When the Volvo XC90 first arrived in its current generation, it completely changed the way people viewed luxury SUVs. Clean Scandinavian styling, incredible safety features, and a calm, premium interior made it one of the most recognizable three-row SUVs on the road.

 

Fast forward to 2026, and Volvo has given the XC90 its biggest refresh in years. While it may look familiar at first glance, the newest XC90 brings major improvements in technology, comfort, refinement, and overall driving experience.

 

So… if you already own a 2023 XC90, is upgrading to the 2026 actually worth it?

The overall silhouette of the XC90 hasn’t changed much and honestly, that’s a good thing. Volvo’s design has aged incredibly well. But the 2026 model receives several subtle updates that modernize the SUV without losing its signature identity.

 

The front grille is now wider and more flush with the body, giving the SUV a cleaner and more upscale appearance. Volvo also redesigned the iconic “Thor’s Hammer” headlights with a slimmer, more modern look.

 

New wheel designs and updated exterior colors help complete the refresh.

 

The 2023 XC90 still looks fantastic, but parked side-by-side, the 2026 definitely feels newer and more refined.

This is where the 2026 XC90 really separates itself.

 

The 2023 XC90 already featured Volvo’s minimalist Scandinavian interior design, but the 2026 model introduces a redesigned dashboard, updated materials, improved sound insulation, and a much larger infotainment display.

 

One of the most noticeable upgrades is the new 11.2-inch touchscreen. Volvo’s updated infotainment system is quicker, cleaner, and easier to use compared to the older setup found in the 2023 model.

 

Google integration and faster response times make the cabin feel far more modern.

 

Volvo also focused heavily on cabin quietness for 2026, borrowing techniques from the all-electric EX90 to reduce road noise and improve overall comfort.

 

If technology and interior refinement matter to you, this is easily the strongest reason to upgrade.

Both the 2023 and 2026 XC90 offer mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, but Volvo made meaningful refinements to the newer model.

 

The available T8 plug-in hybrid remains the performance standout, producing impressive horsepower while still offering electric-only driving capability for shorter trips.

 

What really changes in 2026 is the ride quality. Volvo updated the suspension tuning to improve comfort over rough roads.

 

The result is a smoother, quieter, and more composed driving experience compared to the 2023 model.

The 2023 XC90 marked the beginning of Volvo’s newer trim structure, replacing older names like Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription with Core, Plus, and Ultimate trims.

 

For 2026, Volvo continues refining those trims while adding:

• Updated driver assistance features
• New styling themes
• Additional comfort upgrades
• New wheel and color options
• More premium interior touches

 

These updates may sound small individually, but together they make the XC90 feel more premium and up-to-date.

If you currently own a 2023 XC90 and still love it, you’re not driving an outdated SUV. The XC90 has remained one of the best-looking luxury SUVs for years, and Volvo didn’t reinvent the formula for 2026.

 

But if you care about:

• Better infotainment
• A quieter cabin
• Improved ride comfort
• Updated styling
• Newer technology

 

…the 2026 XC90 feels like a significant refinement of an already great SUV.

 

The changes aren’t revolutionary they’re intentional. Volvo took what people already loved about the XC90 and made it feel more modern, more luxurious, and more competitive in today’s luxury SUV market.

The 2023 XC90 still holds up extremely well in 2026. But after spending time with the refreshed model, it’s clear Volvo focused on improving the everyday ownership experience.

 

The 2026 XC90 doesn’t try to completely reinvent itself. Instead, it refines nearly everything that made the XC90 successful in the first place and that makes it one of the most well-rounded luxury SUVs Volvo has ever built.