By Jonathan Crouch

Introduction

Volvo has never really cracked the full-sized executive sector and this S90 model never did so either, but it had its charms, especially in the Recharge T8 Plug-in hybrid AWD form that S90 customers had to have from 2020 onwards. Based on the brand's well established SPA platform architecture and 2.0-litre drivetrain format, this electrified Swedish saloon aims to tempt luxury saloon customers with what Volvo describes as 'elegant and functional' appeal.

Models

4dr Saloon (2.0 petrol PHEV)

History

One thing's pretty certain. If you're a typical business buyer looking at a full-sized Executive saloon, you probably won't be considering this one, Volvo's S90. Sales figures suggest that models like the Mercedes E-Class, the BMW 5 Series and the Audi A6 are more likely to be on your radar. But sales figures are rarely an accurate indication of excellence. And Volvo says that's what's been delivered here. Other brands have tried and failed to upset German dominance in this sector, Volvo being one of them. The brand certainly wasn't much of a segment player back in the Nineties, when it campaigned with the old 900 Series, an archetypal old fashioned big Volvo, renamed 'S90' in its saloon form just prior to the end of production in 1998. Two subsequent generations of that car's S80 saloon replacement (launched respectively in 1998 and 2006) didn't do much better, but hopes were higher when the 'S90' badge was revived and this current design first appeared in the showrooms in 2016. This, after all, was a Volvo of the new Chinese-owned era, based around the 'SPA' 'Scalable Product Architecture' modular underpinnings the brand these days uses to underpin all its designs, including the 'V90'-badged estate version of this car. That station wagon model's sold steadily, but this saloon derivative has proved to be a rare sight on our roads. So much so that in 2020, Volvo slashed the S90 range back to just one variant, the Recharge T8 Plug-in hybrid AWD version we're going to test here. It sold until the end of 2022 and wasn't replaced.

What You Get

This S90 was the most credible full-sized executive saloon Volvo had brought us to date. The design language here was apparently taken from contemporary Scandinavian culture and from most angles, the resulting shape looks elegant and sophisticated. With its short overhangs, long wheelbase and low roofline, there's an air of confidence assurance here, yet also a look that's uniquely Swedish. Step inside an S90 and it'll all be pretty familiar if you're conversant with Volvo's modern design language, though a difference over the brand's SUVs lies with smart air blades that stand vertically on each side of the Sensus centre monitor user interface. The tablet-like 9-inch centre touch screen plays a key role in creating an interior that feels modern, spacious and uncluttered. Changes made to this 2020-onwards-era model were minor - restricted to detail stuff like the availability of an exclusive tailored wool blend for the upholstery for those not wanting the normal leather. You'll glimpse more hi-tech screen technology through the three-spoke multi-function steering wheel, where the binnacle houses a 12.3-inch 'Progressive Driver Display' screen, which can show almost full-width navigation mapping as one of its two customisation options. There's also a head-up display. Given the extra body length that this S90 enjoys over some of its rivals, you'd expect it to feel pretty spacious in the back and, by and large it is, a clever design of front seatback further freeing up leg and knee room for rear seat folk. As is unfortunately quite common on cars in this class, you'll struggle to accommodate three adults over longer distances because of this very prominent centre transmission tunnel. Two folk though, should be very comfortable indeed, and they're provided with a neatly designed central armrest incorporating pop-out twin cup holders. The power-operated boot lid rises to reveal the welcome news that trunk space isn't as restricted by the Plug-in hybrid system's battery as it usually is with PHEVs. The conventionally-engined S90 we tested back in 2016 had 500-litres of capacity; this car has 461-litres. There's a ski hatch so that you can push longer items into the cabin. And if you need more space, there's a power-folding rear seat backrest.

What You Pay

Please contact us for an exact up-to-date valuation.

What to Look For

There aren't many major issues here, other than a few electrical and software issues; go thoroughly over all the powered and infotainment functions of the car you're looking at. Otherwise, it's just the usual things; look out for stone chips and alloy wheel scratches. And insist on a fully stamped-up service history.

Replacement Parts

(approx based on a 2021 Volvo S90 Recharge T8 Plug-in Hybrid AWD ex VAT) An oil filter is in the £10-22 bracket. A pollen filter is in the £10-£36 bracket. A wiper blade set will cost you from in the £30-£56 bracket. Front brake pads sit in the £50-£86 bracket; rears will sit in the £37-£63 bracket. Front brake discs sit in the £60-£123 bracket; a pair of rear discs are about £91-£111. An air filter is in the £20-£33 bracket.

On the Road

This S90 uses Volvo's more powerful 'T8' plug-in hybrid powertrain with 455hp on tap. You're certainly never really prompted to exercise all that power, but if you ever did, you'd find that 62mph could be dispatched in just 4.7 seconds on the way to the governed 112mph maximum that by 2021, Volvos all shared. Once you've discovered where the drive modes reside (they're buried away in a 'Driving' menu on the centre screen), you'll find that ultimate speed is delivered by a 'Power' mode that sees both petrol and electric units permanently working together. Alternatively, there are three other drive choices: a 'Hybrid' setting that sees the two power sources cutting in and out as necessary: a 'Constant AWD' mode that gives you permanent 4x4 traction: and a 'Pure' setting that only uses the battery power and can take you up to 54.7 miles (way more than most people's daily commuting distance) on a single charge. That the handling doesn't serve up anything that encourages much driving involvement has a lot to do with the rather vague steering. But if you wanted a sports saloon, you wouldn't have chosen an S90 anyway, so it's best instead to settle back and enjoy the super-smooth 8-speed auto transmission and this Volvo's unruffled poise and exemplary refinement. There's no adaptive damping system - and that's disappointing because you'd ideally want it in this car: the extra weight of the plug-in hybrid powertrain robbed the S90 of the supple suspension feel we remember it delivered in the un-electrified versions available at the original launch back in 2017. The centre screen also provides some 'Battery Usage' options that allow you to 'Hold' charge until urban driving you might need to undertake later in your trip; or 'Charge' the battery from the engine while you're driving. As for the WLTP fuel and CO2 stats, well the official figures are up to 104.6mpg and between 19 and 61g/km. As with any plug-in hybrid, there's little point in purchase unless you establish a regular recharging regime for the battery pack, which in this case is 11.6kWh in size. A garage wallbox can charge this car on 16-amp power in about two and a half hours. If you're out and about and find a 10-amp public charging point, the charging time will be slightly longer - three and a half hours - while connecting up to a normal domestic three-pin 6-amp supply will take six hours.

Overall

Here's a Volvo rarer than a Ferrari - but it doesn't deserve to be. In this S90, the brand offered a properly credible and rather charismatic flagship saloon that on the used market will complement the discernment of the relatively few buyers likely to choose it. This car's reach will be severely curtailed by the restriction of plug-in power. But if that's what you wanted anyway from a saloon in this segment from the 2020-2022 period and your priorities lie with comfort rather than sportiness, then it's worth a look. Inside, there's properly distinctive luxury, rather than merely the kind of upgrade from a smaller, cheaper model that rivals offer. Sure, not everyone will like it. But then there aren't many S90s from this period about anyway. Those who do choose this car can justify their decision not only on the basis of wanting something different but also through a range of more foundational attributes. Things like impressive levels of standard equipment, class-leading safety and a very high-end quality cabin feel. All combined with a rather unique blend of performance and efficiency. It's all quite unexpected. From a car that may well make you rather like the unexpected.

Body Glass

Front and rear power windows

Front intermittent wipers

Laminated rear and side windows

Rain sensor with automatic windscreen wiper activation

Dark tinted windows for rear side windows and rear screen

Brakes

Hill start assist

Vehicle deceleration control with Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Brake Distribution and Emergency Brake Assist

Stability and Traction Control with Spin control, Engine Drag Control and Corner Traction Control

Power parking brake with auto hold function

Carpets/Rugs

Charcoal carpets and floor mats

Chassis/Suspension

Dynamic chassis

Electric rear axle drive

Communication

Volvo on call app

E-call

Bluetooth handsfree system

Apple carplay (wired)

Driver Aids

Speed sensitive steering

Front and rear park assist

Speed limiter

Adjustable steering wheel force

Oncoming Lane Mitigation

Drive mode settings

Driver alert control with lane keeping aid

Driver assistance (pilot assist and adaptive cruise control)

Driver awareness - Blind spot system + steer assist, cross traffic alert with autobrake, rear collision warning and mitigation

360 degree surround view parking camera with side proximity sensors

Driver Convenience

Handsfree bootlid opening/closing

Power operated tailgate/boot lid

Driver Information

Service interval indicator

9" centre console touch screen

12.3" Progressive Driver Display

Google automotive services - Enabled entertainment apps, navigation with google maps, voice recognition with google assistant

Driving Mirrors

Auto dimming interior + exterior mirrors

Colour coordinated auto folding and heated power door mirrors

High gloss black door mirrors and window surround

Embellishment Trims

Tailored Instrument Panel and Door Tops with Contrast Stitching

Engine

Lithium-Ion Battery 18.8kWh

Entertainment

DAB Radio (Digital Audio Broadcasting)

Steering wheel remote infotainment controls

Low speed exterior sound speaker

Premium Sound by Bowers and Wilkins, dirac live, dolby pro logic II surround sound, 18 speakers/1400W output and fresh air subwoofer

Exterior Body Features

Roof antenna

Chrome window surround

Visible VIN plate

Power tilt/slide sunroof

High gloss black mesh front grille and surround

Rear side wing doors

High gloss black front and rear bumper decoratives

Rear boot

Exterior Lights

Home safe and approach lighting

Puddle lights

Active bending headlights with adaptive shadow technology

Adaptive brake lights with high level LED brake lights

Automatic headlight levelling system

Automatic LED Headlights + Active high beam incorporating daytime running lights

Headlight cleaning system

Rear LED lights with sequential indicators

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

B Pillar ventilation

2 zone electronic climate control with Clean zone air quality system + pollen filter

Air purifier particulate matter (PM) filter

Interior Features

Height/reach adjustable steering column

Heated steering wheel

Rear armrest with cupholder

A-pillar parking ticket holder

Bright metal luggage compartment threshold

Glovebox compartment with illumination

Front/rear door pockets and front cupholder illumination

Integrated sun curtains in rear doors

Centre console cupholder and storage

Powered integrated rear window sunblind

3 Spoke tailored steering wheel with chrome trim

Front 12V socket tunnel console and cargo area

Illuminated recharge aluminium tread plates

Interior Lights

Illuminated luggage compartment

Ambient door and instrument panel lighting

Front and rear reading lights and centre armrest Storage Illumination

Front and rear footwell and side step illumination

Boot lid/tailgate illumination

Safety

SIPS (Side Impact Protection System)

WHIPS whiplash protection system - front

Warning triangle and first aid kit

Dual stage driver/passenger airbags

Tyre pressure monitoring system

Drivers knee airbag

3x3 point rear seatbelts

Power child locks on rear doors

Active bonnet

Run off Road Protection

Run off Road Mitigation

IC (Inflatable Curtains) - Full Length

Passenger airbag cut-off switch

Seatbelt reminder and pretensioners for all seats

Front seats SIPS airbags

Slippery road and hazard light alert

City safety with steering support with Pedestrian + cyclist + front collision warning with full auto brake and rear auto brake

Seats

Heated front seats

Front headrests

Extended front seat cushions

3 seat bench in 2nd row

Versatile split folding rear seat - 60/40

Multi directional lumbar support

Power passenger seat with memory

ISOFIX attachment on outer rear seats

Power folding rear headrests

Heated rear seats outer positions

Power driver seat with memory for seat and exterior mirrors

Single front passenger seat

Driver and front passenger seat power height adjustment

Security

Locking wheel nuts

Anti-theft alarm including immobiliser/volume sensor + level sensor

Private locking for boot area

Keyless drive includes keyless entry and keyless start

Care key with user defined top speed

2x Key integrated remote control central locking + fuel flap with deadlocking system and auto open/close power windows

Transmission

8 speed automatic transmission with start/stop + manual change functions

Vanity Mirrors

Illuminated vanity mirrors + ticket holder

Vehicle Charging

Recharging port located in nearside front wing

3.7 kW monophase on board charger

7m 10amp charge cable with 3 pin plug and 7m 1 phase 16amp type 2/mode 3 charge cable

11 kW AC onboard charger

Wheels - Alloy

19'' 8 spoke diamond cut black alloy wheels

Wheels - Spare

Tyre sealant kit and compressor

Electric Vehicle Data

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Charge Time (Mins): 420

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Power Supply - kW: 2.3

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Percentage Change: 0-100

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Charge Time (Mins): 300

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Power Supply - kW: 3.7

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Percentage Change: 0-100

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Charge Time (Mins): 180

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Power Supply - kW: 11

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Percentage Change: 0-100

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Charge Time (Mins): N

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Power Supply - kW: N

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Percentage Change: N

Coupler/Connector Type: Type 2

Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Years: 8

Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Mileage: 100000

Battery Capacity in kWh: 18.8

Battery Leased: 0

Battery Type: Lithium-ion

WLTP - Equivalent AER (km) - Comb: 88

WLTP - Equivalent AER (km) - Comb - TEL: 89

WLTP - Equivalent AER (km) - Comb - TEH: 74

WLTP - EC AC Weighted (kWh/100km) - Comb - TEL: 17.3

WLTP - EC AC Weighted (kWh/100km) - Comb - TEH: 19.9

WLTP - EC AC Weighted (miles/kWh) - Comb - TEH: 3.1

WLTP - EC AC Weighted (miles/kWh) - Comb - TEL: 3.6

WLTP - Equivalent AER (miles) - Comb: 54.7

WLTP - Equivalent AER (miles) - Comb - TEH: 46

WLTP - Equivalent AER (miles) - Comb - TEL: 55.3

Battery Capacity % guaranteed under warranty: N

Charging Port Location: Left Side Front

Usable Battery Capacity: 14.7

Maximum Charging Rate - kW: 11

Emissions - ICE

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

HC+NOx: N

Particles: N

Emissions - PHEV

WLTP - CO2 Weighted (g/km) - Comb: 18

WLTP - CO2 Weighted (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 17

WLTP - CO2 Weighted (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 25

Engine and Drive Train

CC: 1969

Cylinders: 4

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Number of Valves: 16

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: TURBO DIRECT INJECTION

Catalytic Convertor: No

Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE

Transmission: SEMI-AUTO

Gears: 8 SPEED

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

Fuel Consumption - PHEV

WLTP - FC Weighted (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 0.8

WLTP - FC Weighted (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 1.1

WLTP - FC Weighted (mpg) - Comb - TEL: 352.6

WLTP - FC Weighted (mpg) - Comb - TEH: 256.5

General

Coin Series: Ultimate Dark

Coin Description: T8 [455] Recharge PHEV

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 60000

Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years: 3

Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 8

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Based On ID: N

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 43E

Service Interval Mileage: 18000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 12

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: N

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: N

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: N

NCAP Safety Assist %: N

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: N

Badge Power: 455

Badge Engine CC: 2.0

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Generation Mark: 1

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Performance

0 to 62 mph (secs): 4.7

Top Speed: 112

Engine Power - BHP: 455

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 335

Engine Power - RPM: 6000

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 295

Engine Torque - NM: 400

Engine Torque - RPM: 3000

Engine Torque - MKG: 40.8

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 255/40 R19

Tyre Size Rear: 255/40 R19

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Wheel Type: 19" ALLOY

Wheel Style: 8 SPOKE

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: 0

Vehicle Dimensions

Length: 4969

Width: 1895

Wheelbase: 2941

Width (including mirrors): 2019

Height: 1441

Height (including roof rails): N

Weight and Capacities

Minimum Kerbweight: 2040

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2570

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 60

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 2100

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Max. Loading Weight: 530

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 461

No. of Seats: 5

Max. Roof Load: 100

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): N

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 11.8

Driver Information

Head up display in windscreen includes road sign information, distance alert, set speed and navigation

Exterior Body Features

Metallic paint

Interior Features

Nappa soft leather perforated and ventilated upholstery with power side support

Contour sports seats with tailored wool blend upholstery

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Denim blue

Metallic - Onyx black

Metallic - Platinum grey

Metallic - Silver Dawn

Metallic - Bright Dusk

Metallic - Crystal white

Paint - Solid

Solid - Vapour grey

Trim - Cloth

Countour sports seats with tailored wool blend - Midnight zinc + door panel inserts + charcoal headlining + Grey ash inlay + Orrefors crystal gearknob

Trim - Leather

Leather - Charcoal + Chequered aluminium inlays + blond/charcoal interior

Leather - Blond + grey ash inlays + blond/charcoal leather steering wheel and interior

Nappa soft leather ventilated - Charcoal + power side support + grey ash inlay + orrefors crystal gear knob + blond/charcoal interior