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New Volvo XC90 Facelift Revealed – Elegance Overloaded
Volvo has unveiled a significantly updated version of its XC90 SUV, featuring notable design and technology enhancements. Despite these updates, the XC90 continues to utilise the SPA1 platform and offers a choice between a plug-in hybrid and two mild-hybrid four-wheel-drive powertrains.
Exterior
The refreshed XC90's exterior now aligns more closely with the EX90 and other recent Volvo models. Changes include a redesigned engine grille, 'Thor's hammer' headlights, new wheels ranging from 20 to 22 inches, and updated rear lights. Inside, the cabin has been subtly refreshed with a new horizontal design and textured materials like Nordico and Herringbone Weave upholstery.
Interior
Inside, one of the most significant changes is the new 11.2-inch touchscreen with higher resolution and Google-based software similar to that in the EX90. This system supports over-the-air updates and requires fewer presses to access key functions. The centre console has also been reshaped to include a '2+1' cup holder and wireless smartphone charger.
Powertrain Options
The top-tier T8 plug-in hybrid remains in the lineup, featuring a 310hp four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine paired with a 145hp electric motor. This combination provides an electric-only range of 70km, with its 14.7kWh battery capable of reaching full charge in about three hours using an AC fast charger.
The two mild hybrids use a four-cylinder turbo petrol engine coupled with an integrated starter generator. The entry-level B5 produces 250hp, while the B6, enhanced by an e-supercharger, delivers 300hp. Both engines have been reworked to use the Miller combustion cycle for better fuel efficiency, achieving official fuel economies of 14kpl for the B5 and 13.5kpl for the B6.
Mechanical Enhancements
Volvo has added extra sound insulation to make the XC90's ride quieter. The standard suspension has been revised with a new double-wishbone setup at the front and an integral link at the rear, along with frequency-selective damping. These updates are said to improve ride comfort and stability. An electronically-controlled air suspension remains an optional feature, scanning the road 500 times per second.
Future Plans
Volvo CEO Jim Rowan hinted that hybrid models might continue beyond their initial plan to sell only EVs from 2030 due to market conditions. "We are not dogmatic about our 2030 ambitions," Rowan stated in an interview with Autocar UK. "Most important is that we provide products that our customers want."
The XC90 facelift will be available in five, six, or seven-seat configurations. The mild hybrids offer 680 litres of space behind the second row or 640 litres in the PHEV version. With all seats in place, there is still ample storage space-302 litres for mild hybrids and 262 litres for PHEVs.
India Launch Prospects
Production of the updated XC90 is set to begin later this year globally, with initial deliveries expected before year-end in select markets. Although an India launch hasn't been confirmed yet, it seems likely given that the pre-facelift model is currently available at Rs 1.01 crore (ex-showroom). The refreshed XC90 will continue competing against BMW X5, Mercedes GLE, and Audi Q7 in India.
The decision to maintain hybrid powertrains reflects Volvo's strategy for flexibility during its transition to electric vehicles (EVs). While they aim for full electrification by this decade's end, they acknowledge potential delays due to market infrastructure or customer acceptance issues.
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