Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) introduced the refined XC90 to the South African market.
What is it?
It is the brand’s flagship seven-seater SUV build for comfort, safety and sensible efficiency. The refreshed XC90 brings cleaner lines, a calmer cabin and the latest user experience, while preserving the XC90’s practical spirit and long-distance capability, claims Volvo.
Power:
In Pure mode, the XC90 T8 PHEV offers over 70km of electric range on the WLTP Cycle, making many daily trips emission-free. Real-world data indicates that a significant portion of the distance in modern plug-in hybrids is driven on electric power.
For extended journeys, the hybrid powertrain combines the electric system with a petrol engine to deliver a driving range of over 800km.
Locally, the XC90 will continue to be offered with mild-hybrid petrol (B5) options alongside the plug-in hybrid (T8). The B5 variant pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48-volt battery and integrated starter generator (ISG) to reduce fuel use in everyday driving. The engine output is 183kW and 350Nm of torque.
The plug-in hybrid model, the T8 PHEV, delivers combined outputs of 340kW and 709Nm.
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to all four wheels.
Interior and exterior updates:
The updated interior features a more horizontal dashboard and new decorative inlays providing a textured, contemporary look. Vertical air vents and ambient lighting add a refined feel after dark. Additional practical changes have been made to the cabin. For example, the centre console now features additional storage and an extra cup holder.
At the same time, the wireless phone charger has been repositioned behind the central tunnel, keeping the main storage area clear. With the second and third rows folded flat, cargo space expands to a generous 1 950 litres, while keeping all three rows in place still offers a practical 301 litres of storage.
For the ultimate luxury experience, the XC90 Ultra is equipped with a Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system, providing an immersive listening experience. A Harmon Kardon Premium Sound system is standard on the Plus trims.
Both the B5 MHEV and T8 PHEV are available in Plus or Ultra trims, providing XC90 buyers with a broad range of choices.
On the outside, Matrix LED headlights are fitted across the range, flanking the redesigned grille.
Prices:
XC90 B5 Plus (R1 555 500), XC90 B5 Ultra (R1 657 500), XC90 T8 PHEV Plus (R1 834 500) and the XC90 T8 PHEV Ultra (R1 936 500).
The South African motor industry has lost one of its longstanding business figures following the passing of Jebb McIntosh, the group chief executive of Combined Motor Holdings (CMH), on Monday, 2 November 2026.
“South Africa’s automotive industry has been AGOA’s largest user, but for the sector the preference has already been largely overridden by the 25% Section 232 tariffs applied on vehicles and components. Losing AGOA adds a further cost to an industry that has already absorbed a significant shock.”
Foton has started building vehicles in South Africa, and the first overseas vehicle manufacturing base of BAIC Group is now in Gqeberha.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
MG Motor South Africa used its MG Tech Day and Premium SUV Family launch event to show what is coming to its SUV range. The brand was founded in Britain in 1924, and in 1931 its EX120 ‘Magic Midget’ became the first 750 cc car to exceed 160 km/h.
Tata Motors has expanded its local SUV portfolio with the launch of the all-new Punch. Available in three derivatives, the compact SUV introduces refreshed styling, upgraded technology and six airbags as standard across the range, while also becoming the first Punch sold locally with a turbocharged engine option.
Isuzu Motors South Africa has introduced its all-new seventh-generation N-Series truck range, representing the most comprehensive update to the company's light and medium-duty commercial vehicle line-up in years.
