Volvo XC90 Expert Review

Updated in 2025, the XC90 sees most updates up front, where a flatter, wider grille with Volvo’s iron mark is now flanked by streaked elements. Slim new headlights (retaining the Thor’s hammer motif) and a neater bumper give the XC90 a fresh look. In profile, new 20-inch wheels are the giveaway, while at the rear, tweaked tail-lamps round out the update. The XC90 remains clean-cut and upright in stance, which many will appreciate.

The cabin gets notable changes, including a reworked dashboard with broader surfaces and a larger 11.2-inch vertical touchscreen that dominates the centre console. Front seat comfort, true to Volvo tradition, is excellent.
 

Middle-row space is good, though the seat is a bit low-set. The third row remains a USP but is best for short stints due to tricky access. Still, there’s usable luggage space behind, and folding rows two and three creates a vast load area.

The XC90 for India continues with the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol mild-hybrid ‘B5’ engine, delivering 250hp and 360Nm. Performance is adequate for daily driving, and the 0-100kph time of 7.94 seconds is respectable. However, compared to rivals’ six-cylinder engines, the XC90 lacks punch and sounds strained under load. The 8-speed auto isn’t the smoothest either.

Expect 5-7kpl in the city and up to 10kpl on relaxed highway runs—typical for a large petrol SUV.

The XC90 is on the back foot here. Its air suspension feels firm on less-than-perfect roads, and road noise is more pronounced than expected. While modes help fine-tune the setup, it doesn’t quite match rivals for outright comfort or sportiness.

Not only is the centre touchscreen larger, it also makes the switch to an Android system. The screen is easy to use thanks to large tiles, though more physical climate controls would be helpful. Also, Apple CarPlay still needs a wired connection, which is an irritant.

Features include Nappa leather, front seats with massage, digital dials (with two layouts), heads-up display, four-zone climate control, air purifier, panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, and a sensational 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system. Safety kit is top-notch, with a full suite of ADAS tech.

At Rs 1.03 crore (ex-showroom), the XC90 is more expensive than some rivals but makes up with its design, tech-rich interior, and safety suite. It undoubtedly lacks outright performance but those not prioritising power might find the XC90 an appealing and well-rounded luxury SUV.