Volvo’s Big Software Update For Older Cars Is Finally Rolling Out

The Swedish automaker said over 2.5 million cars made after 2020 will benefit from the new user interface.

Volvo Car UX

Photo by: Volvo

Iulian Dnistran

By: Iulian Dnistran

Feb 17, at 3:54am ET

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Volvo is rolling out a big software update to over 2.5 million cars with a Google-based infotainment system built after 2020.
The update, version 5.0.5, was initially scheduled for release by the end of last year, but it was postponed until the beginning of 2026.
The new software version comes with a redesigned user interface.

Volvo’s big software update for cars made as early as 2020 is finally going live around the world, according to the automaker’s website. The new version, 5.0.5, was released yesterday, and it will start reaching vehicles in about three weeks as an over-the-air software update, but owners who just can’t wait for the new features can book a service visit and have the update installed at the dealership earlier.

The new software will be beamed to Volvo models that have come from the factory with a Google-based infotainment system. Called Volvo Car UX, it brings a redesigned user interface that mirrors the one offered in the company’s latest cars, which also have a bigger central infotainment screen.

Gallery: Volvo Car UX

Volvo Car UX

Source: Volvo

There’s a new home screen that prioritizes the map view and has a persistent button bar for the most used functions, including selecting the driving mode in plug-in hybrid models. The current software version in pre-2025 Volvo PHEVs, 4.2.13, forces drivers to tap three times on the touchscreen to change the driving mode. The new layout means owners will only have to tap two times to go from all-electric mode to something else.

The digital instrument cluster was also redesigned to make the map view just a little bigger, just like in the latest EX30 and EX90 EVs. Besides the changes to the in-car user experience, Volvo has also added some features to its smartphone apps. Now, owners can connect their Volvo ID to their vehicle in the app, and they can invite other users to link their accounts if they share the same vehicle. The Volvo ID account can also be added to a certain vehicle by scanning a QR code on the center display.

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Volvo’s latest software update for pre-2025 Volvo cars with a Google-based infotainment system is based on Android Automotive OS 13.

One big question surrounding this big user interface change is the ability of older cars to offer a smooth experience. New Volvos have a snappier processor, but previous models have a slower digital brain, and many owners have complained about laggy response and crashes.

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