2025 Volvo XC90 touches down with improvements across the board

Volvo has once again facelifted its gas-powered flagship – the XC90 SUV.

Revised bumpers, a different radiator grille and new headlights lend the crossover a fresh appearance for the next model year. Inside, redesigned elements include the dashboard and the center tunnel with extra cup holders added in. The wireless smartphone charger has been moved to a new position.

The infotainment display is no longer built into the console, but stands alone. It has grown in size from 9 inches to 11.2 and received a new matrix that’s approximately 20% better in terms of resolution. Perhaps most importantly, Volvo has optimized the UI and UX to allow easier app access and drive mode selection.

The B5 modification of the SUV packs 250 PS (247 hp / 184 kW) and 360 Nm (266 lb-ft) of torque. Its senior cousin, B6, delivers 300 PS (296 hp / 221 kW) to the wheels along with 420 Nm (310 lb-ft). Both receive assistance from a 48V starter-generator rated at 14 PS (14 hp / 10 kW) and 40 Nm (30 lb-ft). The part-time AWD system on board connects the rear axle when needed. The bad news for customers in Europe is that neither the B5 nor the B6 will be offered in the Old World countries.

And then there is the T8, a plug-in hybrid that combines a turbo four-pot driving the front wheels with a dedicated electric motor driving the rear ones. The engine makes 310 PS (306 hp / 228 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque, while the motor adds 145 PS (143 hp / 107 kW) and 309 Nm (228 lb-ft) of its own.

The traction battery is located inside the transmission tunnel and stores up to 14.7 kilowatt-hours – a welcome upgrade from the former 9.2 kWh. As a result, the bulky SUV has a WLTP range of 63 km (39 miles) on electricity alone, or 800+ km (500+ miles) in hybrid mode.

Volvo points out tweaks to the adaptive shocks that make them individually react to the changing road conditions up to 500 times per second. Those who opted for air-ride suspension will be able to increase the ride height by up to 40 mm (1.6”) from the default setting or drop it by up to 20 mm (1.2”).

Preorders are already being processed. The production and the first shipments are scheduled to begin later this year.