Changes freshen up the Volvo XC90 as it heads towards its 10th birthday

Volvo's evergreen XC90 is to benefit from a series of improvements as it head towards its 10th birthday.

Launched in 2002, the versatile seven-seater has been a regular at the top of the luxury SUV sales charts and now, in its ninth year of production, it benefits from a series of improvements. 

The new-look XC90 is marked apart on the outside with LED daytime running lights in the lower bumper and a a new lower door moulding. All XC90 specifications are now fully colour-coordinated.

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

Inside there's a three-spoke steering wheel, aluminium decor as standard and a 'watch dial-inspired instrument design' with white lighting. 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.

Executive specification adds a number of options such as soft leather seats with ventilation and massage, as well as a number of details with a more exclusive finish.

R-Design versions have a sportier edge, with a redesigned upholstery, inlays, door panels and new Ixion 19-inch wheels.

The XC90 with the latest refinements will be available to order from late October 2011.

See also: Volvo XC90 Review