Volvo XC90, the big Swedish SUV gets an update outside and inside, now offering only petrol hybrid engines.

The number 90 is the fil-rouge that binds the novelties that Volvo is presenting in this last part of 2024, and it is linked to the brand's larger SUVs. In fact, while the first tests of the electric EX90 statically unveiled almost two years ago continue apace in California, the Swedish manufacturer is unveiling the revamped second-generation XC90, which arrives nine years after the last update.

The 2024 edition XC90 is in essence a major evolution of the one sold so far, as was already anticipated a couple of years ago by Volvo's then No. 1, Hakan Samuelsson. Now, just as the electric EX90 suv is being unveiled, confidence in its alternative with thermal engines, albeit electrified, is reconfirmed. A choice inspired by the fact that, as demonstrated in recent years, the XC90 with mild and plug-in hybrid engines has always been in demand, especially in North America and China, as well as by what has become increasingly apparent in recent times. Namely, that the electric transition is not a worldwide affair and that it runs on a rather winding road. However, the debut of the revamped XC90 was positively influenced by that of its electric alter-ego and that of smaller Volvos such as the compact battery-powered EX30 SUV, from which it inherits styling details and state-of-the-art technology.

Dimensionally the same as the previous XC90 with a length of just under five metres, the revamped XC90, which continues to be based on the Spa modular architecture, is recognisable in particular by the appearance of the front end which, in essence, embodies the family style of the most recent Volvos and which will also characterise future models. The new front end is the result of more taut lines than in the past that generate cleaner surfaces substantially aligned with Scandinavian minimalist design, a clamshell bonnet that rests laterally on newly shaped mudguards, a larger grille with an asymmetrical weave that links up with the new light signature, characterised by clusters still inspired by Thor's hammer but slimmer and sharper. Also new is the bumper shield traversed at the bottom by a long air intake that accentuates the width of the XC90 and at the sides by vertical air intakes. To the side and rear, the new features only concern details and, in practice, do not affect the appearance of the XC90.

The upgrade of the interior of the XC90, which can seat up to seven people on three rows of seats, is due in particular to the new horizontally unfolding dashboard that houses a vertical touch display in the centre derived from that of the EX90, which is now 11.2" instead of the 9" infotainment screen. On request, however, you can also have the 14.5" screen like the EX90's. The device developed by Android Automotive is always connected, uses Google software, and has a graphic interface that facilitates human-system interaction by offering the most frequently used apps and functions on the home screen to avoid rushing through the menus and, for example, avoiding having to use one function to activate another. The picture is completed by the context bar that changes the display according to the situation, showing recently used apps and bringing into view, for example, the icon of the exterior cameras when manoeuvring in tight spaces. The central display also activates the driving modes and configurations dedicated to plug-in hybrid engines. The revamped cabin also brings to the XC90 a new console between the front seats that also houses the wireless charging pad for smartphones, new colour schemes, eco-friendly upholstery, remote-activated climate control and laminated side windows for increased comfort.

A factor to which the XC90 also devotes the revised stance, now complemented by a new rear suspension architecture and mechanical dampers that vary calibration according to driving and road conditions. An electronically controlled pneumatic self-levelling system is available as an option. Under the bonnet of the XC90, which is only available with all-wheel drive, there are now only 2-litre Miller cycle petrol hybrid engines mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The offering starts with the new mild hybrids with 48V technology in the B5 and B6 versions. The former with 250 horsepower is powered by a turbocharged unit, the latter offering 300 horsepower uses an engine supercharged by a volumetric compressor and a turbocharger. At the top of the range is the already well-known T8 plug-in hybrid variant with 455 horsepower, which offers the possibility of driving in electric mode for more than 70 kilometres. The new XC90 series also offers upgraded safety and driver assistance systems, thanks to the adoption of the latest generation of radar and a front camera.