By Dr V Palanivel 
Volvo S90 when we talk about luxury sedans, names like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi often dominate the conversation. But there’s a silent player that’s been making waves in its own refined, Scandinavian way—the Volvo S90. Understated yet powerful, elegant yet tech-forward, the Volvo S90 could very well be the most underrated luxury car of the year. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this Swedish beauty a true contender in the high-end sedan market.
Elegant Design Meets Scandinavian Sophistication
The first thing you’ll notice about the Volvo S90 is its striking design. With clean lines, a wide stance, and Volvo’s signature “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights, the S90 looks sharp without being flashy. It’s not trying to scream for attention—it earns admiration through poise and presence.
At the rear, the C-shaped LED tail lights and the subtle chrome accents give it a sleek and premium look. The large grille with the iconic Volvo emblem enhances its luxury appeal, signaling its European heritage with confidence.
Luxurious Interiors That Redefine Comfort
Step inside the Volvo S90 and you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of calm and class. The cabin reflects Volvo’s minimalist Scandinavian design ethos with premium materials like Nappa leather, open-pore wood trim, and brushed aluminum accents.
The centerpiece is the 9-inch Sensus touchscreen infotainment system, vertically mounted and offering a tablet-like experience. It controls everything from climate settings to navigation and smartphone integration (yes, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included). The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster further adds a futuristic touch.
Rear passengers are treated to abundant legroom, thanks to the car’s long wheelbase. There’s also a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, ventilated seats, and a premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system that transforms every drive into a concert-like experience.
Engine, Performance & Mileage
In India, the Volvo S90 is offered with a mild-hybrid petrol powertrain. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine is paired with a 48V electric motor, producing a combined output of 250 hp and 350 Nm of torque. It’s mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox and comes with front-wheel drive.
Acceleration is smooth and refined, and while it’s not the fastest in the segment, it delivers a composed and confident ride. Volvo focuses more on comfort and ride quality, which is evident in the way the S90 handles city traffic and highway cruising.
Top Speed: Approx. 180 km/h (electronically limited, in line with Volvo’s safety-first policy)
0-100 km/h: Around 6.9 seconds
Mileage: Claimed fuel efficiency is about 14-15 km/l, which is decent for a car of this class and size.
Advanced Safety & Tech Features
Volvo has long been a leader in automotive safety, and the S90 continues this tradition with a host of advanced safety features:
Pilot Assist (semi-autonomous driving)
Adaptive Cruise Control
Lane Keeping Aid
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)
Rear Collision Warning
Park Assist Pilot
360-degree surround camera
In essence, the S90 is packed with intelligent systems that actively work to prevent accidents and keep all passengers safe.
Price in India and Launch Date
The Volvo S90 is currently available in India in a single fully-loaded variant:
Volvo S90 B5 Inscription Mild-Hybrid Petrol – ₹68.25 lakh (ex-showroom, India)
The latest iteration of the S90 was launched in India in September 2021, with subtle updates and the switch to a mild-hybrid system to comply with stricter emission norms. As of now, there are no confirmed updates for a 2025 model, but Volvo India continues to sell the existing variant.
The Volvo S90 might not be as common on Indian roads as its German counterparts, but that’s part of its charm. It offers a refreshing alternative—minimalist yet luxurious, safe yet stylish, and packed with features without being overbearing.
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