Another refresh for Volvo XC90

Volvo's venerable XC90 has come in for another makeover to maintain buyer interest in the medium-large SUV, which is now in its ninth year of production.

It'll take a keen Volvo spotter to pick up on the visual changes, which include a new LED daytime running light cluster in the lower bumper, a redesigned silver metallic bumper insert and standard silver roof rails. There is also a new lower door moulding and all XC90 model variants are now fully colour-coordinated.

Out back, the new tail lamps have dual light guides, LED brake lights and a silver turn indicator bulb (still with orange light). The updates include a new six-spoke 18-inch wheel design in a silver matt finish.

The tailgate, which is divided into an upper and a lower section, now comes with a new, colour-coordinated leather grab handle. The load cover has also been redesigned.

In addition, there are a few interior tweaks to endow the cabin with a more luxurious feel, and among these are a mildly revised three-spoke steering wheel, aluminium décor as standard and watch dial-inspired instrument design with white lighting.

Exact local spec levels are yet to be confirmed, but international models will also be available in an 'Executive' specification, which adds goodies such as soft leather seats with ventilation and massage, plus better trim throughout the cabin.

Meanwhile, the R-Design version gives the vehicle a more driver-focused character with its firmed-up chassis, Ixion 19-inch wheels and redesigned upholstery, inlays and door panels.

Also new is a mobile application that enables the driver to stay in touch with the parked car via an iPhone or Android smart phone. The mobile application is an extension of Volvo's On Call system.

Owners of vehicles with the latest Volvo On Call system can download the mobile application that opens up a range of possibilities, such as:

Car locator – The location of the car is shown on a map. There is also a digital compass that points the driver in the right direction.

Vehicle dashboard – This feature gives the driver access to a wide range of information: fuel level, remaining range to empty tank, average fuel consumption, average speed, odometer reading and trip meter reading.

Car check – The mobile app performs a 'health check' of the car, displaying information about bulbs, brake fluid level, coolant level, engine oil level and engine oil pressure.

The XC90 launched internationally in 2002 and continues to sell in steady numbers, with 37,000 examples finding new homes around the world in 2010.

Locally, the vehicle notched up 854 sales until the end of August this year, placing it midfield in the luxury SUV segment.

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