Volvo XC60 II (UZ) (2017 – 2025)

Reliability score : 7.4/10

The second-generation Volvo XC60 (internal code UZ), built on the SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) platform, represents a major leap in premium positioning, safety, and design for the Swedish brand. Launched in 2017, it exclusively utilizes Volvo's VEA (Volvo Engine Architecture) 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines across all powertrains. A significant facelift occurred in 2021 (Model Year 2022), introducing mild-hybrid (MHEV) 'B' badges to replace traditional 'D' (Diesel) and 'T' (Petrol) monikers, alongside a shift from the Sensus infotainment system to an Android Automotive OS. While this sheet covers all global powertrains, special focus is given to the diesel variants (D3, D4, D5, and later B4/B5 MHEV diesels), which were highly popular in Europe but require specific maintenance awaren

✅ Strengths

Class-leading safety features and crash test ratings (City Safety system).
Exceptional seat comfort and high-quality Scandinavian interior design.
Excellent 8-speed Aisin automatic transmission (smooth and reliable).
Strong towing capacity, especially on D5 and B5 diesel models.
Outstanding rust protection and paint quality.

⚠️ Weaknesses

EGR and intake manifold soot issues on pre-2020 diesel engines.
PowerPulse hose detachment is a frustrating and recurring issue on D5/B5 diesels.
Infotainment system (both Sensus and early Android) can be slow to boot and prone to glitches.
High maintenance and spare parts costs, on par with German premium rivals.
PHEV models suffer from ERAD and High Voltage Coolant Heater (HVCH) failures.

🎯 Verdict

The Volvo XC60 Mk2 is a superb premium SUV that prioritizes comfort, safety, and design over outright sporty driving dynamics. If you are specifically looking for a diesel, the later B4 or B5 MHEV diesels (2020+) are highly recommended as they resolved the severe EGR and intake manifold melting issues of the early D4/D5 models. If buying a 2017-2019 D4 or D5, it is absolutely critical to verify that the EGR recall has been completed and that the car has been driven primarily on highways. The D5's PowerPulse system remains a minor but annoying weak point. Overall, a well-maintained XC60 diesel is a fantastic long-distance cruiser, but urban buyers should strictly look at the petrol or PHEV variants.