2012 Volvo XC90: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Volvo XC90 is a reorganized trim structure, with new Premier Plus and Platinum versions above the 3.2 and 3.2 R-Design. The V8 is dropped, Bluetooth audio streaming becomes standard, and the rest of the SUV receives only light updates.
About the 2012 Volvo XC90
1st generation (2003-2014 US), late-cycle update year; 2012 is the last pre-refresh model year before the more visible 2013 appearance update.
Volvo positioned the XC90 as its flagship family SUV for active households that wanted seven seats, flexible cargo space, and a strong safety story without moving to a truck-like vehicle. Its biggest differentiators were Volvo’s long-standing safety focus, the built-in second-row child booster cushion, and a cabin set up for family use. Compared with rivals, the XC90 leaned more toward secure, practical family transport than outright speed or flashy luxury.
The 2012 XC90 is a seven-seat premium family SUV with a 240-horsepower six-cylinder engine, leather seats, a power moonroof and an integrated second-row child booster cushion. The R-Design adds a firmer suspension and steering, 20-inch wheels, distinctive exterior trim and sportier cabin details rather than more power. Premier Plus and Platinum versions form the upper end of the reorganized range.
What changed, by category
2012 Volvo XC90 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, 3.2 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 240 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 4960 lb | 4960 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 85.1 cu-ft | 85.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 30.1 in | 30.1 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Headlights | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| HID Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Third Row Seat | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Volvo XC90?
The biggest change is the revised trim structure. Volvo adds Premier Plus and Platinum versions above both the 3.2 and 3.2 R-Design, while most of the XC90 otherwise carries over.
Does the 2012 Volvo XC90 have a V8?
No. The V8 model is dropped for 2012, so the lineup uses a 240-horsepower 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Is the 2012 Volvo XC90 a redesign?
No. The 2012 XC90 is a mild, late-cycle update rather than a redesign. It keeps the first-generation body, cabin layout and main mechanical setup.
What changed on the 2012 XC90 R-Design?
The 2012 XC90 R-Design gains standard Bluetooth audio streaming, 20-inch Cratus wheels and active dual xenon headlights. The wheels and headlights had previously been package equipment, and Premier Plus and Platinum versions join the R-Design range.
Is the 2012 Volvo XC90 meaningfully different from the 2011 model?
Only modestly. The 2012 model is most notable for its new Premier Plus and Platinum trim structure, standard Bluetooth audio streaming, added standard equipment on the R-Design and the departure of the V8.