Once defined by sturdy estates, Volvo reinvented itself in 2002 by applying its safe, sensible ethos to the SUV market. The XC90 was not only a success but also revived the brand, proving that an SUV can embody subtlety – something of an oxymoron.
Remarkably, the XC90 is still in its second generation, a testament to its enduring popularity. While newer rivals offer sharper handling or more aggressive pricing, the XC90 remains the go-to choice for many, often cited by engineers at competing brands as the gold standard for seven-seat SUVs.
When it comes to the merits of the XC90, I have personal experience, having owned an aged XC90 which I bought from friends. It was several years old when we got it, but it served us well: certainly not sporty, incredibly thirsty, but remarkably practical and comfy. So when the recipe works, the trick is to keep it up to date on the tech and engineering end, while trying not to mess up the magic.
In the age of EVs, Volvo has developed an all-electric version in the form of the EX90, which we reviewed some months back. But the XC90 is an institution: to relegate it from the line-up would have been commercial madness. Instead, it gets a refresh, with new design touches, suspension tweaks and an updated cabin.
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The most evident change is to the front nose, with an impressive new grille paired with Volvo’s signature “Thor’s Hammer” headlights. As with the rear silhouette, even from a distance it means this is distinctively a Volvo.
The cabin draws inspiration from the all-electric EX90, particularly for its infotainment system, controlled via the portrait-style 11.2-inch central screen. Volvo’s struggle to balance physical buttons with digital controls has been a point of criticism, especially in models like the EX30. However, in the XC90, the balance feels just right, complemented by smoother controls and improved finishes.
The regular suspension set-up has also been improved. Our test car featured air suspension, but even the standard setup benefits from frequency selective damping. This system adjusts to road conditions, softening for small bumps and firming up for sharper turns, ensuring a comfortable and stable ride for families.
Power comes from a 2-litre 310hp (228kW) four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, and a 107kW electric motor supported by a lithium-ion battery capable of delivering net 15kWh. That combination claims an electric-only range of about 65km before the engine must lend a hand.
In theory, the XC90 PHEV can get from 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds, but who is going to be doing that?
On slippery Swedish roads, the XC90 gripped well – four-wheel drive is standard – but throughout our time in the car, its character was clear: this car is all about comfort. From the suspension set-up to the steering feel, it’s about relaxed mile-munching, not racing through the bends.
Though Volvo engineers say they spent a lot of time improving the cabin quietness, some of that refinement is lost when the four-cylinder engine kicks in.
The electric range is also not best in class. While packing the battery into the central console makes sense for space, 65km is some ways behind similar-sized plug-in rivals.
With the facelift, Volvo has managed to do just that: deliver improved Scandinavian design chic, a cleaner cabin and a touch more comfort.
The facelifted XC90 delivers refined Scandinavian design, a sleeker cabin, and enhanced comfort. However, starting at €100,000, it’s a luxury purchase rather than a budget-friendly family hauler.
For those who can afford it, the XC90′s blend of understated style, practicality and comfort ensures that it retains its appeal, even after more than two decades as a fixture on our roads. In this car, Volvo shows how to evolve without losing your identity.
