Is Standard All-Wheel Drive on the 2026 Volvo XC60 Ready for Winter in Colorado Springs, CO?

*Not actual model

Bob Penkhus Volvo Cars - Is Standard All-Wheel Drive on the 2026 Volvo XC60 Ready for Winter in Colorado Springs, CO?

When winter arrives on the Front Range, traction and predictability matter. The 2026 Volvo XC60 equips every trim with standard all-wheel drive, making it an appealing choice for drivers who navigate dry pavement during the week and snow-packed roads on weekends. Volvo’s AWD continuously monitors wheel slip and actively allocates power to maintain grip, which is valuable as temperatures swing and conditions change between neighborhoods, interstates, and foothills. Add in Volvo’s balanced chassis tuning—refined, calm, and composed—and the XC60 delivers a confidence-inspiring drive that doesn’t trade comfort for capability.

Safety is an integral layer in winter, and the XC60’s standard driver-assistance features add meaningful support. Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection can help in low-visibility scenarios, while lane-keeping assist and lane-departure warning provide helpful guardrails on longer drives. Available adaptive cruise control with a semi-autonomous driving mode takes the edge off stop-and-go traffic on I-25, and the optional 360-degree camera system improves awareness when maneuvering in snowy parking lots. Inside, the new 11.2-inch touchscreen responds quickly with crisp visuals, so essential functions—defrosters, cameras, and navigation—are just a tap away. For families, five-passenger comfort and flexible cargo space make winter gear, grocery runs, and school pickups easier to manage.

• AWD fundamentals: The XC60’s all-wheel drive automatically shifts torque to the wheels with the most traction, improving confidence on snow and ice.
• Chassis composure: Steering that feels precise and a well-planted stance contribute to stability on uneven or slick surfaces.
• Cold-weather visibility: The available 360-degree camera system and clear, fast-loading camera views on the 11.2-inch screen help with tight, snowy maneuvers.
• Driver assistance: Standard automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist add protective layers during winter commutes.
• Connectivity under pressure: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep routes and communication flowing when weather complicates schedules.

To get the most from AWD in winter, match your tires to your conditions. Dedicated winter tires can provide a significant traction advantage in sustained cold or heavy snow, while high-quality all-weather tires may be well-suited to mixed conditions. The XC60’s available laminated glass contributes to a quieter cabin, which is especially welcome when the wind picks up. And because the touchscreen now operates faster with improved clarity, it’s easier to access defrost settings and camera views quickly—small gains that add up when conditions are stressful. For many households, this combination of traction, tuning, and tech makes the XC60 an easy SUV to live with from the first flurry to spring thaw.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is the 2026 XC60’s AWD always on, or does it engage only when slip is detected?

The XC60’s all-wheel drive system actively monitors conditions and can reallocate power to maintain traction. It operates seamlessly, enhancing stability in the background without the driver needing to engage a separate mode.

Which driver-assistance features are standard for winter confidence?

Standard features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Available adaptive cruise control with a semi-autonomous driving mode supports longer winter drives, and an optional 360-degree camera system helps with low-speed maneuvering in snow.

Does the 11.2-inch touchscreen work well with gloves?

While capacitive screens are most responsive to direct touch, the XC60’s larger display, faster operating speeds, and clearer visuals make it easier to use with brief, intentional inputs. Many owners keep a pair of thin, touchscreen-friendly gloves in the console during winter.

Where can I test drive an AWD 2026 XC60 and explore winter tire options?

Bob Penkhus Volvo Cars offers standard AWD XC60 models for test drives and can connect you with winter or all-weather tire guidance through our service team. We are serving Castle Rock, Monument, and Colorado Springs with expertise tailored to Colorado’s winter realities.

Request more 2026 Volvo XC60 information