- The XC90 gains cleaner design details, a calmer cabin, and Volvo’s latest infotainment system, while retaining its seven-seat practicality.
- Available as a mild-hybrid (B5) or a plug-in hybrid (T8 PHEV) with over 70 km electric range, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
- Generously equipped across all trims, with personalisation options, advanced driver support systems, and Volvo’s hallmark safety features.
Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) is introducing the refined XC90 to the local market, its flagship seven-seater SUV that builds on the brand’s reputation for comfort, safety and sensible efficiency. The refresh brings cleaner lines, a calmer cabin, and our latest user experience, while preserving the XC90’s practical spirit and long-distance capability.
Electric first for everyday driving
In Pure mode, the XC90 T8 PHEV offers over 70km of electric range on the WLTP Cycle, making many daily trips emissions-free. Real-world data indicates that a significant portion of the distance in modern plug-in hybrids is driven on electric power. Therefore, the XC90 is designed to be an efficient everyday car and a long-range companion when needed. For extended journeys, the hybrid powertrain combines the electric system with a petrol engine to deliver a driving range of over 800 km. Drivers can call on full combined power for constant all-wheel drive when the road gets rough.
Choice and efficiency for different needs
Locally, the XC90 will continue to be offered with mild-hybrid petrol (B5) options alongside the plug-in hybrid (T8). The B5 variant pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48-volt battery and integrated starter generator (ISG) to reduce fuel use in everyday driving. Outputs of 183 kW and 350 N.m of torque ensure strong performance, while also delivering frugal fuel economy, with a manufacturer’s estimated fuel consumption of 8.1 L/100 km.
The plug-in hybrid model, the T8 PHEV, delivers combined outputs of 340 kW and 709 N.m, providing strong acceleration (0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds), but returning a combined fuel consumption figure of 1.8 L/100 km*. This range of electrified powertrains offers buyers the flexibility to select the combination of efficiency and capability that best suits their needs.
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to all four wheels.
A quieter, more composed ride
Comfort remains central to the XC90. Adaptive dampers now respond continuously to road conditions, and the air suspension and active chassis continuously monitor the vehicle, road, and driver, hundreds of times every second, to balance comfort and stability.
Equipped with air suspension as standard, the XC90 can lower itself for easier entry (by 20 mm) and improved aerodynamics, or raise itself (by 40 mm) for increased ground clearance on rough surfaces. Additional sound insulation reduces wind and road noise, making the cabin feel quieter at highway speeds. 21-inch wheels are standard, but customers can opt for 22-inch wheels at extra cost.
Contemporary cabin, more practicality
The updated interior features a more horizontal dashboard and new decorative inlays—crafted from premium, recycled materials—providing a textured, contemporary look. Vertical air vents and ambient lighting add a refined feel after dark. Additional practical changes have been made to the cabin. For example, the centre console now features additional storage and an extra cup holder.
At the same time, the wireless phone charger has been repositioned behind the central tunnel, keeping the main storage area clear. With the second and third rows folded flat, cargo space expands to a generous 1,950 litres, while keeping all three rows in place still offers a practical 301 litres of storage. Access to all three rows of seating remains easy for all occupants.
For the ultimate luxury experience, the XC90 Ultra is equipped with a Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system, providing an immersive listening experience. A Harmon Kardon Premium Sound system is standard on the Plus trims.
Two well-equipped trims to choose from
Both the B5 MHEV and T8 PHEV are available in Plus or Ultra trims, providing XC90 buyers with a broad range of choices. Regardless of the selected specification, the SUV is generously equipped with standard features, including four-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, and power-adjustable front seats with a memory function. Heating is standard for both the front and rear seats, ensuring comfort for every passenger.
On the outside, Matrix LED headlights are fitted across the range, flanking the redesigned grille that gives the XC90 even greater presence on the road. Inside, the cabin can be tailored to individual taste with a wide variety of inlays and upholstery finishes. These range from ventilated Nappa leather to Navy Herringbone textile and Nordico upholstery, paired with decor options such as Checkered Aluminium, Grey Ash, Backlit Light Ash, Light Beige Wood, or Brown Ash. A choice of steering wheels—leather-wrapped or in artificial leather—further enhances personalisation. At the centre of it all, the handcrafted crystal gear lever by Orrefors adds a touch of understated glamour to the XC90’s minimalist interior.
A smarter user experience
The XC90 features our latest infotainment and connectivity suite, which includes a larger, higher-resolution 11.2-inch central touchscreen and over-the-air (OTA) updates that continuously add new features throughout the car’s lifespan. Built-in Google services are included for intuitive navigation and voice control, and wireless Apple CarPlay is also supported.
Safety you can count on
Since the introduction of the first-generation XC90 in 2002, safety has always defined Volvo’s three-row SUV, and nothing changes here. The car features a robust safety cage and an advanced array of driver assistance systems, designed to prevent or mitigate collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals. Lane keeping with oncoming mitigation, run-off road protection, intersection autobrake and intelligent emergency braking are all part of the suite that helps the driver avoid the unexpected and protect occupants.
The new XC90 comes equipped with a full suite of safety features, including dual front and driver’s knee airbags, Volvo’s Side Impact Protection System (SIPS), Inflatable Curtain airbags, and Whiplash Protection (WHIPS) for the front seats. Isofix anchorages are also standard, underscoring the XC90’s reputation as one of the safest luxury SUVs on the road.
Standard driver support systems in the XC90 include:
- Pilot Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Collision Mitigation Support, front
- Lane Keeping Aid
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Collision Warning and Mitigation Support, rear
- 360-degree camera
- Park Assist Front, Rear, and Side
- Hill Start Assist
- Hill Descent Control
“The XC90 has always been a cornerstone of Volvo’s success in South Africa,” commented Grant Locke, Managing Director of VCSA. “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.”
The new XC90 is available in four derivatives:
- 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
All variants are sold with a five-year/100,000 km warranty, a five-year/100,000 km service plan, and five years of unlimited roadside assistance. On T8 PHEV models, the hybrid battery is covered for 8 years/160,000 km, ensuring long-term peace of mind.
