Volvo's latest infotainment system introduced on the heavily updated 2025.5 XC90 and 2025 EX90 electric newcomer will be made available to owners of older models.
In announcing the new system on Wednesday, Volvo said owners of vehicles built as early as 2020 will be able to upgrade to the new system free of charge. It will be available via an over-the-air update for those vehicles equipped with Google built-in.
Volvo said around 2.5 million vehicles around the globe are eligible.
The new system is still based on Google's Android operating system, but is simpler to use than the previous system and makes access to frequently used apps and controls much quicker, as these are now presented on the home screen.
2025.5 Volvo XC90
Volvo gave the example of the driver no longer having to exit Google Maps during navigation when they want to turn on a media player.
Another new feature that makes the user experience easier is a contextual bar. This provides relevant information based on the current situation and displays the most recently used apps. It will also display the icon for camera monitoring whenever the vehicle is driving at low, parking speeds.
The system also makes it easier for owners of plug-in hybrid Volvos to change the drive mode, as there's a dedicated icon on the home screen.
Volvo Chief Product and Strategy Officer Erik Severinson said the automaker plans to continuously enhance the user experience over time both for new customers and owners of older vehicles, so future updates are likely.
