The 2026 Volvo XC90 has landed in Australia with a stylish mid-life update, now priced from $104,990 before on-road costs. With sharper styling, upgraded infotainment, and a more streamlined variant lineup, the updated XC90 remains a top choice for families seeking a premium SUV that blends Scandinavian luxury with cutting-edge safety and hybrid tech, despite the price bump.
2026 Volvo XC90 exterior changes and interior upgrades
After a decade on sale, the Volvo XC90’s mid-life update focuses on refinement rather than revolution. The front end gets slimmer LED headlights and a new diagonal-pattern grille, while revised tail-lights and fresh alloy wheel designs keep it looking contemporary.
Inside, the big news is the new 11.2-inch touchscreen (up from 9.0 inches), running Volvo’s latest Android Automotive OS with built-in Google services. The dashboard has been redesigned with a cleaner horizontal layout and sustainable materials, while practical upgrades include:
- Extra centre console storage
- An additional cupholder
- Repositioned wireless charger
2026 Volvo XC90 variants and price hike
Volvo has trimmed the XC90 range, removing the mid-spec Ultra B6 Bright. That leaves just two variants: the mild-hybrid Ultra B5 Bright and the high-performance plug-in hybrid Ultra T8.
Here’s how the pricing stacks up:
2026 Volvo XC90 pricing in Australia
| Variant | Price (Before On-Road Costs) | Price Increase |
| Volvo XC90 Ultra B5 Bright | $104,990 | +$5050 |
| Volvo XC90 Ultra T8 PHEV | $130,990 | +$2600 |
Note: All prices mentioned are exclusive of the on-road costs that will be levied in accordance with the city you live in.
Volvo XC90 2026 powertrain and performance
The Ultra B5 continues with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system, which improves efficiency and provides short bursts of additional power.
The Ultra T8 PHEV steps things up with a supercharged and turbocharged engine, a 107kW electric motor, and an 18.8kWh battery. It delivers punchy acceleration and a respectable EV-only range.
2026 Volvo XC90 Powertrain Specs
| Variant | Engine & Powertrain | Output | Range / 0–100 km/h |
| Ultra B5 Bright | 2.0L turbo petrol + 48V mild hybrid (AWD) | 183kW / 350Nm | — |
| Ultra T8 PHEV | 2.0L turbo + supercharger + 107kW e-motor (AWD) | 340kW combined | 77km EV / 5.3 sec |
The adaptive suspension system has also been updated. Volvo claims it now allows each damper to adapt to road conditions independently — meaning a smoother, more confident ride, regardless of what Aussie roads throw at it.
Safety and Tech still follow Volvo’s strong suit
True to form, the Volvo XC90 packs Volvo’s latest safety tech:
- Pilot Assist (semi-autonomous highway driving)
- Cyclist-aware blind-spot monitoring
- Cross-traffic alert for tight parking spots
Standard luxury touches include a head-up display, ambient lighting, and powered front seats with memory. The T8 PHEV adds premium extras like a Bowers & Wilkins sound system and adaptive air suspension.
Our verdict
With rivals like the BMW X5 and Lexus RX pushing six figures as well, the Volvo XC90’s blend of safety, Scandinavian style, and hybrid tech keeps it competitive, but the price hike sure stings. For families wanting a luxurious, tech-packed seven-seater, it remains a compelling option, though the deletion of the mid-spec B6 leaves a noticeable gap in the range.
Would you pay over $100K for the updated Volvo XC90 or look at alternatives? Let us know in the comments!
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