The Volvo XC90 first appeared locally in 2002, with the Scandinavian brand under Ford's custodianship. In 2010, Volvo was acquired by the Zhejiang Geely Holding Group or Geely. In 2015, the second generation of the XC90 was introduced with a new platform and a plug-in hybrid drivetrain added to the range.
Related: Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine AWD Ultimate Dark - The Ultimate 7 Seater Hybrid SUV?
Now, six years after its last facelift, Volvo has added even more refinement to the range, and below is what it entails. But before we get into the details, remember that you can sell your car quickly and easily on our website here. You can also search for new or used Volvo XC90 models on AutoTrader here.
Styling
Quickly noticeable from the outside is the new front grille, which now has a very modern design with diagonal lines. It is flanked by newly designed and more aggressive Matrix LED headlamps, which are standard across the range. Also standard across the range is the "Thor's hammer" LED daytime running lights, which also got a redesign.
Down the sides, you will notice new wheel designs. The entire range comes fitted with 21-inch wheels as standard; however, 22-inch wheels are optionally available. The taillamps at the rear of the XC90 have a darkened style, which adds to the premium look. While the XC90 retains most original themes, these touches elevate the model's curb appeal.
Interior
The interior is of premium Volvo quality as usual, from the soft-touch surfaces across the cabin to the Orrefors Sweden crystal gear knob. Quickly noticeable is the new tablet-style 11.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The unit comes installed with a Google-based operating system, similar to that found in the electric EX30 range, but modified to provide functionality for the mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
This infotainment system is said to be faster than the outgoing unit and should offer more comprehensive menus. If you select the Plus trim level, the system is paired with a 600-watt, 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system; however, customers of the Ultra grade benefit from a 1410-watt, 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins high-fidelity sound system.
Another new option for the XC90 is that customers can opt for Nordico upholstery, which is made from recycled materials instead of the leather upholstery that features as standard.
Powertrains
The Volvo XC90 has two powertrain configurations. The first is the B5 Mild Hybrid unit, which consists of a 2.0-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder petrol engine coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This sends the 183 kW and 350 Nm of torque to all four wheels.
However, if you choose the T8 derivatives, you will get a 2.0-litre, supercharged, and turbocharged (twin-charged) engine combined with an electric motor. This plug-in hybrid also gets a larger battery for around 70km of full electric driving. This engine also sends propulsion to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic; however, this engine and electric motor combination produces 340kW and 709Nm of torque.
The drive
With around 9km of driving distance completed per driver, it isn't easy to provide accurate fuel consumption figures; however, once we get a test unit, we will report back on that. But over even such a short distance, it was quick to ascertain that the build quality on the interior is as good as you would expect from such a premium brand.
Noise, vibration, and harshness are well taken care of. Regarding the driving feel, you still feel the weight of the seven-seater; however, the air suspension fitted as standard across the range does a good job of refining the ride while mitigating bodyroll. That air suspension also allows you to go from a more aerodynamic 212mm of ground clearance to 252mm, should you need to tackle some rougher surfaces.
The plug-in hybrid T8 we drove offers quick acceleration, and the torque keeps pushing on steep inclines. The engine and transmission are responsive and more than ample for daily commuting.
Price
The Volvo XC90 range comes standard with a 5-year / 100 000km vehicle warranty and a 5-year / 100 000km service plan. The T8 plug-in hybrid derivatives additionally come with an 8-year / 160 000km hybrid battery warranty.
| Volvo XC90 B5 AWD Plus Dark | from R 1 555 500 |
| Volvo XC90 B5 AWD Ultra Dark | from R 1 657 500 |
| Volvo XC90 T8 Plug-In Hybrid AWD Plus Bright | from R 1 834 500 |
| Volvo XC90 T8 Plug-In Hybrid AWD Ultra Dark | from R 1 936 500 |
*Pricing was correct at the time of writing; however, it can change at any time and without notice.
Verdict
Since its original launch in 2002, the Volvo XC90 has been a well-built and stylish premium SUV. Although the model has been around for a long time, the updates to the range and, more importantly, the continued investment in hybrid technology are welcomed. While Volvo is always in the top tiers of EV sales locally, for customers who enjoy the quality and design of Volvo products but are not yet ready to transition to full EVs, the XC90 plug-in hybrid might just be exactly what you want.
