Volvo has announced their 2026 model year updates. For the most part, they’re modest changes, mainly to the on-board technology. What distinguishes Volvo’s otherwise restrained model year update, though, is the fact that it doesn’t just apply to new Volvos, but old ones, too. So if you purchased a Volvo as far back as 2020, you may find yourself with some updates of your own, and completely free of charge.
Fresh Infotainment For Volvos New And Old
Volvo has already been rolling out its latest infotainment system called Volvo Car UX in a few models. It’s already found in the EX90, EX30, and even the rather old XC90. That system will be coming to the entire Volvo line-up this year. We’ve tried the Android-derived system in the XC90, and were impressed with the simple layout and quick responses. So that’s good news for new Volvo buyers, but it’s good news for existing or even used Volvo buyers. The new infotainment system will be available on all Volvos with Google built-in, with the earliest ones being on offer in 2020. It will be a free update that will be offered later this year, and Volvo says that about 2.5 million customers will be able to get it.
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New Hardware Only For New Volvos
Unfortunately, Volvo can’t just give out new computer hardware for free over the airwaves for obvious reasons. But if you’re getting a 2026 Volvo, you’ll be able to benefit from upgraded chips. Already in the EX90 and EX30, Volvo is moving to a new infotainment computer system called Snapdragon Cockpit Platform from Qualcomm. Qualcomm also makes processors for smartphones, including Samsung’s flagship phones. So it makes some sense to use them for an Android-based infotainment system. Volvo claims the new hardware is twice as fast as the outgoing system. The new hardware will be appearing on all 2026 Volvo models as they launch.
Volvo also has a couple other small changes for 2026. All models will be getting adaptive cruise control as standard. The XC40 will be getting a Black Edition package as an available option, which naturally adds black exterior trim. Two new exterior colors are also available in the Volvo line-up, including Forest Lake, a green metallic, and Aurora Silver, which, you can probably guess is a metallic silver color. Timing and pricing for 2026 models hasn’t been announced, but expect them to come soon.
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