The slowdown in EV growth has forced many automakers to reconsider pulling the plug on their combustion-powered lineups. Volvo, for instance, is rolling out a “new iteration” of the XC90, offering it as a hybrid alternative to the all-electric EX90 of similar size. The Swedish automaker revealed that a “substantially refreshed” XC90 will debut on “90/90 Day” this September 4. This suggests an extensive facelift rather than a full redesign. Volvo is likely to apply a similar strategy to other aging ICE-powered models, keeping them relevant until the brand transitions to an all-electric lineup by 2030.
The second generation Volvo XC90 debuted
in 2014 and received a mild refresh in 2019. The upcoming 2025 version is
expected to feature a completely redesigned exterior and a refreshed interior,
incorporating styling cues from its EV sibling, the EX90. The large SUV will
likely offer mechanical upgrades with a stronger emphasis on electrification,
along with the latest in safety technology.
The official teaser reveals the hood of
the new XC90, which appears more sculpted than the EX90. The headlights, while
slightly different, still feature Volvo’s signature Thor’s hammer LED graphics.
Patent drawings from 2022 hinted at an EX90-style SUV, possibly the new XC90,
though nothing is confirmed yet. The fully electric EX90 was first revealed in
November 2022, but production didn’t start until June 2024 following delays
caused by software bugs. Volvo thinks that the new hybrid XC90 won’t
cannibalize sales of the EX90, as the models appeal to different audiences. At
the moment it is not clear whether the new XC90 will be available in mild
hybrid form, or if the Geely-owned brand opts for a PHEV-only range.
Besides the debut, Volvo promised that the
90/90 Day livestream will “mark a big moment in the launch of the EX90”. The
automaker also said that “there might be a surprise or two…”, making us curious
about what’s in store. Hopefully, we will learn more before the big day on
September 4.
