► Refreshed looks and lightly upgraded cabin
► Better suspension even on standard models
► Price TBC, production begins in late 2024
Hold up, the stylish Swedes have given the XC90 a facelift and its looking sleeker than ever. OK, the changes to the outside aren’t huge (and they’ve partly been carried out to bring the XC90 closer in line with the all-electric EX90) but they’re just enough to stave off any accusations that Volvo’s large SUV is looking long in the tooth.
On the outside, there’s a new grille design with slimmer headlights featuring a new iteration of the Thor’s Hammer LED signature, while the bonnet and front wings have also been updated. There’s a new alloy wheel design on offer, a new colour (Mulberry Red) and darkened rear lamps.
What are the changes to the interior?
Storage has been improved thanks to a reconfigured central tunnel design with a 2+1 cupholder that can now take skinny drinks cans. There’s also a better location for the wireless phone charger (forward of the gearlever), a new dashboard design, upgraded ambient lighting and refreshed upholstery options including bio-attributed Nordico and Navy Herringbone Weave.
Volvo’s also gone to the trouble of improving the central touchscreen. Now 11.2-inches rather than 9, it’s got a greater pixel density and is more responsive to inputs. Users will also spot a new interface – as seen on the EX90 and EX30 – and an upgraded 360-degree camera with split screen.
Any modifications under the skin?
Changes have been made to the suspension setup, meaning you now get double-wishbone hardware at the front and a new integral link system at the rear in order to improve stability and traction while towing. The standard suspension system also now features Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) tech for better ride comfort, while improved sound insulation aims to give a quieter driving experience.
As for the engines, the XC90 offers a choice of three. These are the straightforward petrol B5 and B6 AWD variants – delivering 181bhp and 217bhp respectively and a flagship plug-in hybrid T8 AWD with a combined 449bhp and an all-electric range of around 44 miles.
How much will it cost and what are the rivals?
Volvo has yet to release a price tag for the updated XC90 yet but expect it to come in at slightly more than the pre-facelift variant that started at just over £52k. Order books are open now with production starting later in 2024. The XC90 will be available with 5,6 and 7 seats and as such rivals include the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Land Rover Discovery and Mercedes-Benz GLE.
