Facelifted Volvo XC90 launched in South Africa: here's what you get for your money
The updated Volvo XC90 is offered in four variants, priced from R1,555,500.
Image: Supplied
With the world’s transition to electric vehicles set to take somewhat longer than expected, Volvo, like many car manufacturers, has backtracked on its plan to become a fully electric carmaker by 2030.
Electric vehicles (EVs) will still form the backbone of its lineup, with these and plug-in hybrids expected to account for 90% of its sales by the end of this decade. However, to cater for customers who prefer internal combustion power, products like the XC90 are being retained for the time being.
Although the second-generation model has aged rather well, considering it was first launched in 2015, it is due for an update, and that comes in the form of a second facelift, which is the most comprehensive to date.
A redesigned asymmetrical grille and new LED Matrix headlights distinguish the updated model's exterior.
Image: Supplied
Launched in South Africa this week, the ‘2025.5’ Volvo XC90 comes with two powertrain options, kicking off with the B5 turbopetrol model that costs R1,555,500 in Plus trim and R1,657,500 as an Ultra. The T8 PHEV (plug-in hybrid) costs between R1,834,500 (Plus) and R1,936,500 (Ultra).
The B5 has a mild hybrid 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine that produces 183kW and 350Nm, while claimed combined consumption amounts to 8.1 litres per 100km.
The T8 pairs a similar petrol engine with an electric motor for outputs of 340kW and 709Nm, while offering an all-electric range of up to 70km.
The XC90 is available in B5 and T8 PHEV variants.
Image: Supplied
In both models, power is sent to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox. 21-inch alloy wheels are standard, suspended by an upgraded chassis featuring revised active dampers and standard air suspension.
What’s new for 2025?
You’ll immediately recognise the new Volvo XC90 by its redesigned grille with an interesting new asymmetrical pattern. This is flanked by redesigned Matrix LED headlights with ‘Thor’s Hammer’ elements.
The most significant changes occur inside, where a larger and higher-resolution 11.2-inch central touchscreen mimics the brand’s latest user experience seen in the EX90. Volvo says it now takes fewer taps on the home screen to access the features that customers use most often.
A new touchscreen infotainment system brings the interior tech into line with more modern Volvos.
Image: Supplied
The company has also made improvements to the design of the dashboard and cabin, which now uses more recycled materials and features additional storage spaces.
Customers can choose from a wide array of interior upholsteries and inlays, ranging from ventilated Nappa leather to Navy Herringbone textile and Nordico upholstery. These can be paired with decor options such as Brown Ash, Backlit Light Ash, Grey Ash and even Checkered Aluminium.
As you’d expect from the brand, an entourage of advanced safety features is on board. To that end, the new XC90 comes standard with Pilot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Mitigation Support, Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping Aid and 360-degree camera.
Standard comfort features include a panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, and the front and rear seating rows are heated.
Volvo hasn’t confirmed how long the ICE-powered XC90 will remain on sale, but for now, it will soldier on alongside the all-electric EX90, which costs R2,650,000.
An updated version of the midsize ICE-powered Volvo XC60 is also expected to debut in South Africa in the coming year, alongside the all-electric ES90 flagship sedan.
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