The refreshed Volvo XC90 Plug-in Hybrid (MY 2025.5) continues as Volvo’s flagship partially-electrified model globally. It gets an EPA-rated all-electric range of up to 32 miles, an updated infotainment system, and a revised interior layout for buyers requiring seven-seat practicality.
We recently got to check out the facelift, which was launched earlier this year, in the Plus trim level configured with the Travel Active 500 roof box.
Design
As we expressed in our review, the facelift makes the XC90 look cleaner, and the vehicle has aged gracefully. At the front, the vertical grille slats of the pre-facelift model are replaced with diagonal cross-hatch pattern style slats. The “Thor’s Hammer” headlamps are slimmer and sharper with matrix LED. The horizontal orientation of the vent under the headlamps is also redesigned, now as a vertical unit.
Moving to the side, the 2025.5 XC90 carries over the same look, and at the back, the taillights carry the same shape but now feature a dark tint with smoke-effect.
The Travel Active 500 roof box from Volvo has a 17.7 cu-ft capacity. It is manufactured with recycled materials with a design that is meant to minimize drag and impact on the range of the vehicle. The maximum load capacity of the roof box is rated at 165 lbs.
Interior
The interior of the 2025.5 XC90 includes a redesigned front cabin with the 9-inch integrated screen replaced by a higher resolution 11.2-inch free-floating screen, additional storage space in the center console and slimmer horizontal vents replacing the larger vertical vents.
An added cupholder, relocated wireless phone charger positioned behind the central tunnel, and expanded storage options increase practicality. Enhanced insulation in the B-pillars and roof reduces wind and road noise, which we verified in our review.
The cabin retains a two-row plus third-row layout with seating for seven as standard and a six-seater configuration available for an additional USD 500. A larger central touchscreen with higher resolution introduces Volvo’s latest user experience shared with the EX90 and EX30.
The system supports new apps and over-the-air updates. The XC90 can be equipped with a Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system with selectable acoustic modes. Noise levels are reduced through added insulation in specific body areas.
Specifications
The XC90 PHEV provides more than 32 miles of EPA-rated electric range. Volvo indicates that the hybrid powertrain can add more than 497 miles of additional range when operating with both gasoline and electric power.
The facelift introduces Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) as standard. This mechanical system automatically softens the dampers for sharp bumps but firms them up for corners, without the need for expensive air suspension, which is also offered as an option.
The on-board charger is rated at 3.6 kW for the North American market with a J1772 type connector. DC fast charging is not supported, with only Level 1 and Level 2 AC available, which can charge the car to full in five hours.
Also See: Next-gen Volvo XC90 set to use ‘SPA 1.5’ platform; EREV & 2028 release likely
Price & Release Date
The XC90 Plug-in Hybrid facelift is readily available at dealerships across the U.S. with the entry-level Core priced at USD 76,200 MSRP. The Plus, which we have here, is priced at USD 78,850 while the top-end Ultra carries an MSRP of USD 83,400. The Travel Active 500 roof box from Volvo is available for an additional USD 900.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
