Can the 2026 Volvo XC60 Carry Skis and Gear around Aurora, CO?
Rickenbaugh Volvo Cars – Can the 2026 Volvo XC60 Carry Skis and Gear around Aurora, CO?
Planning early morning laps at Loveland, an afternoon at Eldora, or a paddleboard run at Cherry Creek State Park? If you are an in-market shopper near Aurora, CO wondering whether the 2026 Volvo XC60 can carry skis, snowboards, and everyday gear without sacrificing rear-seat comfort, the answer is yes — and it does so with simple, thoughtful solutions built for real life.
At Rickenbaugh Volvo Cars, we help shoppers test fit their actual equipment in the XC60 so there are no surprises on your first trip up I-225 to I-70. Below, we break down how the XC60’s cabin and cargo features work together to haul long items, keep passengers comfortable, and streamline loading while you juggle boots, helmets, groceries, and everything else that comes with Colorado weekends.
Why the XC60 is built for long gear
The 2026 Volvo XC60 is a midsize SUV with a spacious cargo area and smart flexibility that make packing straightforward. The load floor is flat with no lip, the tailgate is power-operated, and the rear seatbacks fold in a 40/60 split so you can configure space around your needs. Crucially for skiers and riders, there is a center through-hatch designed to carry long items while keeping the two outboard rear seats free for passengers.
- Center pass-through: Load skis or a snowboard through the center rear seat so two rear passengers can ride comfortably.
- Flexible split-folding seats: The 40/60 backrests fold together or separately to open more space without flattening the whole row.
- Flat, wide load floor: A level surface and squared opening simplify sliding in long bags and duffels.
- Hands-free tailgate: With the key on you, a forward kick under the bumper opens or closes the tailgate when your hands are full.
- LED visibility: Full LED headlights in the signature Thor’s Hammer design illuminate early-morning departures.
- High ground clearance: Confident stance and visibility when you pull into trailhead parking or unplowed lots.
When your plans demand full cargo mode — think multiple ski bags, a folded stroller, and a cooler — the XC60 offers up to 63.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. For most Aurora-area outings, though, the center pass-through is the unsung hero that saves passenger space while swallowing long items with ease.
Real-world packing scenarios for Aurora drivers
If your household rotates between school drop-offs near Southlands and weekend day trips to Summit County, here is what packing typically looks like in the XC60. One rear outboard seat can host a child seat, the other a teenager or adult, while skis or a snowboard ride through the center hatch. Boots and helmets fit in the cargo area beneath a soft bag, and you still have room for groceries on the way home.
Prefer to keep the cabin clean and carry wet skis or a sandy paddleboard outside? Our parts team can set up Volvo Genuine Accessories crossbars and a compatible roof box or board carrier. Crossbars and carriers designed for your XC60 help preserve aerodynamics and reduce wind noise — and we install and verify fit for you at our Denver location, a short drive from Aurora via I-225 and US-285.
How to use the center pass-through for skis
Volvo’s pass-through design is simple and sturdy. If you are new to it, these quick steps will help you load gear in a way that protects your interior and makes unloading at the resort or reservoir fast and tidy.
- Fold the center rear seatback to create the long opening from the cargo area into the cabin.
- Bag your skis or snowboard to keep edges from scuffing upholstery; a soft sleeve is perfect for day use.
- Slide the bag through from the tailgate, tip-first, then rest the tail on the cargo floor to avoid pressure on the seatback.
- Buckle in your rear passengers on the outboard seats; confirm belts are not pinched under the bag.
- Use the power tailgate buttons or hands-free kick to close and secure the load with both hands free.
Because the XC60’s cargo floor is wide and level, you can also stack boot bags along the sides, leaving the center channel open for skis. The flush sill helps you slide items rather than lift them, which is especially helpful in tight garage spaces common around Aurora townhomes.
Convenience that smooths every trip
The XC60 adds useful tech that turns gear days into routine days. The 11.2-inch center display with Google built-in helps you navigate to your trailhead or resort with Google Maps and voice guidance from Google Assistant. Available 360° camera on XC60 Plus enhances confidence backing into a tight spot at a busy lot. Inside, the airy cabin design and large side windows keep the space bright — helpful when you are sorting gear in the morning light.
Out front, standard LED headlights with the Thor’s Hammer signature offer a wide, consistent beam pattern. The mild hybrid powertrain is designed for smooth pull-away and stop-start operation as you weave through resort entry lines or navigate neighborhood streets near Saddle Rock or Tallyn’s Reach.
If your family’s gear list evolves — two sets of kids’ skis this year, a bike and board next — we can help you adapt the XC60 with Volvo Genuine Accessories like all-weather mats and trunk liners, crossbars, roof boxes, and carriers. Our service team installs, checks clearances, and walks you through best practices for use and care.
Want to see how your equipment fits before you decide? Bring your ski bag, board, or paddleboard to our showroom. We will demonstrate the pass-through, fold the seats, and help you load using the hands-free tailgate so you can feel how it all works in real time.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Will my skis fit through the XC60’s center pass-through without folding the rear seats?
Yes. The 2026 Volvo XC60 includes a center through-hatch in the rear seat, designed specifically for long items like skis. It allows you to keep both outboard rear seats available for passengers while your skis ride securely down the middle.
Can I use a roof box or board carrier with the 2026 XC60 if I want to keep the cabin clean?
Yes. We offer Volvo Genuine Accessories crossbars and compatible roof boxes and carriers. Our team installs and verifies fitment on your XC60, then shows you how to mount and secure your gear properly. Volvo Genuine Accessories are engineered to complement your vehicle’s design and performance.
How does the hands-free tailgate work when my arms are full of gear?
With your key on you, perform a forward kick under the center of the rear bumper to open or close the power-operated tailgate. You can also use the tailgate button, the dashboard switch, or your key fob. It is especially helpful when you are juggling boot bags, a cooler, or groceries.
Does the XC60’s Google built-in mean I can navigate without connecting my phone?
Yes. Google services are enabled through a digital services package that is included for four years on applicable XC60 models. After this period, new terms and fees will apply if you choose to renew. You can still connect your phone anytime for media or calling, and wired Apple CarPlay is standard. Google, Google Maps and Google Play are trademarks of Google LLC. Apple CarPlay and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc.
Can I carry a child seat and skis at the same time?
Yes. The center pass-through is ideal for this scenario because it keeps the two outboard rear seats free for passengers or a properly installed child seat. Always follow your child seat manufacturer’s instructions and your vehicle’s owner information for placement and installation.
If you live around Aurora, CO and want a midsize luxury SUV that can handle school-day routines and gear-heavy weekends — without compromising comfort — the 2026 Volvo XC60 delivers. The combination of a center pass-through, 40/60 split-folding rear seats, a flat and wide cargo opening, and a hands-free tailgate makes loading long items simple while keeping passengers happy.
Visit Rickenbaugh Volvo Cars in Denver to explore the XC60, try the center pass-through with your own gear, and talk with our team about setting up Volvo Genuine Accessories for your specific activities. We are here to help you find the right configuration and demonstrate packing tips that make your next Cherry Creek paddle or Summit County ski day as smooth as your weekday commute.
Features depicted may not be standard or available for all markets, equipment levels and powertrain options.
Google services are enabled through a digital services package that is included for four years. After this period, new terms and fees will apply if you choose to renew. Google, Google Maps and Google Play are trademarks of Google LLC. Apple CarPlay and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc. Android Auto and Android are trademarks of Google LLC.
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