Lifestyle

Volvo XC90 refresh brings luxury, safety and hybrid smarts to SA market

Lance Fredericks|Published

Volvo’s flagship seven-seater XC90 SUV returns with a calmer cabin, advanced safety tech, and hybrid power options, offering comfort and practicality for families without overwhelming complexity.

Image: Supplied / Volvo Car South Africa

Believe it or not, the festive holiday period is just around the corner, and many South Africans will be dreaming of taking the long road, either down to the coast, up to a resort, or into the arms of family members they haven’t seen for a while.

And what better way is there to take a dream trip than in a dream car?

Speaking about dream cars, Volvo Car South Africa has introduced the refreshed XC90, the brand’s flagship seven-seater SUV. The update builds on Volvo’s reputation for comfort, safety and practical efficiency, offering a calmer cabin, cleaner lines and the latest user experience features, all while keeping the SUV’s long-distance capabilities intact.

A hybrid for everyday driving

The XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) can travel over 70km on electric power alone, making many daily trips emissions-free. For longer journeys, the petrol engine and electric system combine to provide a driving range of more than 800km, with all-wheel drive available when needed.

Volvo also continues to offer a mild-hybrid petrol option (B5), which balances strong performance with frugal fuel use. Both powertrains use an eight-speed automatic transmission and drive all four wheels, giving drivers flexibility to match performance to their needs.

“The XC90 has always been a cornerstone of Volvo’s success in South Africa,” said Grant Locke, Managing Director of Volvo Car South Africa. “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.”

Comfort and composure on the road

Comfort is central to the XC90. Adaptive dampers, air suspension, and an active chassis respond constantly to road conditions, balancing a smooth ride with stability. The air suspension allows the car to lower for easier entry or improve aerodynamics, and raise for extra ground clearance on rough surfaces, giving drivers the best of both worlds …

Additional sound insulation makes the cabin noticeably quieter at highway speeds.

21-inch wheels come standard, with 22-inch options available, while the cabin benefits from a more horizontal dashboard and new decorative inlays made from premium, recycled materials. Vertical air vents and subtle ambient lighting add a refined touch, and practical upgrades like extra storage, cup holders, and a repositioned wireless phone charger enhance daily usability. Folding the second and third rows flat expands cargo space to nearly 2,000 litres, while leaving all three rows up still offers 301 litres.

For audio enthusiasts, the XC90 Ultra features a Bowers & Wilkins system, while Plus trims come with Harmon Kardon sound. In other words, all your senses will be tickled and tantalised.

Safety you can count on

Volvo has long defined safety in the luxury SUV segment, and the new XC90 continues that tradition. It features a strong safety cage and multiple driver assistance systems designed to prevent or mitigate collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals.

Standard features include dual front and driver’s knee airbags, Volvo’s Side Impact Protection System (SIPS), inflatable curtain airbags, whiplash protection, and Isofix anchorages. Driver support systems cover pilot assist, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, collision warning, and a full suite of parking aids.

Smarter tech inside

The XC90’s infotainment is led by an 11.2-inch touchscreen and supports over-the-air updates, ensuring the system evolves over time. Google services provide navigation and voice control, while wireless Apple CarPlay is also supported.

Inside, the XC90 can be tailored with various inlays and upholstery finishes, from ventilated Nappa leather to Nordico textiles. A choice of steering wheels and a handcrafted Orrefors crystal gear lever complete the minimalist, luxurious interior.

Image: Supplied / Volvo Cars South Africa

Luxury with personalization

Inside, the XC90 can be tailored with various inlays and upholstery finishes, from ventilated Nappa leather to Nordico textiles. A choice of steering wheels and a handcrafted Orrefors crystal gear lever complete the minimalist, luxurious interior.

A versatile family SUV

With the refreshed XC90, Volvo balances practical seven-seat utility with safety, comfort, and modern technology. The SUV appeals to families seeking a refined driving experience without overwhelming technical detail, while hybrid options cater to drivers looking for efficiency or performance.

“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,” Locke added.

How much is it, and what does it offer?

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/100,000km warranty, a five-year/100,000km service plan, and five years of unlimited roadside assistance. 

On T8 PHEV models, the hybrid battery is covered for 8 years/160,000km, ensuring long-term peace of mind.