Review of the 2024 Volvo XC90 facelift: B5 mild-hybrid and T8 PHEV
The XC90 remains in its second generation with its second facelift: a new grille, Matrix headlights, and an 11.2-inch screen. Singapore offers the B5 mild-hybrid and the 455 hp T8 PHEV, starting at SGD 444,000.
Ten years after the launch of its second generation (2015), the Volvo XC90 is undergoing its second mid-cycle refresh (launching September 2024) instead of a complete redesign. This approach focuses on sustainable design, a richly crafted interior, and mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options, aiming to maintain practical value rather than a radical overhaul.
Just the right amount of unconventional style: a new grille, Matrix "Thor's hammer" headlights.
Instead of chasing trends, the XC90 has been deliberately refined. The new grille connects directly to the Matrix headlight cluster, further highlighting the signature "Thor's hammer" logo. Overall, it remains a large SUV with familiar proportions, aiming for a sense of "beautifully matured" rather than a complete transformation.
Scandinavian cabin: premium materials, 11.2-inch screen.
The most noticeable change is the 11.2-inch touchscreen in the center console, replacing the previous 9-inch screen. Its separate placement from the dashboard might disappoint some customers who miss the original minimalist aesthetic, but the XC90's identity remains clearly evident through the ash wood trim and the Orrefors crystal gear selector – a distinctive detail not found on the all-electric EX90.
Volvo emphasizes sustainability by using Nordico artificial leather with Charcoal, Blond, or Cardamom color options. Depending on the configuration, the car has 7 or 6 seats with a business-class second row; the top-of-the-line version offers Nappa leather as an option. Luggage capacity reaches 356 liters with the third row seats upright; folding both rows increases it to 1,856 liters. On the PHEV version, the figures are 316 liters and 1,816 liters respectively.
Two powertrain options: B5 mild-hybrid and T8 AWD PHEV
B5 AWD 48V: Smoother and more fuel-efficient.
The B5 AWD version uses a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a maximum power output of 250 horsepower, combined with a 48V mild-hybrid system. According to product design, this system helps the vehicle operate more smoothly across a range of speeds and optimizes fuel consumption under everyday driving conditions.
T8 AWD PHEV: 455 horsepower, 19 kWh battery
In the T8 AWD PHEV configuration, the system delivers 455 horsepower. Drivers can select Hybrid, Power, Pure, Off-road, and Constant All-wheel Drive modes to prioritize performance, pure electric power, or traction. The 19 kWh battery pack can be charged from 0–100% in approximately 3 hours using a 16 A two-phase power source. Through the 8-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, the XC90 T8 accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 5.4 seconds.
Main specifications table
| Category | XC90 B5 AWD (mild-hybrid) | XC90 T8 AWD (PHEV) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine/Drivetrain | 2.0L turbocharged, 4-cylinder; 48V mild-hybrid; AWD | PHEV; AWD |
| Maximum power | 250 horsepower | 455 horsepower |
| Gear | Geartronic 8-speed automatic transmission | Geartronic 8-speed automatic transmission |
| Operating mode | — | Hybrid, Power, Pure, Off-road, Constant AWD |
| Batteries and chargers | — | 19 kWh battery; charging 0–100% takes approximately 3 hours (2-phase 16 A) |
| 0–100 km/h | — | 5.4 seconds |
| Luggage compartment (standard/PHEV) | 356 liters; folded 1,856 liters | 316 liters; 1,816 liters when folded. |
Technology and safety: complete in the Volvo tradition.
The new XC90 is fully equipped with the safety and convenience features that have made the brand famous. The "Thor's Hammer" Matrix headlights are not only distinctive but also provide active lighting support. Core driver assistance and convenience features continue to be strengths of this SUV in the premium family car segment.
Operational experience: data over showmanship.
The upgrades focus on efficiency. In the B5, the 48V mild-hybrid system supports smoother transitions and optimized fuel consumption in urban environments. With the T8, the 455 horsepower and 0–100 km/h time of 5.4 seconds demonstrate the powerful acceleration of the plug-in hybrid system, while the 19 kWh battery allows for pure electric operation depending on usage and charging conditions.
Selling price in Singapore
In Singapore, the new Volvo XC90 is offered in mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid configurations, priced from SGD 444,000 (over USD 342,000), including COE fees.
Conclusion: Uphold core values
The XC90 demonstrates that a good design can endure if updated in the right places. The second facelift isn't revolutionary, but it reinforces the elements that make this 7-seater SUV unique: Scandinavian aesthetics, refined materials, suitable powertrain options, and compelling performance figures on the T8 trim. Given its positioning and pricing in Singapore, choosing between the B5 and T8 will depend on the priorities between everyday efficiency and the power of a plug-in hybrid system.
