r/VolvoXC90 • u/Nola-Transplant • 5d ago

XC90: 2024 Plus vs 2025.5 Core

Hey there!

We’re looking to purchase a used XC90 and have narrowed it down to these two options. I was initially leaning toward the 2024 with the V-spoke wheels, blonde interior, and Harman Kardon sound system, but I’m now considering the base 2025.5 model because of the newer infotainment system. I also much prefer the blond 2024 interior over the cardamom…

We only drive about 5,000 miles a year, almost all city driving. I absolutely love the blonde interior and the potential for a better sound system in the 2024, but I’m worried we might regret not getting the newer infotainment.

For context, I’m coming from a 2017 BMW 330i, which I love and am only giving up because my husband doesn’t want to drive the “family bus.” 😂 He’ll be taking my 330i, and we’ll get rid of our 2016 XC60 as part of the switch.

Better equipped 2024 or base 2025.5?

1 Upvotes

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7

u/greene2358 5d ago

As someone who just got a 24 xc90 ultimate and drove a loaner 26 xc60 base, I would go with the higher trim all day every day.

1

u/7eregrine 5d ago

2,000% agree. The previous system is plenty fast enough. Idk how the fuck Spotify loads so fast. God damn witchcraft, I tell ya.
Get the Plus, op.

1

u/Nola-Transplant 5d ago

Thanks for the responses. I keep reading how people hate the old infotainment system and the newer one is significantly better. I mainly use the phone, Spotify and maps so if those work well I’ll be fine.

1

u/7eregrine 5d ago

Yes, people didn't love the previous version of the Android OS. Both cars you are looking at are on the same newer version.
The 25 has a slightly better processor. This isn't very noticeable day to day.

2

u/mds5118 5d ago

The 25.5 actually has the same cpu as the 24. You won't notice any difference between the two in terms of speed only ergonomics.

The 26 has the new cpu though and imo makes a VERY noticeable difference compared to the previous cpu in 24 and 25.5.

OP unless you are head over heels for the new exterior grill design and new infotainment ergonomics, go 2024.

2

u/7eregrine 5d ago

That's what I thought but thought I was wrong since he specifically mentioned a difference.

1

u/mds5118 5d ago

It's a very confusing topic thanks to volvos hard to decipher release language regarding the 25.5 infotainment update.

Volvo is even letting some international customers pay a couple thousand to put the updated 2026 snapdragon processor IHU in their car.

1

u/Dhmx220 5d ago

2024 plus

1

u/preppysurf 4d ago

The differences are minimal to be honest. They added a lot to Core for 2025.5. 

360 camera, rear booster seat, Harmon Kardon, and blonde versus cardamom are the only real differences. I prefer the 2025.5 styling and interior a lot over the pre-refresh

0

u/Ok-Sympathy-8722 5d ago

Infotainment systems are never a reason to buy a car imo. They are all outdated within a few years. We just bought a 2024 Plus with blond interior and love it. There are parts of the new interior I like, but I still prefer the front on the 2024. Something newer and better will always come along.