The Volvo XC90, a cornerstone of the Swedish automaker’s 21st-century success, is getting a significant refresh for the 2025 model year. While not a full redesign, the updates aim to keep the popular three-row SUV competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
Volvo remains committed to its all-electric future, evidenced by the recent introduction of the EX90, an all-electric counterpart to the XC90. However, the automaker acknowledges the importance of plug-in hybrid technology as a bridge during this transition. As CEO Jim Rowan stated, “We are not dogmatic about our 2030 ambitions,” referring to the company’s target of ending combustion engine sales by the end of the decade. This timeline may be adjusted based on market conditions, and plug-in hybrids offer a valuable bridge.
The 2025 XC90 maintains its familiar foundation, built upon the first-generation Scalable Product Architecture (SPA). However, it receives subtle but noticeable exterior updates to align with the brand’s latest design language. The most notable changes are up front, where a new grille with diagonal mesh, thinner headlights (retaining Volvo’s signature T-shape), and revised air intakes create a more modern and refined appearance. Inside, the minimalist cabin design is preserved, incorporating premium touches like an available Orrefors crystal shifter and mesh speakers for the optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The center console has been redesigned for enhanced ergonomics, offering easier access to the wireless charger and a dedicated cupholder for cans.
One of the most significant updates is the introduction of a larger, 11.2-inch touchscreen with a new interface. This larger screen boasts higher resolution and a fully capacitive design. The interface, mirroring the design of the EX90 and EX30, features two layers of shortcuts for quick access to climate control, audio apps, and other key functions. The icons dynamically adapt based on context and usage frequency. The XC90’s infotainment system continues to rely on Android-based technology, integrating Google Maps, Google Assistant voice control, and Apple CarPlay. Volvo plans to roll out the new screen layout as a free over-the-air update for existing vehicles equipped with the Android-based system.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain, last updated in 2022, remains unchanged. The combination of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and an electric motor delivers a combined output of 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, propelling the XC90 from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The lithium-ion battery pack, with 18.8 kilowatt-hours of gross capacity and 14.7 kWh of usable capacity, provides approximately 33 miles of electric range. Volvo also offers non-plug-in hybrid versions of the XC90, with the B5 featuring a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine producing 247 horsepower and the B6 incorporating a supercharger to increase output to 295 horsepower. Both B5 and B6 versions feature mild-hybrid systems and utilize the Miller combustion cycle to enhance efficiency.
Volvo has implemented suspension upgrades across the lineup, adopting double-wishbone front suspension, new damping technology for improved ride comfort, and an integral rear link for enhanced stability and towing capacity. The XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid boasts a maximum towing capacity of 5,291 pounds.
While specific pricing for plug-in hybrid versions wasn’t available at the time of this writing, Volvo has announced a base price of $59,745 for the 2025 XC90. However, this price is unlikely to apply to plug-in hybrids, which were priced around $72,000 for the 2024 models. Sales are expected to commence later this year, with deliveries scheduled for the first quarter of 2025.
Volvo’s decision to maintain the XC90 alongside its all-electric future showcases a strategic approach to the transition. Plug-in hybrids like the XC90 T8 serve as a bridge, enabling customers to experience the benefits of electric driving while offering the flexibility of a combustion engine for longer trips. As EV adoption continues to grow, the role of plug-in hybrids may diminish, but Volvo’s updates to the XC90 demonstrate a commitment to providing a balanced and reliable solution for drivers seeking a blend of efficiency and performance.
