2025 Volvo XC90 facelift launched in Malaysia - 2 variants from RM418,888, MHEV or PHEV option

A pretty comprehensive facelift of the second-generation Volvo XC90 has now been launched here in Kuala Lumpur by Volvo Car Malaysia. Although it still sits on the same Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform instead of the newer SPA2 platform and retains the core body structure, Volvo has made significant strides to update both to its design and tech.

Two variants are now available from RM418,888 for the mild-hybrid B5 Ultra and RM434,888 for the Ultra T8 plug-in hybrid. They form a one attack vector for Volvo's flagship 90 series with the other being the EX90, the fully electric and more technologically advanced counterpart to the XC90, which was launched simultaneously.

In terms of design, the XC90’s original sharp Swedish aesthetics made waves when it was first introduced a decade ago. We'd definitely argue that it has aged extremely gracefully, esepcially against its market peers. It's this sophisticated look helped the SUV become a global success. 

Clearly, most of the visual changes happen at the front, borrowing cues from Volvo’s electric siblings, EX30 and the EX90 that it also shared stage space with today as the duo made their Malaysian debut.

Along its front grille, Volvo has kept the Iron Mark logo and diagonal chrome bar, but added a criss-cross slat pattern that might not be to everyone’s taste. The bumper now features a wider central air intake and slimmer vertical corner inlets, giving the XC90 a sleeker yet aggressive look.

Inside, the refreshed XC90 continues to evolve with a series of thoughtful refinements, all while staying true to the design language of its predecessor. The cabin retains familiar elements such as the vertical air vents, robust volume dial, and the elegant Orrefors crystal gear shifter, but these are now complemented by practical enhancements that subtly elevate the overall experience.

Seating still accommodates up to seven passengers, but it’s the smaller, user-inspired changes that stand out. Among these are the introduction of a third cupholder in the center console and a repositioned Qi wireless charger, now more conveniently located to maintain usable storage space. Additionally, parts of the decorative trim are now crafted from recycled materials, and the ambient lighting system has been refined to add an extra layer of sophistication during nighttime journeys.

Perhaps the most noticeable upgrade lies in the infotainment system. Dominating the dashboard is a new 11.2-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, angled outward slightly for improved ergonomics and driver visibility. The screen boasts a 21% increase in pixel density and runs on Volvo’s latest software interface, featuring seamless Google Maps integration and always-on access to phone and media functions.

While the XC90’s aesthetics and interior have seen notable revisions, its engine lineup carries over with only slight modifications. The plug-in hybrid T8 Ultra remains a standout, especially in markets such as Malaysia, continuing to pair a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a 145 PS electric motor and an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Interestingly, the petrol engine has undergone a mild detune, now producing 310 PS and 400 Nm of torque. Nevertheless, total system output remains an impressive 455 PS, allowing the XC90 to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds—quick for a vehicle weighing over 2.3 tonnes.

Battery capacity for the plug-in hybrid variant holds steady at 18.8 kWh, enabling up to 71 km of pure electric range. That said, this figure still trails behind competitors like the BMW X5 xDrive50e, which can manage up to 110 km on battery power alone.

For buyers who lean away from electrification, Volvo continues to offer mild-hybrid options. The B5 Ultra delivers 263PS and 390 Nm from its 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, albeit assisted by a 48V integrated starter-generator, which adds 14PS and 40Nm of instant shove. Unlike the PHEV, the B5 uses a mechanical all-wheel drive system to send power to the rear axle instead of a dedicated electric motor. 

Comfort has also been a key focus, with newly engineered dampers that adapt mechanically to changing surfaces, enhancing ride smoothness across different terrains. Meanwhile, the adaptive air suspension system is a standard feature for both variants. In fact, all equipment and features are equal between the B5 Ultra and T8 Ultra, with the only differences being limited to its powertrain. 

As expected from Volvo, safety remains a cornerstone. Standard features include autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, semi-autonomous Pilot Assist, and blind-spot monitoring. In select markets, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication is also included, improving safety and connectivity further.

This latest iteration of the Volvo XC90 looks poised to maintain its status as a top contender in the luxury SUV segment. Though it builds on a familiar foundation, the infusion of smarter tech, subtle design updates, and refined dynamics position it well to continue the nameplate’s success story.