Volvo XC90: experience the sophisticated refresh of Sweden's luxury SUV

If you’re after a big, beautiful SUV that feels more like a spa on wheels than a roaring beast on the road, the newly refreshed Volvo XC90 might be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.

The Swedish carmaker has given its flagship SUV a subtle facelift. While it might not look wildly different at first glance, a lot is going on under the surface - especially when it comes to safety and luxury.

Exterior

First up, let’s talk about the looks. The XC90 has always had that simple vibe, and Volvo hasn’t tinkered with that too much.

The facelift brings a sleeker front grille, sharper “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights that are immediately noticeable even in daytime driving, and some new wheel options that give it the modern edge. It’s stylish without being flashy.

Interior 

Inside is where the magic is.

Volvo’s designers have enhanced the comfort by incorporating natural, sustainable materials, such as wool blends and genuine wood, to create a calm, clean, and spacious interior. The attention to detail is spot-on. There’s even a crystal gear shifter from Swedish glassmakers Orrefors.

Tech-wise, the XC90 is smart without being overwhelming and managing the technology is not that difficult.

The infotainment system now runs on Google’s latest Android Automotive software, which means Google Maps, Assistant, and even the Play Store are built right in. And don’t worry, iPhone users, it works with Apple CarPlay too.

Everything’s quick to respond and super easy to use, even for those who aren’t particularly tech-savvy.

Add in a powerful Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and your daily commute can definitely become a chill-out session. Who knows, in the future, Netflix could be available on the 11.2-inch central touch screen.

Safety

But Volvo has always been known for one thing above all else: safety. And the updated XC90 doesn’t disappoint in this regard.

It comes loaded with features to keep you and your passengers safe, including the latest version of Pilot Assist, which now offers smoother lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control. This is where you really start to feel the car work for you, especially around the bends.

There's also a new system that watches for potential collisions at intersections and can automatically hit the brakes if something goes wrong.

Engines

Under the bonnet, the facelifted XC90 retains its B5 mild-hybrid and T8 plug-in hybrid options, both offering a smooth and quiet ride with improved efficiency. The T8 now offers an electric-only range of more than 70km - more than enough for daily city commutes without tapping into the fuel and staying emissions-free.

All in all, the facelifted XC90 doesn’t try to be the loudest or flashiest SUV out there. Instead, it leans into what Volvo does best: effortless luxury, intelligent technology, and the brand's latest safety.

“The XC90 has always been a cornerstone of Volvo’s success in South Africa,” Grant Locke, Managing Director of VolvoCar SA, said.

“With this latest update, it remains a luxury SUV that families can trust for space, comfort, and safety, while introducing the technology and efficiency that define our next chapter.

"Alongside the fully electric EX90, the new XC90 gives South Africans the choice between advanced hybrid capability and pure electric driving, ensuring our brand is ready to meet both today’s needs and tomorrow’s expectations.”

All variants are sold with a five-year/100 000km warranty, a five-year/100 000km service plan, and five years of unlimited roadside assistance. On T8 PHEV models, the hybrid battery is covered for eight years/160 000 km.

Pricing

• XC90 B5 Plus: R1,555,500
• XC90 B5 Ultra: R1,657,500
• XC90 T8 PHEV Plus: R1,834,500
• XC90 T8 PHEV Ultra: R1,936,500