The Volvo XC60 towing capacity... is it even a thing? Of course it is! The Volvo XC60 can tow perfectly and efficiently, just like other same-class SUVs. Your Volvo XC60 may look dashing and elegant, but she is also rugged and capable when it comes to tackling tough towing jobs. And, you will get an admirable Volvo XC60 towing capacity without sacrificing efficient gas mileage. If you own a Volvo XC60 or are looking to buy one, keep reading to find out more information regarding what you can tow and how you can do it safely.

Table of contents

2015-2021 XC60 Limits

2015-2021 Owner's Manual

Safety Info

Tongue Weight

The Basics: Numbers, Accessories, and More

Let's cut to the chase. Your Volvo XC60 towing capacity is rated for 3,500 lbs.¹ Now, this number can fluctuate a bit depending on accessories and configurations. For example, your towing capacity without brakes is rated for 1,650 lbs. from 2015 through 2021. Older models can usually get up to either 3,300 lbs. or 3,500 lbs. depending on the size of the hitch ball you have.

Your 2021 Volvo XC60 towing capacity is partially ready for any towing task when you first purchase it. All new models come already wired for towing. You can also purchase a Volvo XC60 towing package that includes a hitch and connectors. Contact us if this is something you would like to further look into or purchase!

We have more detailed information about towing capacity numbers for different years and configurations below. Do not forget to check the owner's manual for your specific year, trim, and package for exact towing capabilities.

Important Information From Your Owner's Manual

There is a lot of important information that your owner's manual for the Volvo XC60 includes. Below, we have included some of the most vital info for you to know before you tow. Read this information, courtesy of the 2021 Volvo XC60 Owner's Manual,² carefully before you embark on your towing journey.

• Towbars used on the vehicle must be approved for the applicable use.
• Distribute the load on the trailer so that the weight on the towbar complies with the specified maximum tow ball weight.
• The tongue weight is calculated as part of the vehicle's payload.
• Increase the tire pressure to the recommended pressure for a full load.
• The engine is subjected to more loads than usual when towing a trailer.
• Towing a trailer affects the vehicle's handling, durability, and driving economy.
• Do not drive with a heavy trailer when the vehicle is very new. Wait until the mileage has reached at least 1000 km (620 miles).
• On long and steep downgrades, the vehicle's brakes are subjected to a higher load than usual. When manually shifting, downshift and adapt speed accordingly.
• Follow applicable regulations regarding permitted speed and weight.
• Drive slowly when towing a trailer up a long and steep incline.
• The maximum trailer weights given only apply to altitudes up to 1000 meters (3280 feet) above sea level. At higher altitudes, engine power (and thus the vehicle's climbing ability) is decreased due to the reduced air density, and the maximum trailer weight must therefore be reduced. The weight of the vehicle and trailer must be decreased by 10% for each additional 1000 meters.
• Avoid driving with a trailer on inclines of more than 12%.
• Avoid overloading and other incorrect use.
• The trailer's brakes must be balanced with the vehicle's brakes to help ensure safe stops (follow applicable local regulations).

FAQs

What is the towing capacity of the Volvo XC60?

The towing capacity for the Volvo XC60 is rated for 3,500 lbs.¹ with brakes. Without brakes, she is rated for just 1,650 lbs.¹ When you tow, make sure you're taking into account the weight of the entire load, not just a trailer when it is empty. It is vital that you do not exceed the max towing capacity because it could cause massive damage to your trailer, your vehicle, and other people on the road. If you need help figuring out how much weight you will be towing in total, get in touch with us, and we can help with the calculations.

What is tongue weight? What is the tongue capacity on the Volvo XC60?

Tongue weight refers to the weight that a loaded trailer exerts downward onto the hitch ball of your vehicle. You can change your tongue weight by removing items from a trailer or redistributing how things are arranged on your trailer. The tongue capacity for the Volvo XC60 is 350 lbs. It is important to keep the tongue capacity in mind when you are loading up a trailer. If your tongue capacity is over the limit, it could cause poor performance in your vehicle. If your tongue capacity is too far under the limit, your trailer could sway uncontrollably while driving.

What is the MPG for a Volvo XC60?

If you check out our Volvo XC60 MPG overview, you'll find out everything you need to know regarding your MPG. On a standard drive, you can get up to 22 city/29 highway MPG.³ These numbers will vary a bit since it takes a lot of power to pull 3,500 lbs. behind your vehicle, but you'll still be driving incredibly efficiently.

Tow Safely With Your Volvo XC60

We hope now that you know your Volvo XC60 towing capacity, along with other important facts and figures, you will be confident the next time (or the first time) you set out to tow. We want you to be as comfortable while towing as you are when sitting in the luxurious Volvo XC60 interior. If there is anything else you'd like to know about how to tow safely, call us. We can explain how to tow safely and tell you what all the different capacities mean more in-depth. Don't hesitate to let us know!

¹When properly equipped.

²Citation: Information taken directly from the 2021 Volvo XC60 Owner's Manual. See the digital version for more information.

³Estimated city and highway mpg. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy combinations. Estimated city/highway mpg based on base engine and transmission combinations. Your actual mileage will vary.