The Volvo XC90 stands as a beacon of luxury, safety, and Scandinavian design in the Indian automotive market. Launched globally in 2002, this mid-size luxury SUV has evolved into a sophisticated blend of performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, with its latest iteration arriving in India on March 4, 2025. Manufactured by Volvo Cars, a Swedish automaker renowned for its unwavering commitment to safety, the XC90 is the flagship SUV in Volvo’s Indian lineup. It caters to discerning buyers who seek a premium three-row SUV that doesn’t compromise on elegance or practicality. With its minimalist yet commanding presence, the XC90 competes fiercely in India’s luxury SUV segment, appealing to families, business professionals, and enthusiasts alike.
In India, the XC90 embodies Volvo’s philosophy of understated luxury, offering a refined driving experience paired with a robust suite of safety features. The 2025 facelift brings subtle yet meaningful updates, including a redesigned grille, enhanced interior technology, and a continued focus on sustainability with its mild-hybrid powertrain. Priced competitively within the luxury SUV category, the XC90 is positioned as a worthy alternative to German giants like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Audi Q7. This detailed exploration delves into the technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of what makes the XC90 a standout choice in India, alongside its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Volvo XC90 is engineered to deliver a seamless blend of performance, efficiency, and safety. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced from reputable platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, ensuring accuracy as of March 25, 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0L Turbocharged Petrol with Mild-Hybrid Tech |
| Displacement | 1969 cc |
| Max Power | 247 bhp @ 5500 rpm (B5 Variant); 300 PS (B6 Variant) |
| Max Torque | 360 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm (B5); 420 Nm (B6) |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol + Electric (Mild-Hybrid) |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 12.38 kmpl (B5); 17.2 kmpl (B6) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 Litres |
| Ground Clearance | 238 mm (267 mm with air suspension in off-road mode) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4953 mm x 2140 mm x 1776 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2984 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2095 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Boot Space | 680 Litres (with third row folded) |
| Suspension (Front) | Double Wishbone with Air Suspension |
| Suspension (Rear) | Integral Link with Air Suspension |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc / Disc |
| Tyre Size | 235/65 R17 (Base); 275/45 R20 (Higher Variants) |
| Top Speed | 230 kmph (electronically limited) |
| 0-100 kmph | 7.7 seconds (B6 Variant) |
| Emission Norm Compliance | BS6 Phase 2 |
These specifications highlight the XC90’s capability as a powerful yet efficient luxury SUV, tailored to Indian driving conditions with its adjustable air suspension and robust AWD system.
Variants
The Volvo XC90 in India is offered in two distinct variants, both equipped with the same mild-hybrid powertrain but differing in power output and feature sets. Below is a table detailing the variants available as of March 2025.
| Variant | Key Features |
|---|---|
| B5 AWD Mild-Hybrid Ultra | 247 bhp, 9-inch touchscreen, 10-speaker audio, 4-zone climate control, 8 airbags |
| B6 Ultimate | 300 PS, 11.2-inch touchscreen, 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio, massage seats |
The B5 Ultra serves as the entry-level option, balancing luxury and affordability, while the B6 Ultimate is the fully-loaded flagship, offering premium features like ventilated seats and advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems).
Price in Metro Cities
The pricing of the Volvo XC90 varies across India’s metro cities due to differences in taxes, registration fees, and insurance costs. Below is a table of the on-road prices (as of March 25, 2025) sourced from CarDekho and ZigWheels, reflecting introductory ex-showroom prices of ₹1.03 Crore for the B6 Ultimate variant.
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) | On-Road Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 1.03 Crore | 1.16 Crore |
| Mumbai | 1.03 Crore | 1.18 Crore |
| Bangalore | 1.03 Crore | 1.20 Crore |
| Chennai | 1.03 Crore | 1.19 Crore |
| Kolkata | 1.03 Crore | 1.17 Crore |
These prices are indicative and may vary based on dealer offers, optional accessories, and annual tax revisions. The B5 Ultra is slightly cheaper, with an ex-showroom price of approximately ₹1.01 Crore, translating to an on-road cost of around ₹1.14 Crore in Delhi.
About the Volvo XC90
Design and Aesthetics
The Volvo XC90 exudes a timeless Scandinavian charm, characterized by clean lines, a bold front grille, and the iconic Thor’s Hammer LED headlights. The 2025 facelift introduces a sharper grille design with the latest Volvo logo, subtly tweaked bumpers, and redesigned alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the variant. Available in six striking colors—Crystal White Pearl, Onyx Black, Denim Blue, Mulberry Red, Vapour Grey, and Bright Dusk—the XC90’s exterior strikes a balance between elegance and authority. The Denim Blue shade, in particular, enhances its premium appeal, making it a favorite among Indian buyers.
Inside, the cabin is a masterclass in minimalist luxury. The use of high-quality materials like Nappa leather, open-pore wood trims, and a crystal gear knob elevates the experience. The dashboard features dual digital displays—a 12.3-inch driver display and an 11.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the B6 variant (9-inch in the B5)—offering crisp graphics and seamless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Bowers & Wilkins 19-speaker sound system in the B6 Ultimate variant delivers concert-like audio clarity, making every journey a sensory delight.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the XC90 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system, available in two tunes: 247 bhp (B5) and 300 PS (B6). The 8-speed automatic transmission channels power to all four wheels, ensuring confident handling on diverse Indian terrains, from urban highways to monsoon-soaked rural roads. The mild-hybrid tech enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, aligning with Volvo’s sustainability goals, while the air suspension adapts to road conditions, raising the ground clearance from 238 mm to 267 mm in off-road mode.
The XC90 isn’t the sportiest SUV in its class—rivals like the BMW X5 offer sharper dynamics—but it excels in delivering a smooth, refined ride. The 0-100 kmph sprint in 7.7 seconds (B6) is impressive for a 7-seater weighing over 2 tons, and the electronically limited top speed of 230 kmph ensures it’s no slouch. Indian owners appreciate the suspension’s ability to absorb potholes and uneven surfaces, a critical factor given the country’s varied road quality. However, some critics note that the third-row seating lacks under-thigh support, making it better suited for children or short trips.
Safety: Volvo’s Hallmark
Volvo’s reputation for safety is unrivaled, and the XC90 upholds this legacy with a comprehensive suite of features. It boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP rating (pre-facelift model, with the 2025 version expected to maintain this standard). Standard safety equipment includes 8 airbags, ABS with EBD, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. The IntelliSafe suite adds radar-based ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot detection, cross-traffic alert, and collision avoidance with city braking. Real-world anecdotes from Indian owners highlight instances where the automatic braking system averted potential accidents, reinforcing Volvo’s claim of being the safest brand on Indian roads.
Comfort and Practicality
The XC90 is designed with family-oriented luxury in mind. The first two rows offer ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder space, with adjustable, ventilated, and massaging seats in the B6 variant enhancing comfort on long drives. The third row, while functional, is best for smaller passengers due to limited space. With all seats up, the boot offers 680 litres of cargo space, expandable significantly when the third row is folded—ideal for weekend getaways or airport runs. Features like four-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a PM2.5 air purifier ensure a plush, healthy cabin environment, particularly valuable in India’s polluted metro cities.
Technology and Features
The XC90 is a tech-lover’s dream, blending convenience with innovation. The 11.2-inch touchscreen (B6) runs on a Google Android Automotive system, integrating Google Maps and voice-activated Google Assistant, alongside wireless phone mirroring. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system stands out as a premium offering, rivaling setups in higher-priced competitors. Other highlights include powered front seats with memory, a 360-degree camera, park assist, and a head-up display (optional). However, some users find the infotainment interface requires a learning curve, a minor trade-off for its advanced functionality.
Ownership Experience in India
Owning a Volvo XC90 in India comes with its perks and challenges. Volvo’s service network, while expanding, remains limited compared to German rivals, with major centers in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Maintenance costs are on the higher side, typical of luxury SUVs, but Volvo mitigates this with enticing service packages. The brand’s focus on durability suggests the XC90 can exceed 200,000 miles with proper care, a testament to its build quality. Fuel efficiency, at 12.38-17.2 kmpl, is reasonable for its class, though not class-leading, especially against diesel-powered competitors.
Market Positioning and Value Proposition
Priced between ₹1.01-1.03 Crore (ex-showroom), the XC90 targets buyers seeking a premium 7-seater without the ostentatious flair of rivals. It undercuts the BMW X5 (₹96 Lakh) and Audi Q7 (₹88.7 Lakh) in base pricing while offering comparable luxury and superior safety. The Mercedes-Benz GLE, starting at ₹97 Lakh, provides a stronger luxury appeal, but the XC90’s understated elegance and hybrid tech give it a unique edge. In India, where safety and family utility are prized, the XC90’s blend of practicality and sophistication makes it a compelling choice, though its pricing has sparked debate—some argue it could be a steal at ₹90 Lakh on-road.
Close Competitors
The Volvo XC90 faces stiff competition in India’s luxury SUV segment. Here’s an in-depth look at its closest rivals:
BMW X5
The BMW X5 is a performance-oriented alternative, starting at ₹96 Lakh (ex-showroom). Powered by a 3.0L inline-6 engine (petrol/diesel options), it delivers 340 bhp and accelerates from 0-100 kmph in 5.5 seconds—outpacing the XC90. Its sporty handling and luxurious interior appeal to enthusiasts, but it lacks the XC90’s third-row seating and extensive safety suite. Fuel efficiency (13-15 kmpl) is competitive, and BMW’s wider service network is a plus in India.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
The Mercedes-Benz GLE (₹97 Lakh onwards) epitomizes luxury with its plush cabin, 2.0L turbo-petrol/diesel engines (255-330 bhp), and a 9-speed automatic. It offers a smoother ride than the X5 and a more opulent feel than the XC90, but its safety features, while robust, don’t match Volvo’s breadth. The GLE’s third row is optional, and its on-road price often exceeds the XC90’s, making it a costlier proposition.
Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 (₹88.7 Lakh onwards) is the XC90’s closest rival in size and utility. Its 3.0L V6 petrol engine (340 bhp) and Quattro AWD system deliver spirited performance (0-100 kmph in 5.9 seconds), while the 7-seater layout mirrors the XC90. Audi’s tech-laden cabin and broader dealership network give it an edge, but its safety kit, though advanced, falls short of Volvo’s benchmark. Priced lower, it’s a value-driven option.
Land Rover Range Rover Velar
The Range Rover Velar (₹87.9 Lakh) offers a sleek design and off-road prowess with a 2.0L petrol/diesel engine (247-296 bhp). It lacks a third row, positioning it as a 5-seater alternative. Its premium cabin and brand cachet appeal to style-conscious buyers, but the XC90 outshines it in safety and practicality, though the Velar’s lower price is attractive.
Final Thoughts!
The Volvo XC90 is a standout in India’s luxury SUV market, blending Scandinavian elegance, top-tier safety, and family-friendly utility. Its 2025 facelift refines an already impressive package, with the B6 Ultimate variant offering unmatched features like massage seats and premium audio, while the B5 Ultra caters to value seekers. Priced between ₹1.14-1.20 Crore on-road, it competes admirably with the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7, and Range Rover Velar, carving a niche with its hybrid efficiency and safety focus. While its service network and third-row comfort could improve, the XC90 remains a compelling choice for those prioritizing refinement, reliability, and peace of mind on Indian roads.
