Volvo Strikes Back at Genesis With New Three-Row Luxury XC90

Volvo still has plans to go all-electric with its lineup, as shown by the recent three-row EX90 electric SUV, but in the midterm, it will still be offering its customers efficient gasoline options, like the 2025 Volvo XC90. The six- or seven-passenger people hauler has a plug-in hybrid, with 32 miles of electric range for daily driving duties, and the mild hybrid also remains.

The design changes are gentle to the classically boxy SUV. The 2025 XC90 has a new grille and bumper, air intakes and slim T-shaped headlights, new wheel designs and a new hood, but at speed it would be hard to tell.

The grille is the most prominent signal with its overlapping diagonal chrome bars. The headlights are made up of 15-segment matrix LEDs that smoothly transition from off to lights to high beams and incorporate corner lights that point in the vehicle’s steering direction.

Volvo says it also focused on comfort keeping the double-wishbone suspension at the front for a more controlled and relaxed driving experience. A rear link helps stability while towing and the standard suspension has been tuned for more ride comfort. Buyers can also opt for the air suspension that works with the chassis to monitor the road and smooth out bumps instantly. Additionally, Volvo added more sound insulation to keep the cabin quiet

Despite those updates, the biggest changes for the 2025 Volvo XC90 are inside with a new central tunnel layout featuring three cupholders, one skinny, arranged behind the wireless charging pad. Like the electric EX90 and EX30, it features a portrait-style touchscreen infotainment system measuring 11.2 inches.

Also like those EVs, the XC90’s customizable screen features permanent icons for often-used features and a spot for most recently used. It comes standard with Google Built-in and its associated apps, as well as Apple CarPlay. It also shows the reverse camera simultaneously with the 360-degree bird’s eye view camera

In keeping with the Scandinavian efficiency, there are new upholstery options for the seating including bio-friendly options called Nordico and Navy Herringbone Weave.

The dashboard has a horizontal design with decorative panels made from premium recycled materials. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system, like the one in the EX90, can faithfully replicate the acoustics of a stage, a concert hall or a jazz club.

Illuminated treadplates, ambient and décor lights are customizable and bath the cabin in light during entrances, exits and while driving. It also added small lights to dark places like the cupholders making it easier to find items at night. Integrated tailgate lights also help when loading and unloading in the dark.

The 2025 Volvo XC90 will start at $58,450. That makes it slightly pricier than the Acura MDX, $53,100 with all-wheel drive, but right in line with the Genesis GV80. The Lexus RX Volvo will be taking reservations later this year for the new XC90, which will be sold alongside the current model for a time, with customer deliveries beginning in Q1 2025