What's all this about?

Volvo has unveiled its updated XC90 SUV, which promises to keep the bloodline fresh after almost 10 years of service, despite the arrival of the new EX90 electric SUV. Although it’s based on the same platform as the existing car, and it looks much the same, Volvo is promising it will be “at the top of its game” and a “crucial driver of volume and profit” for the coming years.

It doesn't look much different. What's changed?

No, but Volvo is adamant that things have been improved. The lights and nose have been revamped in line with Volvo’s electric car line-up, which includes the EC40, EX40 and EX90, while there are new tail lights and new wheels, as well as the introduction of a new Mulberry Red colour scheme.

Inside, Volvo has revamped the cabin with a more horizontal dashboard and more textured materials, while there’s an improved central tunnel layout with improved storage and a more convenient wireless phone charging unit. But the highlight is arguably the new 11.2-inch free-standing touchscreen with Volvo’s latest user interface and Google Maps, Google Play and Google Assistant built in.

Is that it?

Not quite. Volvo has given the XC90 a few other upgrades, including state-of-the-art air purification tech that can be pre-set using a smartphone app to ensure the cabin is at the correct temperature and has clean air before the driver gets in. For even greater comfort, Volvo has made sure the seats are ergonomically designed for maximum support, and there’s seat heating in the front and rear, as well as ventilation for the front seats.

Volvo has improved sound insulation, too, and there’s a large panoramic glass roof, while the oily parts have been tended to with upgrades to the standard suspension for improved ride comfort. Volvo has also put more emphasis on sustainable materials, with bio-attributed Nordico and Herringbone Weave textiles on offer to customers.

If it's not electric, what's under the bonnet?

XC90 customers get a choice of three powertrains, but all three are based around the same 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that drives all four wheels. The basic B4 is a mild-hybrid that provides 250hp, while the mid-range B5 is also a mild-hybrid, but it comes with 300hp. And there’s the T8 plug-in hybrid system that will already be familiar to many XC90 owners. Using a 2.0-litre petrol engine, a rechargeable battery and an electric motor, the system will allow the XC90 to cover more than 40 miles on electrical power alone, as well as providing an ample 145hp from its electric motor. But the petrol engine adds a further 310hp to that, giving the car healthy performance, including a 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds.

So why would you have one over an EX90?

An excellent question, but one that essentially boils down to powertrains. If you want electric power, get the EX90, but if you don’t, the mild- and plug-in hybrid power in the XC90 will be a better bet.

When can I have one?

The new XC90 will go into production in November 2024, with the order books set to open sometime between now and then. Pricing is still to be confirmed.

James Fossdyke - 4 Sep 2024