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
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Open the hood
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Remove upper rubber seal
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Extract nine push-pins (inserted top-to-bottom) and remove three plastic covers (side ones first, then center)
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Remove five top-mounted push-pins securing the bumper
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Undo ten underbody screws (inserted bottom-up)
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Turn wheels fully left/right for wheel arch access
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Remove five screws per wheel arch securing the front fender liners
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Release wheel arch extension clips (pull downward then outward, or compress clips behind liner)
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Move liners aside and remove two bolts per side (top-down installation, hard-to-reach)
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Disengage side brackets from fenders (pull down first, then outward)
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Release two headlight housing clips (marked by blue arrows - use flathead screwdriver while pulling bumper forward)
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With assistant, remove bumper forward (watch for wiring/hoses)
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Disconnect electronic components
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Detach headlight washer system hose
Rear Bumper Removal Procedure
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Open tailgate
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Remove two cargo area bump stops (rotate 90° counterclockwise)
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Undo four underbody screws (bottom-up installation)
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Remove five screws per wheel arch securing rear fender liners
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Release wheel arch extensions (compress clips behind liner while pulling)
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Disengage side brackets (use flathead carefully to avoid paint damage)
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Release taillight housing clips
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With assistant, remove bumper rearward (mind wiring)
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Disconnect all electronic components
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:
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Gasoline/Diesel engines (235hp D5 / 320hp T6)
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T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrids (407-455hp, 40-50km EV range)
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Mild-hybrid B-series (48V system)
All models feature an 8-speed automatic and standard AWD.
Notable Features:
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World's first intersection auto-braking system (detects vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, large animals)
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Signature Swedish crystal gear selector (replaces start button)
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Excellence trim offers rear executive lounge with refrigerated console
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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.