The Volvo XC90 has long been a benchmark in the luxury SUV segment, offering a blend of Scandinavian elegance, advanced safety, and electrified performance. As Volvo introduces the 2025 XC90, many potential buyers and enthusiasts are eager to know what has changed compared to the 2024 model. Let’s take a deep dive into the key differences, upgrades, and whether the 2025 XC90 is worth the upgrade.
1. Exterior Design – Subtle Refinements
2024 Volvo XC90
- Retained the iconic Thor’s Hammer LED headlights and sophisticated front grille.
- Minimal design changes from previous years, maintaining its familiar premium look.
- Available in multiple trims with slight variations in exterior styling.
2025 Volvo XC90
- Features a redesigned front grille with diagonal chrome slats for a more modern appeal.
- Headlights are sharper and slightly reconfigured for improved visibility.
- New alloy wheel options and redesigned LED taillights enhance its sporty look.
- Subtle aerodynamic refinements contribute to better efficiency and stability.
Verdict: The 2025 XC90 doesn’t bring a revolutionary design overhaul but offers refined aesthetics that add to its modern and premium appeal.
2. Interior & Technology – Smarter and More Luxurious
2024 Volvo XC90
- 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with Google-based operating system.
- Standard seven-seat layout with high-quality materials.
- Premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system available in higher trims.
- Basic ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) features.
2025 Volvo XC90
- Upgraded 11.2-inch vertically stacked touchscreen, replacing the 9-inch display.
- Same Google-powered system but with faster processing and better integration with apps.
- Improved cabin insulation for a quieter and more refined driving experience.
- Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) technology introduced in the suspension system for superior ride comfort.
- Enhanced ADAS suite with upgraded sensors and AI-driven safety features.
Verdict: The bigger screen, improved sound insulation, and smarter tech make the 2025 XC90 a more attractive option for tech-savvy buyers.
3. Performance & Hybrid Technology – Moving Toward Electrification
2024 Volvo XC90
- Mild-hybrid powertrain options with B5 (247 hp) and B6 (297 hp) petrol engines.
- Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Recharge T8 with 18.8 kWh battery, offering 67 km electric range.
- 8-speed automatic transmission with AWD standard.
2025 Volvo XC90
- Same B5 (247 hp) and B6 (297 hp) mild-hybrid options.
- Recharge T8 PHEV upgraded with up to 70 km electric range.
- Improved regenerative braking system for better efficiency.
- Better battery cooling technology for more consistent hybrid performance.
Verdict: The powertrain options remain the same, but the plug-in hybrid version gets a minor range boost and better efficiency.
4. Safety – Volvo’s Core Strength
2024 Volvo XC90
- Standard Volvo City Safety Suite, including emergency braking and collision avoidance.
- Optional Pilot Assist for semi-autonomous driving.
2025 Volvo XC90
- Advanced ADAS system with better lane-keeping, blind-spot monitoring, and emergency intervention.
- More precise 360-degree camera system for parking assistance.
- Improved AI-driven safety features that predict and prevent accidents.
Verdict: The 2025 model enhances Volvo’s already impressive safety with smarter driver-assist features.
5. Price & Final Thoughts – Is the Upgrade Worth It?
| Feature | 2024 Volvo XC90 | 2025 Volvo XC90 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Sleek & familiar | Subtle refinements (grille, lights, wheels) |
| Infotainment | 9-inch touchscreen | 11.2-inch upgraded touchscreen |
| Comfort | Standard luxury | Better sound insulation & ride quality |
| Hybrid Tech | Recharge T8 (67 km EV range) | Recharge T8 (70 km EV range, better efficiency) |
| Safety | Standard Volvo ADAS | Upgraded AI-driven safety |
| Starting Price (Expected) | ₹1.01 Crore | ₹1.01 – ₹1.05 Crore |
The 2025 Volvo XC90 doesn’t introduce dramatic changes, but the tech upgrades, improved hybrid system, and refined safety features make it a better package. If you already own a 2024 model, the upgrade may not be necessary. However, if you’re considering a new luxury SUV, the 2025 XC90 offers a more modern and future-ready driving experience.
