Volvo XC90 2025 Facelift India Review: Slight Tweaks Make It Better

The new XC90 gets a different grille, new Matrix LEDs which are slimmer including the 'Thor's Hammer lights' and a sharper looking bumper.

The feature list includes a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system which is one of the best ones out there, a massive panoramic sunroof, a heads-up display, 4 zone air cleaner and more.

Source : Somnath Chatterjee

The XC90 in its current generation has changed Volvo cars and was the first product under new ownership along with showcasing a new design language. Volvo has since introduced a series of new cars and yet the XC90 remains a strong seller globally as well as doing well in India. The XC90 is their flagship SUV and recently was launched in a new avatar. We drove it to find out more.

How does it look?

The new XC90 gets a different grille, new Matrix LEDs which are slimmer including the 'Thor's Hammer lights' and a sharper looking bumper. Look elsewhere and there are new 20-inch wheels, generous use of chrome but the classic tail-lamps which have defined the XC90 design continue to be there although the bumper is tweaked. It is a classy, well proportioned SUV which retains its appeal.

What about the interior?

Here, there are bigger changes and the interior is again elegant, full of high quality materials but also minimalist in design while getting a horizontal look. There are new inlays, a more luxurious upholstery with lighter colours and premium sustainable materials used on the inside too. However, what would be the biggest is the larger 11.2-inch touchscreen which has Google built-in (there is wired Apple CarPlay too) and that means it is as easy to use as your phone with Google maps and more apps that you can add.

Some permanent shortcut buttons are below including for the climate control. The touchscreen is easy to reach, has beautiful graphics and is slick but not overloaded, which we like. The 360 degree camera is improved too. The feature list includes a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system which is one of the best ones out there, a massive panoramic sunroof, a heads-up display, 4 zone air cleaner and more. The second row seats have captain seat armrests with larger cup holders while space is huge with ample comfort while the seating position is also high. Even the third row is pretty spacious while being one of the better ones in its class.

How is the driving experience?

In India, the XC90 continues with its petrol mild hybrid configuration with 250hp and 360Nm with an 8-speed automatic as standard plus AWD of course. The driving position is SUV like and you sit high with a commanding view plus the crystal gear selector feels suitably expensive. Volvo has improved insulation and it is indeed quiet while only getting slightly strained if you put your foot down.

However, it matches up to its 6-cylinder rivals most of the time and feels smooth/easy to drive. Where the car scores is the steering and how it feels more compact to drive when compared to its rivals. The ride at low speeds has some firmness due to those 20-inch wheels but gets better at high speeds and is a plush driving experience along with the fact that rear seat passengers are not tossed around while having a smooth ride quality. The air suspension has made things better and it also lifts itself for challenging terrains or lowers itself too. It feels stable at high speeds, secure and is pretty good to drive overall with being a proper luxury SUV first.

Is it worth the price?

For a full size three row luxury SUV the XC90 is actually more competitively priced at Rs 1.03 cr but the real appeal lies in its design, quality and the way it drives which is different from the other luxury SUVs at this price point. Volvo has improved some key aspects regarding its luxury and technology which further adds to the appeal. Overall, its a luxury SUV which doesn't try too hard.