC60 gets the edge in our Best PHEV SUVs rankings, but it’s close. The 2026 Mazda CX-70 PHEV costs less and offers more space, but the XC60 has more power, a longer range, and better efficiency. The right one for you depends on whether you’re looking for more upscale luxury with better performance or a more practical family vehicle.