Volvo looks to the future with XC90 updates

The revised XC90 will be sold alongside the all-electric Volvo EX90

- Ellis Hyde

THE cutting-edge, all-electric Volvo EX90 has just hit the streets, but its faithful forebearer, the Volvo XC90, isn't going anywhere soon, because the seven-seat SUV has received a fresh new look, an interior redesign and some comfortboosting upgrades.

The second-generation XC90 was launched back in 2015, but you wouldn't know it, given that the car received its first facelift in 2019, while this second nip and tuck is meant to "ensure it stays at the top of its game" for the foreseeable.

The more contemporary face features a new grille design that plays on Volvo's classic diagonal bar motif, plus slimmer headlights with a new interpretation of the 'Thor's Hammer' signature. There's also a slightly more sculpted bonnet, new front wings, and the lower bumper is cleaner and much simpler than before.

The rest of the car gets more modest refinements, including a fresh look for the charging port, darkened tail-lights and new alloy wheels.

The interior features a new dashboard design that incorporates more textured surfaces, redesigned air vents and an 11.2-inch freestanding central touchscreen that Volvo says is sharper and more responsive than the old unit.

It uses the same user interface found in the electric EX90 and EX30, which is meant to provide easier access to key functions and require fewer taps before you get to your desired menu. Services like Google Maps and Google Assistant are built-in, with more apps available through the Google Play store.

For iPhone users, Apple CarPlay connectivity is standard as well.

Other tech upgrades include enhanced ambient lighting and a 360-degree camera system with split screen, though the 12-inch fully digital driver's display is the same as before.