It was on February 22, 2019, when Volvo unwrapped the refreshed XC90. Today, the Swedish carmaker has unveiled the mid-life updates of the S90 sedan and the V90 range. As near as makes no difference, the gap between those events is precisely one year. To create them, Volvo has introduced some cosmetic trickery on the outside, a couple of technology upgrades indoors and more efficient powertrains.

Starting with the minute design tweaks, both the S90 and V90 get new fog lamps, restyled spoiler and a new lower front bumper. As per Volvo, the most striking feature on the estate (V90) and its rugged version (V90 Cross Country) is a “brand new rear light design”. In all fairness, what Volvo has done is reprofile the taillamp enclosures and inject LED-powered units and a sequential turn indicator. Finally, there are new exterior colours and wheel options available.

Indoors, the ambience remains just as Swedish as before. Volvo’s main focus was to pack more gizmos. So, there is an upgraded Bowers and Wilkins audio system. The term “upgraded” gains justification from a tweaked amplifier, automatic vehicle noise cancellation and a new setting that, in Volvo’s words, “mimics the sound of your favourite jazz club”. Another new feature is an air purifier with a PM 2.5 particle sensor. The Chinese market was the first to get it in a Volvo.

The company says that the upgraded audio system and the air purifier are available on all 90 and 60 series models. Joining the same list is a wireless mobile charger (on offer with most variants), the options of tailored wool-blend seats and a leather-free interior (for the range-topping trim levels), and replacing the 12-volt outlets are double USB-C charging ports for the rear passengers.

On a broader level, Volvo has announced all its models are now available with the 48-volt mild-hybrid system option. That, as we are well aware, not only aids the engine in specific scenarios but also boosts mileage numbers and lowers harmful emissions. As per the Swedish company, one could expect fuel savings of up to 15 per cent.

So, do you think that the refreshed S90 and V90 have enough to entice customers away from the competition?