The updates are subtle, to say the least, and it would take a real Volvo aficionado to distinguish the 'new' XC90 from its predecessor.

Externally, there are some subtle cosmetic tweaks to the bumper/spoiler assembly, along with some minor fiddles to the tail-lights and rear bumper. The interior has also come in for some attention in order to "elevate the sensation of luxurious passenger-car comfort," according to Volvo's blurb.

The updates are designed to sustain interest in the full-size all-terrainer, particularly as it now must stave off the challenge of a new-generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class and a revamped BMW X5 that's expected next year.

"We have listened keenly to our customers and refined the cars to boost our competitiveness on both sides of the Atlantic. We already have a winning concept, so the aim was fine-tuning rather than making major changes," said Volvo boss Fredrik Arp.

Volvo has developed three new engines for the XC90 (and other models) over the past year, and these should help bolster demand for the vehicle. A Yamaha-developed 4.4-litre V8 was introduced last year in US models (we'll see it here eventually), and the Swedes recently pulled the wraps off a new 3.2-litre in-line six and an upgraded D5 five-cylinder turbo-diesel.

Other surprise-and-delight features of the updated XC90 will include Active Bi-Xenon Light -- tracking headlight beams that follow the curvature of the road. The Volvo XC90 is also equipped with BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) and a Park Assist Camera to take the guesswork out of backing into those tight spots.

Although a strong seller in the US (which accounts for 50 per cent of its global volume), the XC90 has fared moderately well in Australia -- it notched up 1365 sales last year, placing it third in the luxury SUV segment behind the BMW X5 (3225 sales) and Lexus RX330 (2563).