By Otsile Kadiege

Volvo’s updated flagship SUV, the XC90, is en route to South Africa with subtle exterior design updates and the incorporation of new mild-hybrid petrol engines, which the Swedish automaker claims will deliver a more fuel-efficient and smoother driving experience.

The current XC90 T5 will be replaced by the new XC90 B5 while the current XC90 T6 will be replaced by the new XC90 B6. The two new models will be joined by the XC90 T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid.

The two newcomers feature mild-hybrid petrol engines with a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) that recovers brake energy to charge a 48V battery. An integrated starter generator uses this energy to support the combustion engine.

The new XC90 will feature an updated eight-speed Geartronic gearbox with shift-by-wire as well as a new stop/start system. The former affords drivers a far more enjoyable driving experience; shift-by-wire technology allows drivers to control the transmission electrically. The latter is a vastly improved system, which ensures that the switching off and on functions are barely discernible. The system also responds much faster.

Volvo has simplified many options in order to reduce confusion amongst customers. For instance, there is a simplified upholstery offering, the alloy wheel programme has been consolidated and the exterior colour palette has also been updated.