A new look and some upgraded specifications mark an early 2013 for the three-row Volvo XC90 .
Volvo ’s evergreen XC90 crossover debuted more than 10 years ago at the 2002 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, but it has received 322 changes for 2013.
The crossover’s bones are still circa-2002, but a larger, all-new model is set to bow sometime next year as either a 2014 or 2015 model year vehicle.
For 2013, however, there are some modest changes across the board. Outside, the XC90 gets new color-coordinated trim with revised bumpers, sill moldings and wheel arches. In addition, standard LED running lights and tail lamps add a fresh-tech look. Base XC90s receive a new silver front “bumper bar” and chrome and silk matte exterior trim. Two new colors, Twilight Bronze and Flaminco Red, are on the options list.
Inside, the XC90 gains new sanded silver aluminum inlays and white instrument lighting, as well as a leather tailgate strap. The higher-end Premium Plus and Platinum trim levels gain special Sovereign hide soft leather and walnut wood, while a revised wood rimmed steering wheel is newly available.
The performance-oriented XC90 R-Designs returns with its own exterior trim and 19-inch Ixion alloy wheels. R-Designs also ride on a sport suspension and feature revised steering, as well as unique leather seats and R-Design badging throughout.
Regardless of trim level, XC90 remains a three-row crossover targeted at family buyers.
Underhood, XC90s retain Volvo’s 3.2-liter straight six, which cranks out 240 horsepower and 236 lb-ft. of torque. Full synthetic motor oil is now recommended, but the service interval has been increased from 7,500 to 10,000 miles. A six-speed automatic puts power to either the front or all four wheels, depending on specification.
A once-optional V8 engine was discontinued for 2011.
XC90s start at $39,500 before a $875 destination charge. That represents a $1,100 increase over the short model year 2012. The XC90 R-Design lists from $42,300.
