2025 Volvo XC90 Refresh: Why the Updated Flagship Still Defines Premium Family Travel

The Volvo XC90 has served as the brand's flagship SUV for nearly a decade, establishing itself as a benchmark in the premium three-row segment. Rather than replacing this successful platform entirely, Volvo has invested in a comprehensive refresh for 2025 that modernizes the interior, updates technology, and refines driving dynamics while preserving the qualities that made the XC90 a favored choice for Ontario families.

This refresh represents a strategic decision to offer families a proven, refined option alongside the all-new electric EX90. For buyers who prefer the flexibility of internal combustion powertrains or who aren't ready to transition to full electrification, the updated XC90 delivers contemporary technology and materials within a thoroughly developed platform.

Interior Redesign and Material Updates

The 2025 XC90's interior receives the most visible changes, with a redesigned dashboard that creates a more horizontal visual flow across the cabin. The new design incorporates premium materials including wood panels sourced from sustainable forests and recycled materials that provide textured finishes without compromising luxury appearance.

Vertical air vents replace the previous generation's design, improving airflow distribution and creating distinct visual elements that break up the dashboard expanse. The vents are positioned to direct climate control more precisely toward occupants while reducing air noise at higher fan speeds.

Enhanced interior lighting provides greater ambiance during evening driving. Adjustable lighting zones allow occupants to customize illumination levels in different cabin areas, with options ranging from subtle accent lighting to brighter task lighting for reading or working while parked.

The center tunnel has been reconfigured to provide additional storage space, including a larger cupholder area and revised storage bins that better accommodate modern smartphones and charging cables. These changes address feedback from current XC90 owners who identified storage as an area for improvement.

The panoramic glass roof extends across both the first and second seating rows, creating an open cabin feel and allowing natural light to reach all occupants. A power sunshade controls light entry when direct sun becomes uncomfortable, while the glass itself includes UV filtering to reduce heat gain.

New Infotainment System with Google Built-in

The most significant technological update involves the replacement of the previous infotainment system with a new 11.2-inch vertically oriented touchscreen running Google built-in. This system matches the interface found in Volvo's newest electric models, creating consistency across the brand's lineup.

Google built-in integrates Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play directly into the vehicle without requiring smartphone connection. Navigation through Google Maps provides real-time traffic updates and automatic rerouting around delays. The system learns frequent destinations and can suggest routes proactively.

Google Assistant enables voice control of navigation, climate functions, and entertainment. Commands can be issued in natural language—asking to "navigate to the nearest coffee shop" or "set the temperature to 21 degrees" produces immediate responses without requiring precise phrasing.

Google Play access allows installation of compatible apps directly onto the vehicle's system. Music streaming services, podcasts, audiobooks, and other entertainment options can run natively without phone connection. The system supports over-the-air updates that add features and functionality after purchase.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain available for users who prefer smartphone-based interfaces. These systems run on the same screen but provide alternative user experiences for those who want to maintain their existing app ecosystems.

The digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel displays vehicle information in customizable layouts. Drivers can emphasize navigation, media information, or traditional gauges depending on preference. The high-resolution display presents information clearly under various lighting conditions.

Refined Suspension and Chassis Tuning

Volvo has updated the XC90's suspension tuning for 2025, focusing on improving ride quality without compromising handling control. The standard suspension now includes frequency-selective dampers that automatically adjust to road conditions.

These dampers respond differently to various inputs—absorbing small, high-frequency impacts from rough pavement while controlling larger, slower body movements during cornering or braking. The result is improved isolation from road irregularities while maintaining composed handling.

The optional air suspension provides additional capability, allowing the vehicle to lower by 20 mm for easier entry and exit or at highway speeds to improve aerodynamics. It can also raise by 40 mm when additional ground clearance is needed for rough roads or deep snow.

Active chassis control, available with the air suspension, monitors vehicle dynamics 500 times per second and adjusts damping at individual wheels based on driving conditions. This system reduces body roll during cornering, minimizes pitch during acceleration and braking, and improves overall stability.

Additional sound insulation has been added to specific areas of the vehicle, targeting wind noise around the mirrors and A-pillars as well as road noise transmitted through the wheel wells. These improvements make the cabin quieter at highway speeds, reducing occupant fatigue on longer trips.

Powertrain Options for Different Needs

The refreshed XC90 offers three powertrain choices, each serving distinct priorities:

B6 Mild Hybrid combines a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Total output reaches 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The mild-hybrid system recovers energy during braking and assists during acceleration, improving fuel efficiency to 10.4 L/100 km combined. This powertrain suits buyers who prioritize straightforward operation without plug-in charging requirements.

T8 Plug-in Hybrid pairs the same turbocharged engine with an electric motor for combined output of 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. An 18.8 kWh battery provides 53 km of all-electric range. Combined fuel economy when operating in hybrid mode reaches 8.9 L/100 km. This powertrain addresses buyers who want electric capability for daily driving while maintaining gasoline range for longer trips.

T8 Polestar Engineered uses the same plug-in hybrid system as the standard T8 but adds performance-oriented chassis tuning, upgraded brakes with gold-painted calipers, unique suspension calibration, and distinctive styling elements. Power output remains 455 horsepower, but the suspension and brake upgrades improve driving dynamics for those who prioritize performance alongside luxury.

All powertrains connect to an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The transmission provides smooth, quick shifts while the all-wheel-drive system distributes torque between front and rear axles based on traction availability.

Seating Configurations and Passenger Space

The XC90 accommodates up to seven passengers across three seating rows. The second row offers three seating positions or, optionally, two captain's chairs separated by a center console. The captain's chair configuration reduces capacity to six but provides greater comfort for second-row passengers and easier access to the third row.

First-row seats provide power adjustment including lumbar support, side bolster adjustment, and memory settings. Heated seats and available ventilated seats address temperature comfort across seasons. The available massage function offers multiple programs that target different areas of the back, reducing fatigue on long drives.

Second-row passengers receive 940 mm of legroom in the 7-seat configuration, sufficient for adults on extended trips. The seats recline and slide fore-aft, allowing occupants to balance their own comfort with cargo space or third-row legroom requirements. Second-row heating is standard across all trim levels.

Third-row seats provide 811 mm of legroom—adequate for children and shorter adults but tight for taller passengers on long journeys. These seats fold flat into the cargo floor when not needed, creating additional cargo space. Power-folding is available, allowing operation via buttons in the cargo area or on the second-row doors.

Headroom measures 987 mm in the first row, 979 mm in the second row, and 923 mm in the third row with the panoramic roof. These dimensions accommodate most adults in the first two rows, though taller passengers may find the third row constraining.

Cargo Capacity and Loading Features

With all three seating rows in use, the XC90 provides 356 litres of cargo space behind the third row—sufficient for several carry-on sized bags or a week's worth of groceries. Folding the third row flat expands capacity to 1,007 litres, while folding both the second and third rows creates 1,856 litres of maximum cargo volume.

The cargo floor sits 782 mm from the ground, requiring moderate lift height when loading heavy items. The flat load floor with seats folded allows long items like furniture or building materials to slide in easily. Cargo floor width between the wheel arches measures 1,130 mm.

The power tailgate opens to reveal an 816 mm tall opening and 1,192 mm of width at floor level. This aperture accommodates large boxes and equipment. Programmable height settings allow the tailgate to open to a reduced height when parking in garages with limited overhead clearance.

Hands-free operation activates by kicking a foot under the rear bumper, useful when approaching with arms full of groceries or equipment. Sensors detect the foot motion and trigger the power opening mechanism.

Underfloor storage compartments provide secure space for valuables or items that need to be kept separate from the main cargo area. These bins also accommodate the cargo cover when not in use, preventing the need to remove it from the vehicle entirely.

Safety Technology and Driver Assistance

The 2025 XC90 includes Volvo's comprehensive safety suite as standard across all trim levels. These systems have been refined over the platform's lifecycle and represent mature, well-developed technology:

Collision Avoidance uses cameras and radar to detect vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals in the vehicle's path. The system provides warnings and can apply automatic emergency braking if the driver doesn't respond to an imminent collision. This system operates day and night and can detect crossing traffic at intersections.

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) monitors adjacent lanes, alerting when vehicles occupy blind spots. If the driver signals a lane change while a vehicle is in the blind spot, steering resistance provides tactile feedback discouraging the maneuver.

Cross Traffic Alert monitors for approaching vehicles when reversing, detecting traffic crossing behind the vehicle. Auto brake can engage if collision risk reaches critical levels and the driver hasn't responded to warnings.

Lane Keeping Aid monitors road markings and provides gentle steering input if the vehicle drifts out of its lane without signaling. The system doesn't steer continuously but intervenes when lane departure is detected.

Oncoming Lane Mitigation detects if the vehicle crosses into oncoming traffic lanes and can apply steering correction to guide it back to safety. This addresses one of the most dangerous accident scenarios—head-on collisions with oncoming vehicles.

Run-off Road Mitigation intervenes if the vehicle unintentionally leaves the roadway, applying steering correction and braking to help keep it on the road or reduce speed if departure is unavoidable.

Pilot Assist combines adaptive cruise control with steering assistance to help maintain lane position and following distance on highways. The system requires constant driver attention and hands on the steering wheel, serving as an assistance feature during highway driving.

Comparing XC90 Trim Levels

The Plus trim provides comprehensive features suitable for most families. The Ultra trim adds premium audio, ventilated seats, and head-up display—features that enhance comfort and convenience but aren't essential for core functionality.

Bowers & Wilkins Premium Audio Option

Beyond the standard audio system and Harman Kardon option, the XC90 offers an available Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system as an upgrade on Ultra trim. This system delivers 1,410 watts through 15 high-fidelity speakers positioned throughout the cabin.

The system includes a fresh-air subwoofer that uses the vehicle's structure as part of the bass enclosure, producing low-frequency sound without consuming cargo space. Individual tweeters, mid-range drivers, and woofers are positioned to create accurate sound staging.

Room mode selection allows listeners to adjust acoustic characteristics, choosing between Studio, Individual Stage, Concert Hall, and Jazz Club settings. Each mode adjusts speaker output and digital signal processing to recreate different listening environments.

For audiophiles or those who spend significant time in their vehicle, the Bowers & Wilkins system represents a substantial upgrade over conventional automotive audio, reproducing music with clarity and depth that approaches home audio systems.

Towing and Payload Capabilities

The XC90 can tow up to 900 kg when properly equipped with the factory towing package. This capacity accommodates small utility trailers, lightweight camping trailers, jet ski trailers, or boat trailers carrying smaller watercraft.

The towing package includes trailer stability assist, which monitors trailer movement and can apply individual wheel brakes to counteract sway. This intervention helps maintain control when crosswinds or passing trucks cause trailer movement.

An integrated trailer brake controller allows adjustment of trailer brake sensitivity through the vehicle's screen. Proper calibration ensures the trailer brakes engage proportionally with the vehicle's brakes, preventing trailer push or excessive vehicle nose-dive during stops.

Maximum payload—the weight the vehicle can carry in passengers and cargo—reaches 640 kg for the T8 plug-in hybrid model. This capacity accommodates seven average-weight passengers plus moderate cargo or fewer passengers with heavier equipment.

Why Choose the XC90 Over the All-Electric EX90

The refreshed XC90 and all-new EX90 serve different priorities within Volvo's lineup. The XC90 offers advantages for specific buyer situations:

No charging infrastructure required - The XC90's gasoline and plug-in hybrid powertrains refuel at standard gas stations. Buyers without home charging capability or those in areas with limited public charging infrastructure face no operational limitations.

Proven reliability - The XC90 platform has been refined over nearly a decade of production. Known issues have been addressed, and the vehicle's long-term durability is well-established through hundreds of thousands of examples in service globally.

Lower entry price - The XC90 B6 starts substantially below the EX90's price point, making three-row luxury more accessible to families who need the space but have budget constraints.

Towing with extended range - While both vehicles offer 900 kg towing capacity, the XC90's gasoline range eliminates concerns about reduced battery range when towing, an issue that affects all electric vehicles.

Faster refueling - Gasoline refueling takes minutes compared to even fast-charging sessions that require 30+ minutes. For families with unpredictable schedules or tight timelines, this speed provides flexibility.

Your Updated Flagship is Ready at Volvo Cars Hamilton

The 2025 Volvo XC90 refresh introduces contemporary technology and refined materials within a proven platform that continues to serve Ontario families well. With updated infotainment through Google built-in, redesigned interior surfaces, improved suspension tuning, and a choice of mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains, the XC90 remains competitive in the premium three-row segment.

Contact our sales team at Volvo Cars Hamilton in Hamilton to explore how the refreshed XC90's combination of space, technology, and refined capability suits your family's needs.