The Volvo S90: A Refined Ride for Discerning Drivers (2024 Model Year)
In the ever-crowded luxury sedan market, the Volvo S90 carves out a distinct niche. Renowned for its focus on safety, comfort, and sophisticated Scandinavian design, the S90 boasts a range of powerful and versatile engines to match its elegant looks. But how does the 2024 S90 fare against its competitors? Buckle up as we delve into a detailed review to see if this Swedish masterpiece remains a contender in the luxury sedan arena.
Timeless Elegance with a Modern Edge
The S90's design language, while not brand new, ensures it continues to look fresh and contemporary. Clean lines, the signature Thor's Hammer headlights, and a commanding stance exude a timeless elegance that transcends trends. Stepping inside, the cabin is a masterclass in minimalist luxury. High-quality materials like Nappa leather and genuine wood trim create a warm and inviting ambience. The large panoramic sunroof adds to the airy feel, while the vertically oriented touchscreen infotainment system dominates the center console.
Spacious Comfort (Mostly)
The S90 excels in providing a comfortable and spacious environment for most passengers. The first two rows offer ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room, making even long journeys a breeze for taller adults. The heated and ventilated seats with massage functionality are a welcome addition on extended drives. However, it's important to note that the third-row seating, while usable in a pinch, is best suited for children or smaller adults due to limited legroom.
Engineered for Every Need
Volvo offers two distinct powertrain options for the 2024 S90, catering to a variety of driving preferences:
B6 Mild Hybrid: This 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system delivers a healthy 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It provides a good balance of fuel efficiency and everyday performance, making it a great choice for most drivers.
Recharge Plug-in Hybrid: For those who prioritize eco-friendliness and cutting-edge technology, the S90 Recharge is a compelling option. This powertrain combines a turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 400 horsepower and a staggering 472 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, the S90 Recharge boasts an impressive electric-only range of up to 38 miles, allowing you to handle your daily commute or errands without using a drop of gasoline.
Safety First, As Always
Volvo's reputation for safety is well-deserved, and the S90 is no exception. It boasts a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including:
Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system
City Safety with automatic emergency braking for forward collisions and pedestrian detection
These features, along with a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), make the S90 a fortress on wheels, ideal for families who prioritize passenger protection.
Technology with Room for Improvement
While the S90's interior boasts a clean and sophisticated design, the infotainment system feels a touch outdated compared to some rivals. The vertically oriented touchscreen can be cumbersome to use at times, and the graphics aren't quite as sharp as some of the newer systems on the market. However, the system offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a built-in navigation system, ensuring you stay connected and informed on the road.
The Verdict: A Luxurious and Safe Sedan That Delivers
Despite being around for a few years, the 2024 Volvo S90 remains a compelling option in the luxury sedan segment. It offers a winning combination of elegant design, a spacious and comfortable interior (for most passengers), a range of powerful and fuel-efficient engines, and top-notch safety features. While the infotainment system could be improved, the overall package makes the S90 a strong contender for those seeking a luxurious and practical sedan with a focus on safety and comfort.
Here's a quick recap of the S90's pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros:
Elegant and timeless design
Luxurious and comfortable interior (mostly spacious)
Powerful and fuel-efficient engine options, including a plug-in hybrid
Top-notch safety features
Comfortable ride quality
Cons:
Cramped third-row seating
Infotainment system feels dated compared to rivals
Beyond the Basics: A Closer Look at the 2024 Volvo S90
Our review has covered the core aspects of the 2024 Volvo S90, but let's delve a little deeper to explore some of the finer details that might influence your decision.
Trim Levels and Customization
The S90 comes in two distinct trim levels:
B6 Momentum: This base trim offers all the essential features you'd expect in a luxury sedan, including a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, a premium sound system, and the aforementioned driver-assistance technologies.
Recharge Inscription: Moving up to the Inscription trim adds a touch of opulence with upgraded Nappa leather upholstery, a more powerful sound system, unique exterior design elements, and access to the plug-in hybrid powertrain.
While each trim level offers a comprehensive set of features, Volvo also provides a decent range of options for further customization. You can personalize your S90 with a variety of paint colors, wheel styles, and interior trim packages to create a car that reflects your individual style.
Focus on Comfort: The Driving Experience
The S90 prioritizes a comfortable and refined driving experience. The well-tuned suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, making for a smooth and serene ride. The cabin is well-insulated, minimizing road noise and engine sounds, creating a peaceful environment for all passengers. When it comes to handling, the S90 isn't the most agile sedan on the market. Its size and weight become apparent when taking corners. However, the steering is responsive and precise, making it easy to maneuver in everyday driving situations.
Fuel Efficiency: Finding the Right Balance
The fuel efficiency of the S90 depends on the engine you choose. The B6 mild hybrid offers a combined fuel economy of up to 28 mpg, making it a decent option for those who prioritize fuel efficiency. Opting for the Recharge plug-in hybrid boasts a significant advantage. With an EPA-estimated combined rating of 75 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when operating in electric mode, the S90 Recharge is a champion for eco-conscious drivers. Additionally, the 38-mile electric-only range allows for emissions-free commuting and errand running, reducing your reliance on gasoline and your environmental impact.
Ownership Considerations
Volvo is known for its excellent reliability ratings, and the S90 is no exception. The car is expected to hold its value well over time, making it a sound investment. Additionally, Volvo offers a competitive warranty package, including a comprehensive 4-year/50,000-mile warranty and a complimentary scheduled maintenance plan for the first 3 years.
However, like most luxury cars, the S90's maintenance costs can be on the higher side compared to some rivals. Parts and service costs can be steeper, so it's recommended to factor in potential maintenance expenses when budgeting for ownership.
The Competition: How Does the S90 Stack Up?
The luxury sedan segment is brimming with strong contenders, and the S90 faces stiff competition. Here's a quick comparison with some of its key rivals:
Audi A6: The A6 offers a more dynamic driving experience and a slightly larger cargo space. However, the base model comes with a less powerful engine, and the infotainment system can be overly complex.
BMW 5 Series: The 5 Series boasts a sportier handling and a more engaging driving experience. However, it falls short on fuel efficiency compared to the S90, especially the Recharge plug-in hybrid.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: The E-Class offers a luxurious interior with a wider range of engine options. However, its starting price is generally higher than the S90, and the infotainment system can be challenging to use.
The Final Word: Still a Strong Contender for Discerning Drivers
The 2024 Volvo S90 might not be the newest kid on the block, but it remains a compelling option for discerning drivers seeking a luxurious and safe sedan. It offers a unique blend of Scandinavian design, exceptional safety features, a comfortable ride, and powerful and versatile engine options, including a fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid. While the infotainment system could be improved, and the third-row seating is best suited for children, the overall package makes the S90 a strong contender for those who prioritize a refined driving experience, cutting-edge technology with a focus on eco-friendliness, and top-notch safety features. Whether your priority is a smooth and comfortable ride, exceptional fuel efficiency, or a combination of both, the Volvo S90 deserves a place on your test drive list.