7 Shocking Details About The Volvo XC90 Blacked Out Look (Official Black Edition And DIY Guide)

The "blacked out" aesthetic has completely transformed the luxury SUV landscape, and the Volvo XC90 is no exception. For the 2025 model year, Volvo has officially embraced this trend, introducing a stunning, factory-backed option known as the Black Edition. This highly sought-after package moves the XC90 from its traditional, chrome-accented elegance to a sleek, stealthy, and undeniably aggressive appearance that is turning heads globally.

This comprehensive guide, updated for late 2024 and the 2025 model year, dives deep into everything you need to know about achieving the ultimate blacked-out look for your XC90. Whether you choose the official Black Edition from the factory or opt for a custom 'chrome delete' modification, we cover the specific features, pricing, and the exact steps to transform your premium Swedish SUV into a monochromatic masterpiece.

The Official 2025 Volvo XC90 Black Edition: Specs and Features

The most current and definitive way to get a blacked-out XC90 is through the official Black Edition trim, which Volvo has introduced across several of its core models, including the flagship XC90. This is not just a paint job; it is a comprehensive design package that eliminates nearly all brightwork, creating a true monochromatic statement. The Black Edition is available on the mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid (Recharge) XC90 models.

• The Chilling True Story 5 Key Facts About Richard Evonitz The Serial Killer Who Kidnapped Kara Robinson Chamberlain Xpjje

• Exterior Color: The Black Edition is exclusively offered in the deep, lustrous Onyx Black metallic paint.
• Grille and Emblems: The most significant change is the elimination of the traditional chrome grille frame and the iconic Volvo iron mark logo. Both are finished in a high-gloss black, providing a seamless, intimidating front fascia.
• Window Trim: All window surrounds and roof rails are finished in high-gloss black, replacing the standard silver or chrome trim.
• Exhaust Tips: The integrated exhaust tips are also blacked out, completing the aggressive look from the rear.
• Wheels: The package includes exclusive 21-inch 5-Spoke Black Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels, which are crucial to the overall aesthetic.
• Interior Accents: Inside, the theme continues with black accents, including a charcoal headliner and unique mesh aluminum décor, often paired with ventilated Nappa leather or a premium textile blend.

This factory option provides a level of quality, fit, and finish that is difficult to replicate with aftermarket parts, making it the preferred choice for those seeking a flawless, warranty-backed blacked-out vehicle. The Black Edition is typically an upgrade package on the higher-end trims, such as the Plus or Ultra, meaning the overall price point reflects the premium features of those trims.

Why the Black Edition is a Game-Changer for XC90 Design

The Black Edition is more than just a passing trend; it addresses a long-standing desire among many Volvo enthusiasts for a more dramatic, less "friendly" aesthetic. For years, the XC90 has been praised for its elegant, minimalist design, but the use of chrome often softened its edges.

The blacked-out treatment, known in the custom world as "dechroming" or "chrome delete," fundamentally alters the vehicle's personality. It provides a visual slimming effect, making the large SUV appear lower and wider. The high-gloss black accents create a sharp contrast against the Onyx Black paint, allowing the Thor’s Hammer headlights and vertical grille slats to stand out with greater intensity. This design shift appeals directly to a younger, performance-oriented demographic who appreciate the stealthy look of a "murdered out" vehicle.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

The availability of the Black Edition, particularly on the powerful XC90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid, pairs high-efficiency performance with a high-impact visual presence. This combination of Scandinavian safety, luxury, and aggressive styling is what makes the 2025 Black Edition a true standout in the competitive three-row luxury SUV segment.

The DIY 'Chrome Delete' Guide for Older XC90 Models (2016-2024)

If you own an earlier second-generation XC90 (2016–2024) or simply want a more budget-friendly approach, a custom 'chrome delete' is the perfect way to achieve the blacked-out look. This process involves covering or replacing the factory chrome parts with black alternatives. This is a popular modification that significantly boosts the vehicle's curb appeal and topical authority within the enthusiast community.

Step 1: The Front Grille Transformation

The front grille is the most prominent piece of chrome. For 2016-2019 models, specific "Black-out" grille kits are available from aftermarket performance shops like ViVA Performance. These kits typically include a gloss black grille frame replacement and sometimes a blacked-out Volvo iron mark emblem. For newer models, or a more cost-effective solution, professional vinyl wrapping of the chrome surround is a common choice. This utilizes a high-quality, weather-resistant vinyl film to cover the chrome.

• The Facts Of Life Cast Where Are Eastlands Girls Now 2024 Updates 2tx8p

Step 2: Window Trim and Roof Rails

The chrome window trim is the next major element. This is almost always addressed with a technique known as vinyl "chrome delete." A professional installer will use a long, thin strip of gloss or satin black vinyl to precisely cover the chrome trim around the windows. The roof rails can either be wrapped in vinyl or replaced entirely with genuine black roof rails, which are available as a factory accessory for many model years.

Step 3: Emblems and Badges (Debadging)

The rear "VOLVO" lettering and the model designation badges (e.g., "B5 AWD," "Recharge") are often chrome. You have three main options:

• Plasti Dip: A removable rubberized coating that is easy for DIY application.
• Black Emblems: Purchasing pre-made, factory-style black replacement emblems.
• Debadging: Completely removing the emblems for a cleaner, ultra-minimalist look.

Step 4: Wheel and Caliper Upgrades

Stock silver or machined wheels can spoil the blacked-out look. The most popular options include:

• Powder Coating: Removing your existing wheels and having them professionally coated in a durable satin or gloss black finish.
• Aftermarket Black Wheels: Installing a set of black 20-inch or 22-inch alloy wheels. Look for options with a Black Diamond Cut finish for a premium look, similar to the Black Edition.
• Brake Calipers: Painting the brake calipers in a bright, contrasting color (like red or yellow) or a subtle black/dark grey can add a custom touch that complements the monochromatic theme.

Achieving the perfect blacked-out Volvo XC90, whether through the official 2025 Black Edition or a meticulous custom 'chrome delete,' results in a vehicle that stands apart. It transforms the comfortable, family-focused SUV into a sleek, imposing, and truly unique driving machine that perfectly blends luxury with a contemporary, aggressive edge.