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 something instantly calming about climbing into a Volvo. Maybe it’s the simplicity, perhaps the brand’s reputation for safety or possibly it’s just the fact that everything in the design is there for a reason.
Volvos have a way of winning you over, without making a scene – smooth, sensible and just a little bit smug in the best way. So, when the team at Volvo Bahrain handed us the keys to the 2025 XC90 B5, the mild-hybrid luxury SUV, we had a feeling we were in for something quietly brilliant. Spoiler: we weren’t wrong.
A MODERN MAKEOVER
The XC90 has never been one to scream for attention, and that’s a big part of its charm. This refresh keeps the same elegant silhouette but adds the right amount of sharpness. It’s like seeing an old friend after a good haircut – recognisable, but just a little more put together.
There’s a new crispness to the lines, with a chrome-accented grille, sleek LED headlights and bright aluminium window trim that gives it a refined polish. Our test model came with 21-inch diamond-cut alloys that not only looked the part but also contributed to a smooth, composed ride.
The panoramic sunroof adds a lovely sense of openness both inside and out, while the roof rails offer a hint of versatility – even if they’ll probably never carry more than a cargo box.
COMFY AND CLASSY CABIN
If the outside was about quiet confidence, the inside was all about calm luxury. The cabin feels like it was designed by someone who understands how to make long trips comfortable and who probably owns one too many cashmere throws.
The dashboard stretches horizontally, creating a broad, open feel. Grey ash décor, vertical air vents and soft-touch materials surrounded us, while small details, like the Orrefors crystal gear selector, added just the right amount of flair.
The ventilated Nappa seats are an experience in themselves. They heat, cool, power adjust and have memory settings for multiple drivers. No one gets the short straw in this seven-seater as even the third row gets its own vents and climate controls.
Storage has been thoughtfully improved, with a redesigned centre console offering space for phones, drinks, snacks and the usual everyday bits. Subtle ambient lighting adds a warm glow in the evenings, making the entire cabin feel more like a lounge than a car.
SMART, SIMPLE, SEAMLESS TECH
The new Google-powered infotainment system is genuinely one of the easiest we’ve used. The 11-inch touchscreen is responsive, intuitive and mercifully free of confusing menus. Voice commands work well too, even with music playing and windows open.
“It felt like the car was constantly one step ahead, whether merging onto busy roads or navigating tight parking spots.”
Behind the wheel, the 12-inch digital display keeps key information right where you need it. But if you love your tunes, the real star of the show is the Harman Kardon sound system. It delivered rich, immersive audio across every genre – even our guilty pleasure playlists.
Other innovative features include a discreet wireless charging pad, seamless integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and full connectivity through the Volvo Cars app.
EFFORTLESS EFFICIENCY
While the B5 may not be a plug-in, it still utilises mild-hybrid technology to enhance efficiency and smoothness. The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine is supported by a 48V battery and an integrated starter-generator, helping to reduce fuel consumption and emissions without the need for plugging in.
On the road, the B5 delivered responsive acceleration and a composed drive, thanks to the eight-speed Geartronic automatic and adaptive power steering. The all-wheel drive setup provided us with confident grip on both city streets and open highways.
It’s not designed to pin you to the seat, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s about making everyday driving smoother, calmer and just a little more refined, which it does effortlessly.
STEP IT UP
If you’re after more electric range and performance, Volvo also offers the XC90 as a T8 plug-in hybrid. It delivers up to 70km of pure electric driving and combines this with strong petrol performance for a total output of 462hp. Ideal if you want more punch with fewer fuel stops.
SAFETY COMES STANDARD
Volvo has long been a showpiece for automotive safety and the XC90 continues that legacy. Pilot assist, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, tyre pressure monitoring and a 360-degree camera system all come as standard on the B5, along with a comprehensive suite of passive systems.
It felt like the car was constantly one step ahead, whether merging onto busy roads or navigating tight parking spots. Add in a reinforced safety cage, ISOFIX mounts and an integrated booster seat and it’s clear families are top of mind here.
OUR VERDICT
The 2025 Volvo XC90 B5 is a masterclass in understated luxury. It’s comfortable, clever and confidently safe – no drama, no unnecessary flair – just a beautifully built SUV that understands the assignment.
For more information, please call Volvo Bahrain on 1750 0900.
@volvocarbh