In January of this year, Volvo unveiled photos of its revamped S90 executive sedan. We didn’t yet know much about it, but it didn’t take more than a glance to see that the all-new sedan drips with refinement and class. Thor’s Hammer LED headlights surround an upright grille with a redesigned logo, while the elongated, coupe-like hood gives way to a gently sloping roof reminiscent of Volvo’s iconic P1800 shape. It is the sexiest car the Swedish company has released in some time.
Now, thankfully, we know more. Powered by a 2-liter turbocharged and supercharged engine, the 2017 S90 manages to be powerfully sporty in equal measure to its elegance. North American customers have three model options: the T5, a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder that hums at 250 horsepower, available for a little under $47,000; the T6, which is a supercharged and turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder with 316 horsepower, starting at $52,950; and last but definitely not least, the top-shelf T8 Twin Engine, a supercharged and turbocharged 2-liter inline-4 working with an electric drive system, which will be available sometime next year. Transmission for all three vehicles is an eight-speed automatic.
The S90’s jaguar-like grace is matched by its luxurious interiors, where drivers will find ample soft leather, natural grain wood, and brushed aluminum. The comfortable Nappa leather seats conform to a natural body shape, with enhanced support and stylish contrast stitching. The roomy cabin is “inspired by the openness and calm of a Scandinavian home,” and comes available in light or dark hues, with CleanZone air filtration technology. There’s a sharp 9.5-inch central infotainment screen powered by Sensus and controlled via smartphone-like swipe and touch movements.
Volvo, of course, has a reputation for safety as well as style, and the S90 spares no expense on that front. Safety features include semi-autonomous Pilot Assist to aid with steering, acceleration, and deceleration, Collision Avoidance by City Safety, Run-Offroad Mitigation and Protection that gently nudges the car back into its lane when drifting, Park Assist with a 360-degree camera, and Large Animal Detection technology.
The Volvo S90 certainly holds its own in its class, which includes illustrious sedans like the BMW 5 series, the Audi A6, and the Mercedes E-Class. It’s worth a test drive, but beware: You might find yourself falling in love.
