What if the Swedish automaker Volvo stepped into the big leagues? A plan is on the table for an ultra-luxury SUV with truly monumental dimensions. While there’s no official confirmation, executives are talking about serious internal discussions around a flagship model… Even larger than the XC90. A future rival to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the Cadillac Escalade, or the Mercedes GLS?
In Brief
Volvo is seriously weighing the launch of an ultra-luxury SUV that would sit above the XC90 to take on prestige models like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Cadillac Escalade. The project would lean on Geely Group technologies, including the Zeekr 9X platform. With clear ambitions to conquer the American and Chinese markets, Volvo could offer a premium SUV with an extended‑range hybrid powertrain. A final decision hasn’t been made, but the brand seems determined to elevate its luxury game and meet the expectations of a global premium clientele.
A Gigantic SUV Under Consideration at Volvo
During a Stockholm press conference, Volvo Cars CEO acknowledged that the brand is studying the possibility of launching a three‑row SUV even larger than the XC90.
This forthcoming flagship for the Swedish lineup would especially target the American market, which has a penchant for XXL-sized vehicles. It would also aim at China, where large families favor spacious premium SUVs.
According to Edmunds, 11% of former XC90 or EX90 owners move up to larger-format models. A figure that does not escape Volvo’s strategists. Dealers, for their part, are calling for a real upscale shift to keep loyal customers from turning to German or American rivals.
The project has not yet received official approval. But Volvo chief Håkan Samuelsson’s comments to our colleagues at Auto News leave little doubt. “The bigger SUVs are a path we’re exploring.” Duly noted is that the brand already has several levers to draw upon, both on the technical platforms and in production capability.
A Geely‑Based Foundation Already in Place?
Volvo could lean on the technology of its parent Geely, notably via the Zeekr 9X, a plug‑in hybrid SUV launched in China in 2025. Measuring 5.23 m in length, 2.03 m in width, and a wheelbase of 3.17 m, this behemoth approaches the Escalade in size—and even surpasses the Rolls‑Royce Cullinan in wheelbase.
The 9X runs on the SEA‑S 900‑volt platform and delivers top‑tier performance. Up to 1,380 horsepower combined, a massive battery, ultra‑fast charging (20–80% in under 10 minutes), and an electric range of up to 380 km. That could provide a solid base for Volvo’s ultra‑premium SUV, tailored to global tastes.
Meanwhile, Volvo’s South Carolina plant is gearing up to welcome a new plug‑in hybrid model for production as early as 2028, though it is not yet clear whether the model will be the big SUV. The site has already seen a $1.3 billion investment, and today it builds the EX90 and Polestar 3, with the next XC60 on the way.
Volvo Ready to Take on Segment Giants?
This future model would offer an electric range of about 100 miles, with a driving feel close to that of a 100% electric vehicle, according to Volvo. A long‑range hybrid approach would allow the brand to meet environmental standards while satisfying premium market expectations.
If this project comes to fruition, Volvo could take aim at benchmarks like the BMW X7, Mercedes GLS, Cadillac Escalade, and even the Rolls‑Royce Cullinan. A bold repositioning for a brand that has long been associated with a rational, Scandinavian take on luxury.
With the gradual phasing out of its traditional internal combustion models and a push to move upmarket, Volvo seems ready to cross a new threshold. The global market is evolving… And the Swedish automaker isn’t planning to stay on the sidelines.
The future XXL Volvo SUV may still be just an idea today, but everything points to it becoming a reality sooner rather than later. One question remains: can the brand reconcile extreme luxury, sustainability, and its Nordic DNA in a single vehicle?
Comparison Table
| Model | Length | Width | Wheelbase | Max Power | Electric Range | Charge 20–80% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zeekr 9X | 5.23 m | 2.03 m | 3.17 m | Up to 1,380 hp | 380 km | < 10 min |
| Future Volvo Plug-in Hybrid SUV | – | – | – | – | ≈ 100 miles | – |
Key Takeaways
- Volvo is seriously considering launching an ultra‑luxury, oversized SUV to compete with the Rolls‑Royce Cullinan and other segment giants.
- The project could lean on the Zeekr 9X’s technical platform, a Geely group vehicle launched in China.
- The vehicle would target the American and Chinese markets, major buyers of premium large SUVs.
- An upcoming plug‑in hybrid version would deliver about 100 miles of electric range, according to Volvo.
- The U.S. manufacturing push signals potential production in the United States by 2028.
- No official confirmation yet on launch timing or final specifications.
FAQ
Will Volvo launch a SUV more luxurious than the XC90?
Volvo is indeed evaluating a flagship, ultra‑luxury SUV that would be even larger than the XC90, but no official confirmation has been issued yet.
What technical platform would underlie this future Volvo SUV?
Geely’s Zeekr 9X SEA‑S 900‑volt platform could serve as the foundation for Volvo’s next flagship.
What range might the Volvo plug‑in hybrid SUV offer?
Volvo says the upcoming plug‑in hybrid could deliver around 100 miles of electric range.
Which markets is Volvo targeting with this XXL SUV?
The United States and China, both avid buyers of large premium SUVs, are primary targets for Volvo’s potential new model.
When might production of this new Volvo SUV begin?
The South Carolina plant will begin producing a new plug‑in hybrid in 2028, though it’s not confirmed whether this will be the big SUV.
