OHLALA GOT ITS HANDS ON THE NEW VOLVO XC90 B5, AN SUV THAT DIDN’T SHOUT FOR OUR ATTENTION – IT SIMPLY EARNED OUR RESPECT, ONE INTELLIGENT DETAIL AT A TIME.

There’s one thing immediately calming about climbing right into a Volvo. Possibly it’s the simplicity, maybe the model’s popularity for security or probably it’s simply the truth that all the pieces within the design is there for a cause.

Volvos have a manner of successful you over, with out making a scene – easy, wise and just a bit bit smug in one of the simplest ways. So, when the crew at Volvo Bahrain handed us the keys to the 2025 XC90 B5, the mild-hybrid luxurious SUV, we had a sense we had been in for one thing quietly good. Spoiler: we weren’t mistaken.

A MODERN MAKEOVER

The XC90 has by no means been one to scream for consideration, and that’s a giant a part of its attraction. This refresh retains the identical elegant silhouette however provides the correct quantity of sharpness. It’s like seeing an previous buddy after a great haircut – recognisable, however just a bit extra put collectively.

There’s a brand new crispness to the strains, with a chrome-accented grille, smooth LED headlights and shiny aluminium window trim that offers it a refined polish. Our check mannequin got here with 21-inch diamond-cut alloys that not solely appeared the half but additionally contributed to a easy, composed journey.

The panoramic sunroof provides a beautiful sense of openness each inside and outside, whereas the roof rails provide a touch of versatility – even when they’ll in all probability by no means carry greater than a cargo field.

COMFY AND CLASSY CABIN

If the surface was about quiet confidence, the within was all about calm luxurious. The cabin feels prefer it was designed by somebody who understands find out how to make lengthy journeys snug and who in all probability owns one too many cashmere throws.

The dashboard stretches horizontally, making a broad, open really feel. Gray ash décor, vertical air vents and soft-touch supplies surrounded us, whereas small particulars, just like the Orrefors crystal gear selector, added simply the correct quantity of aptitude.

The ventilated Nappa seats are an expertise in themselves. They warmth, cool, energy regulate and have reminiscence settings for a number of drivers. Nobody will get the quick straw on this seven-seater as even the third row will get its personal vents and local weather controls.

Storage has been thoughtfully improved, with a redesigned centre console providing area for telephones, drinks, snacks and the standard on a regular basis bits. Refined ambient lighting provides a heat glow within the evenings, making your entire cabin really feel extra like a lounge than a automotive.

SMART, SIMPLE, SEAMLESS TECH

The brand new Google-powered infotainment system is genuinely one of many best we’ve used. The 11-inch touchscreen is responsive, intuitive and mercifully freed from complicated menus. Voice instructions work effectively too, even with music taking part in and home windows open.

“It felt just like the automotive was always one step forward, whether or not merging onto busy roads or navigating tight parking spots.”

Behind the wheel, the 12-inch digital show retains key data proper the place you want it. However should you love your tunes, the true star of the present is the Harman Kardon sound system. It delivered wealthy, immersive audio throughout each style – even our responsible pleasure playlists.

Different modern options embrace a discreet wi-fi charging pad, seamless integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and full connectivity by way of the Volvo Automobiles app.

EFFORTLESS EFFICIENCY

Whereas the B5 is probably not a plug-in, it nonetheless utilises mild-hybrid know-how to boost effectivity and smoothness. The two.0-litre turbocharged engine is supported by a 48V battery and an built-in starter-generator, serving to to scale back gas consumption and emissions with out the necessity for plugging in.

On the highway, the B5 delivered responsive acceleration and a composed drive, due to the eight-speed Geartronic computerized and adaptive energy steering. The all-wheel drive setup offered us with assured grip on each metropolis streets and open highways.

It’s not designed to pin you to the seat, however it doesn’t have to be. It’s about making on a regular basis driving smoother, calmer and just a bit extra refined, which it does effortlessly.

STEP IT UP

In case you’re after extra electrical vary and efficiency, Volvo additionally provides the XC90 as a T8 plug-in hybrid. It delivers as much as 70km of pure electrical driving and combines this with sturdy petrol efficiency for a complete output of 462hp. Best in order for you extra punch with fewer gas stops.

SAFETY COMES STANDARD

Volvo has lengthy been a showpiece for automotive security and the XC90 continues that legacy. Pilot help, adaptive cruise management, lane holding, tyre stress monitoring and a 360-degree digital camera system all come as normal on the B5, together with a complete suite of passive methods.

It felt just like the automotive was always one step forward, whether or not merging onto busy roads or navigating tight parking spots. Add in a strengthened security cage, ISOFIX mounts and an built-in booster seat and it’s clear households are prime of thoughts right here.

OUR VERDICT

The 2025 Volvo XC90 B5 is a masterclass in understated luxurious. It’s snug, intelligent and confidently secure – no drama, no pointless aptitude – only a fantastically constructed SUV that understands the task.

For extra data, please name Volvo Bahrain on 1750 0900.
@volvocarbh