ROCKLEIGH, NJ – Volvo has refreshed the exterior and added more standard features for the 2013-MY edition of its XC90. One new change that can reduce PM costs on the vehicle is the addition of full synthetic motor oil as standard on the XC90. This increases the oil change service interval to 10,000 miles, 2,500 more miles from the previous 7,500 mile recommendation. In addition, Volvo stated that full synthetic motor oil will be standard on all 2013-MY Volvo models.

The vehicle’s powertrain is a naturally aspirated 3.2L in-line six-cylinder engine. It can deliver 240 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque. It also features Variable Cam Timing (VCT) and Cam Profile Switching (CPS) for efficiency. The 2013-MY XC90 comes with a six-speed automatic transmission as standard. All-wheel drive with Instant Traction is optional.

For the different trim levels available on the vehicle, a buyer can select the base XC90 3.2 and R-Design or move to the Premier Plus and Platinum trim levels for each model. The Platinum trim level includes a navigation system with real time traffic, remote control, and map care plus a rear park assist camera. It also includes Volvo’s Premium Sound System. The Climate Package includes heated front seats and an Interior Air Quality System (IAQS).

When it comes to safety, the refreshed XC90 comes with a number of safety features. Roll Stability Control, Dynamic Stability and Traction Control, and Side Impact Protection System with side airbags and Inflatable Curtains for all three rows, are standard. A Blind Spot Information System is a standalone option.

Although Volvo hasn’t yet released photos of the new vehicle, the automaker said the new color-coordinated exterior gives the SUV a sleeker, lower-to-the-ground look. Volvo noted new body color front and rear bumpers, sill moldings, and wheel arches as design elements. All XC90s gain standard rain sensor windshield wipers and headlight washers for MY-2013. Twilight Bronze metallic and Flaminco Red metallic are new color choices.

The XC90 has standard seating for seven passengers. In the cabin, the XC90 adds luxury accents, with sanded silver aluminum inlays, white instrumentation lighting and a leather strap on the tailgate. The vehicle’s Premier Plus and Platinum trim levels receive standard Sovereign hide soft leather seating surfaces, walnut wood inlays and gearshift knob, and Executive floor mats. A walnut wood steering wheel is a new option for both trim levels. A dual screen rear seat entertainment system is optional.

The XC90 R-Design features fully color-coordinated exterior, LED daytime running lights and taillights, and 19-inch Ixion alloy wheels. The R-Design also features a sport-tuned suspension and steering, a unique R-Design grille, leather seating surfaces with embossed R-Design logo on the front seats, an R-Design steering wheel, watch dial instruments, and floor mats.

MSRP for the new vehicle is $39,500 for the 3.2 and $42,300 for the 3.2 R-Design.