In 2015, Volvo made a groundbreaking leap with the second-generation XC90. This wasn't just a refresh - it became the flagship of the Swedish brand's new era. With its minimalist Scandinavian design, cutting-edge technology, and uncompromising safety, the XC90 established itself as one of the most desirable premium SUVs.

Mid-Cycle Updates: Evolution Without Revolution

The 2019 facelift brought subtle but significant changes. Exterior updates were discreet: a revised grille, updated bumpers, and new wheel designs. The real transformation came under the hood - new hybrid powertrains with improved efficiency, while the Sensus infotainment received a faster processor and more intuitive interface.

By 2022, Volvo had further refined the model with premium interior materials and expanded standard equipment. Yet the core philosophy remained: the XC90 exemplifies understated luxury where every detail matters.

Bumper Plastic Composition (may vary):
Polypropylene + ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer with 20% mineral filler. Marked >PP+EPDM-TD20<

Front Bumper Removal Procedure

 

  1. Open the hood

  2. Remove upper rubber seal

  3. Extract nine push-pins (inserted top-to-bottom) and remove three plastic covers (side ones first, then center)

  4. Remove five top-mounted push-pins securing the bumper

  5. Undo ten underbody screws (inserted bottom-up)

  6. Turn wheels fully left/right for wheel arch access

  7. Remove five screws per wheel arch securing the front fender liners

  8. Release wheel arch extension clips (pull downward then outward, or compress clips behind liner)

  9. Move liners aside and remove two bolts per side (top-down installation, hard-to-reach)

  10. Disengage side brackets from fenders (pull down first, then outward)

  11. Release two headlight housing clips (marked by blue arrows - use flathead screwdriver while pulling bumper forward)

  12. With assistant, remove bumper forward (watch for wiring/hoses)

  13. Disconnect electronic components

  14. Detach headlight washer system hose

front bumper mounting locations Volvo XC90 II (2015–2025)

Volvo XC90 II (2015–2025) Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

Rear Bumper Removal Procedure

  1. Open tailgate

  2. Remove two cargo area bump stops (rotate 90° counterclockwise)

  3. Undo four underbody screws (bottom-up installation)

  4. Remove five screws per wheel arch securing rear fender liners

  5. Release wheel arch extensions (compress clips behind liner while pulling)

  6. Disengage side brackets (use flathead carefully to avoid paint damage)

  7. Release taillight housing clips

  8. With assistant, remove bumper rearward (mind wiring)

  9. Disconnect all electronic components

mounting locations of the rear bumper Volvo XC90 II (2015–2025)

Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram Volvo XC90 II (2015–2025)

Body Style & Market Positioning

The Volvo XC90 redefines the full-size luxury SUV segment with its thoughtful seven-seat configuration. Unlike competitors where third-row seating feels like an afterthought, the XC90's stadium-style seating provides genuine adult comfort. With all seats folded, cargo capacity expands to a massive 1,856 liters.

Design Philosophy: Scandinavian Minimalism Meets Tech

The XC90's design language speaks Volvo's visual vocabulary: "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights, the signature grille, and arrow-shaped taillights create instant recognition. The cabin showcases Swedish craftsmanship - premium leather, genuine wood, metal accents, and available Orrefors crystal gearshifters (inscription models). The vertical 9-inch Sensus touchscreen remains the command center.

Powertrain Options:

  • Gasoline/Diesel engines (235hp D5 / 320hp T6)

  • T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrids (407-455hp, 40-50km EV range)

  • Mild-hybrid B-series (48V system)
    All models feature an 8-speed automatic and standard AWD.

Notable Features:

  • World's first intersection auto-braking system (detects vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, large animals)

  • Signature Swedish crystal gear selector (replaces start button)

  • Excellence trim offers rear executive lounge with refrigerated console

  • 2016 World Car of the Year (beating Audi Q7/Mercedes GLE)

The Verdict

The second-gen XC90 represents Scandinavian automotive philosophy perfected: safety through innovation, eco-conscious performance, and luxury without pretension. It doesn't chase sports SUV dynamics or opulent excess. Instead, it delivers thoughtful engineering that ages gracefully - a premium SUV for those who value substance over status.

For drivers seeking tranquility, sustainable performance, and human-centric technology, the XC90 remains a benchmark in its class.