Volvo has taken the wraps off its heavily reworked XC90 SUV, which features several changes, including updates to its design and technology. However, the Volvo XC90 facelift continues to use the same SPA1 platform and retains a choice of a plug-in hybrid and two mild-hybrid four-wheel-drive powertrains.
- Volvo likely to continue selling hybrids after 2030
- XC90 T8 gets 310hp turbo-petrol, paired with a 145hp motor
- Updated suspension said to improve ride and stability
Volvo XC90 facelift: powertrains
The decision to continue with hybrid powertrains comes as Volvo seeks flexibility amid the transition to EVs. The company had previously stated that it would sell only EVs from 2030 onwards, but with the slowdown in the global EV market, Volvo CEO Jim Rowan has now suggested that the company might continue selling some hybrid models beyond that date.
The XC90 line-up will continue to be topped by the T8 plug-in hybrid, which comes with a 310hp four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine and a 145hp electric motor. The T8 offers an electric-only range of 70km and its 14.7kWh (total) battery can be charged up to 100 percent in around three hours via an AC fast charger.
The two mild hybrids use a four-cylinder turbo petrol engine, mated to an integrated starter generator. The entry-level B5 makes 250hp, while an e-supercharger lifts the B6 to 300hp. Volvo claims that the mild-hybrid engines have been reworked to use the Miller combustion cycle, which optimises fuel efficiency. The B5 has an official fuel economy of 14kpl and the B6 of 13.5kpl.
Volvo XC90 facelift: mechanical changes
The brand says that extra sound insulation has been added to the XC90 to make its ride quieter, while Volvo has also revised the standard suspension with a new double-wishbone arrangement up front, an integral link at the rear, and frequency-selective damping. Volvo claims the updates improve ride comfort and stability. The electronically-controlled air suspension will remain an optional extra; it uses a system that scans the road 500 times per second.
Volvo XC90 facelift: interior, exterior changes
The exterior of the XC90 has been restyled to align more closely with the EX90 and other recent Volvo models. This includes a revised engine grille, ‘Thor’s hammer’ headlights, new wheels (sizes range from 20 inches to 22 inches), and revised rear lights.
The cabin has also received a minor refresh, again inspired by the EX90. There’s a new horizontal design and more textured materials, including the option of ‘responsibly produced’ Nordico and Herringbone Weave upholstery. The centre console has been reshaped and now features a ‘2+1’ cup holder and a wireless smartphone charger.
The biggest change on the inside is the new 11.2-inch touchscreen. It's of higher resolution and uses the same Google-based software as the EX90, allowing for over-the-air updates. Volvo also claimed the reworked operating system, means it requires fewer presses to access key functions.
The XC90 will continue to be offered with five, six, or seven seats. There are 680 litres of space behind the second row in the mild hybrids or 640 litres in the PHEV. With the third row in place, there is 302 litres and 262 litres of space, respectively.
Volvo XC90 facelift: India launch
Production of the XC90 facelift is due to start later this year in international markets, with first deliveries due in select regions before the end of the year. An India launch for the refreshed XC90 has not yet been confirmed, but considering the pre-facelift model is on sale here – priced at Rs 1.01 crore (ex-showroom, India) – the refreshed SUV could be brought to the country. It’ll continue to rival the likes of the BMW X5, Mercedes GLE, and Audi Q7 in India.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
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