In a market dominated by German luxury sedans, the 2025 Volvo S90 stands as a refined, eco-friendly alternative that often flies under the radar. This Swedish luxury sedan offers a compelling mix of power, sophistication, and innovation, all wrapped in a package that brings understated elegance to the forefront.
While the new BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class may attract more immediate attention, Volvo’s latest S90 T8 model deserves a closer look. Let’s dive into why the 2025 Volvo S90 might be the ideal choice for luxury sedan seekers looking for something distinctively different.
2025 Volvo S90 specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged and supercharged |
| Power Output | 295 horsepower at 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft at 2,100 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic with manual mode |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Fuel Economy (EPA) | 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (combined 26 mpg) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.9 gallons |
| Dimensions | Length: 200.4 inches Width: 74.6 inches Height: 57.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 120.5 inches |
| Curb Weight | 4,296 pounds |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Capacity | 13.5 cubic feet |
| Suspension | Front: Double Wishbone Rear: Multi-Link |
| Brakes | 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS |
| Wheels and Tires | Standard: 19-inch alloy wheels with 255/40R19 tires Optional: 20-inch alloy wheels with 255/35R20 tires |
| Safety Features | Standard suite includes: – Blind Spot Monitor – Lane Departure Warning – Lane Keeping Assist – Cross-Traffic Alert – Auto-Leveling Headlights |
| Interior Features | – Leather seats (optional Nappa leather) – Heated front seats – Dual-zone automatic climate control – 12.3-inch digital driver display – 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with Google integration |
| Audio System | Optional Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system |
| Additional Features | – Panoramic sunroof – Power-adjustable front seats with memory function – 360-degree surround-view camera system |
Power Meets Efficiency: What’s Under the Hood of the 2025 Volvo S90
The 2025 Volvo S90 T8 isn’t just about looks; it’s packing serious power under the hood. Volvo equips this model with a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with plug-in hybrid technology. This hybrid setup brings the total system output to a hefty 455 horsepower, proving that power and environmental responsibility can indeed go hand in hand.
- Engine: 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder with plug-in hybrid
- Power Output: 455 horsepower
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Electric Range: 38 miles
- Fuel Economy (Gasoline Mode): 29 MPG combined
The hybrid system enables the S90 to run for short trips on electric power alone, while the turbocharged engine kicks in for longer journeys or when extra speed is needed. The result? A refined drive that combines powerful acceleration with eco-friendly benefits.
Driving the 2025 Volvo S90: A Seamless Blend of Comfort and Power
During our test drive, the 2025 Volvo S90 T8 delivered a smooth, exhilarating ride. The 8-speed automatic transmission offers responsive shifts that complement the car’s 455 horsepower, bringing impressive acceleration to this luxury sedan. Notably, the S90’s all-wheel-drive system provides stability and grip, distributing its 523 lb-ft of torque evenly for a reliable, confident drive. The 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds places it among the quicker sedans in its class.
The S90 also offers multiple driving modes, allowing you to tailor the experience. “Pure” electric mode, for instance, gives a quiet, zero-emissions drive ideal for city commutes. For those looking to test the limits, “Power” mode combines both the electric motor and turbocharged engine for a spirited drive that doesn’t disappoint.
Exterior Design: Scandinavian Sophistication
From its signature Volvo grille to its Thor’s hammer LED headlights, the 2025 Volvo S90 exudes a timeless elegance that’s distinct from the flashy designs of some luxury competitors. Volvo has even added a few updates to the model’s branding, shifting from “Recharge” to the “T8 All-Wheel Drive Plug-in Hybrid Ultra.”
Key Exterior Features:
- LED Headlights: Full LED with Volvo’s signature Thor’s hammer design
- Grille and Badging: Distinctive Volvo grille and prominent badge
- Wheels: 19-inch and 20-inch alloy options, with the Ultra trim featuring 20-inch alloys as standard
With its sleek, simple lines and balanced proportions, the S90 is a luxury car for those who appreciate refined design. The rear end keeps things classy with Volvo-branded taillights, chrome accents, and no exposed exhaust outlets, which subtly hints at its plug-in hybrid status.
Interior of 2025 Volvo S90
Step inside the 2025 Volvo S90, and you’re met with an elegantly designed cabin that emphasizes comfort and luxury. Volvo is known for its minimalist, high-quality interiors, and the S90 is no exception.
Seating and Materials
The S90 offers a variety of interior color options, from Blonde and Charcoal to Amber and Slate. Each option is paired with either real leather or premium Nappa leather, depending on the trim. The seats, designed to hug the body comfortably, provide 14-way power adjustments and a thigh extension for extra support. With the optional Lounge package, you even get a massage function—a feature typically found in much pricier models.
Attention to Detail
The cabin’s attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the soft-touch door panels to the center console’s piano black finish. Volvo’s commitment to craftsmanship shines through the use of premium materials, like open-pore wood trims and the unique crystal shifter, which adds a touch of Scandinavian artistry.
Technology and Infotainment: Where the S90 Shines and Lags
The S90’s infotainment system is both a strength and a slight drawback. On the positive side, it includes Google apps built right into the 9-inch display, allowing seamless access to navigation and voice commands. However, unlike some rivals, the S90 still requires a USB connection for Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto isn’t supported.
Infotainment and Audio System
For audiophiles, the available Bowers & Wilkins audio system is a treat, featuring 19 speakers and 1400 watts of sound. This audio system delivers remarkable detail and clarity, bringing music to life in a way that few car sound systems can match.
Despite its outstanding sound system, the S90’s infotainment display feels slightly outdated compared to competitors in the luxury sedan segment. While it serves its purpose, the lower screen resolution and basic interface make it less impressive next to the latest BMW or Mercedes offerings.
2025 Volvo S90 0-60 Time
2025 Volvo S90 continues Volvo’s tradition of blending luxury with performance. The T8 plug-in hybrid variant boasts a combined output of 455 horsepower, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.6 seconds.
This marks a significant improvement over earlier models. For instance, the 2017 S90 T6 AWD Inscription achieved a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds. The 2021 S90 Recharge T8 Inscription improved to 4.7 seconds.
Rear Seat Comfort: Executive-Level Space and Features
One of the 2025 Volvo S90’s standout features is its rear-seat experience. With 40 inches of legroom, the S90’s back seat feels spacious and luxurious—perfect for executives and families alike. Additional luxury features include a fully adjustable passenger seat, power-operated sunshades, and climate controls for both rear passengers.
Rear Seat Highlights
- Climate Control: Four-zone climate control with individual settings for each passenger
- Seating Comfort: Heated and ventilated seats, part of the Lounge seating package
- Adjustable Passenger Seat: Rear passengers can adjust the front passenger seat for maximum legroom
These thoughtful details give rear passengers a premium experience that rivals full-size sedans like the Mercedes S-Class, positioning the S90 as a viable choice for those seeking executive-level comfort.
Exterior Dimensions
- Length: 200.4 inches
- Width (without mirrors): 74.0 inches
- Width (with mirrors): 79.5 inches
- Height: 57.2 inches
- Wheelbase: 120.5 inches
- Turning Circle: 38.7 feet
These dimensions provide the S90 with a spacious interior and a commanding presence on the road.
Cargo Space
The S90 offers a trunk capacity of 13.5 cubic feet, which is slightly below average for the luxury midsize car class. However, the trunk’s design allows it to accommodate three suitcases and one cabin bag comfortably. Additionally, the rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo area, enhancing the vehicle’s versatility.
Real-World Efficiency: Fuel Economy and Electric Range
Fuel economy is one area where the 2025 Volvo S90 T8 excels, especially for a luxury sedan. The plug-in hybrid setup provides an electric-only range of 38 miles, perfect for daily commutes and city driving. Even in gasoline-only mode, the S90 offers a combined 29 MPG, outperforming many traditional gas-powered luxury sedans.
- Electric Range: 38 miles on electric power alone
- Gasoline Mode Economy: 29 MPG combined
After a week of testing, we found the S90 to be efficient and easy to live with, thanks to its hybrid technology and extended electric range.
Pros and Cons of the 2025 Volvo S90
Pros
- Rear Seat Comfort: Spacious and luxurious, with climate control and power sunshades
- Eco-Friendly Performance: Impressive 38-mile electric range and strong fuel economy
- Sophisticated Design: Timeless Scandinavian design that stands out
Cons
- Outdated Infotainment System: Limited smartphone integration and a dated display
- Limited Storage: The center console is small, making it less practical for storage
Competitors of 2025 Volvo S90
2025 Volvo S90 competes in the luxury midsize sedan segment, facing notable rivals such as the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Here’s a concise comparison of their key specifications:
2025 BMW 5 Series
- Engine Options: 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (530i) and 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 (540i)
- Power Output: 248 hp (530i) and 335 hp (540i)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive; all-wheel drive available
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 25-30 MPG combined, varying by model
- Notable Features: Advanced driver-assistance systems, high-quality interior materials, and a user-friendly infotainment system
2025 Audi A6
- Engine Options: 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (45 TFSI) and 3.0L turbocharged V6 (55 TFSI)
- Power Output: 261 hp (45 TFSI) and 335 hp (55 TFSI)
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Drivetrain: Quattro all-wheel drive standard
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 24-28 MPG combined, depending on the engine
- Notable Features: Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, MMI touch response infotainment system, and a refined, spacious interior
2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- Engine Options: 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (E350) and 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 with EQ Boost (E450)
- Power Output: 255 hp (E350) and 362 hp (E450)
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive; 4MATIC all-wheel drive available
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 23-27 MPG combined, varying by model
- Notable Features: MBUX infotainment system with voice control, luxurious interior with high-quality materials, and a suite of advanced safety features
Final Thoughts: Why the 2025 Volvo S90 Deserves a Closer Look
The 2025 Volvo S90 isn’t just a luxury sedan; it’s a statement in subtle sophistication and eco-friendly design. While it may lack some of the latest tech features found in its competitors, its blend of Scandinavian elegance, powerful performance, and rear-seat luxury make it a unique contender in the luxury sedan market.
For those who want a refined, reliable, and comfortable luxury sedan that’s as eco-conscious as it is luxurious, the 2025 Volvo S90 T8 offers something genuinely different from the crowd. Whether you’re a city commuter looking for fuel efficiency or an executive seeking comfort and space, the 2025 Volvo S90 is well worth considering.
