2021 Volvo S90

History/Overview

Like most automakers, Volvo’s focus is on crossovers and SUVs, but they haven’t abandoned the traditional luxury car market just yet. For now, the brand’s flagship sedan is the full-size S90. Until last year, there was a closely related V90 wagon, but Volvo cut it from the lineup for 2021.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

The 2021 Volvo S90 gets a subtle styling update that includes a new front bumper and wheel designs.

Available Trims

Volvo offers the S90 in a single Inscription trim level. Your only choice is between the standard T6 powertrain – a 2.0L turbo- and supercharged four-cylinder engine with AWD and an eight-speed transmission – or the T8 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) setup, which pairs the same engine with an electric motor and plug-in charging for up to 34 km of battery-powered driving.

Standard Features

The S90’s standard exterior features include 19-inch wheels, puddle lights, gloss black/chrome grille, fog lights, headlight washers, passive keyless entry with hands-free trunk, and power-folding/auto-dimming side mirrors.

Inside, there’s four-zone automatic A/C, a panoramic sunroof, rear-door sunshades, a power rear-window sunshade, heated/ventilated front seats with power adjustments/memory/lumbar, wireless smartphone charging, ash wood interior trim, and Nappa leather upholstery.

Among the S90’s tech and driver assist features are a 12-inch digital gauge cluster, adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, navigation, lane keeping aid, oncoming lane mitigation, road sign information, blind spot monitoring with steer assist/cross traffic alert, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and an integrated garage door remote.

Key Options

A climate package adds a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and heated windshield washer nozzles.

The advanced package brings a head-up display, 360-degree camera views, and a fully powered trunk.

Stand-alone extras include an active chassis with rear air suspension, and a Bowers & Wilkins stereo system.

Fuel Economy

Volvo’s fuel consumption estimates for the S90 T6 are 11.3/7.5 L/100 km (city/highway). The PHEV T8 powertrain is rated for 8.3/7.5 L/100 km as a gas-electric hybrid, and 3.7 Le/100 km in battery mode.

Competition

The Volvo S90 lines up against mid-range sedans from other luxury automakers, including the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Acura’s TLX, and the Jaguar XF.