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Full expert breakdown
Buying a new car in India is a big decision. We think about so many things: How much will it cost? Is it safe for my family? What about monthly maintenance? Does it have all the latest features? And how good is the company service? Today, we are looking at a car that often ticks many of these boxes, especially if safety and luxury are high on your list: the new Volvo S90. Lets dive deep into what makes this Swedish luxury sedan a strong contender in the Indian market.
Engine Specifications
The Volvo S90 for the Indian market comes with a very refined engine.
- Engine Type: 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine with a mild-hybrid system (B5 Inscription).
- Max Power: Around 250 hp (184 kW)
- Max Torque: Around 350 Nm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Mileage: The mild-hybrid system helps improve fuel efficiency, though exact figures vary based on driving conditions. Expect decent figures for a luxury sedan.
Design Overview
Volvo is known for its elegant and understated design, and the S90 perfectly embodies this.
Exterior:
- It has a sophisticated look with clean lines.
- The signature Thor hammer LED headlights are instantly recognisable.
- A prominent front grille with the Volvo iron mark adds to its premium appeal.
- Stylish alloy wheels and a sleek, coupé-like roofline give it a dynamic yet graceful stance.
- The C-shaped LED taillights at the back are unique and modern.
Interior:
- Step inside, and you are greeted by a truly luxurious and minimalist cabin.
- High-quality materials like Nappa leather, fine wood, and brushed metal accents are used throughout.
- The vertical touchscreen infotainment system is a central highlight.
- Comfortable seats with excellent support, perfect for long journeys.
- Ample space for both front and rear passengers, making it a true executive sedan.
Key Features
The Volvo S90 is packed with features designed for comfort, convenience, and connectivity.
- 9-inch Sensus Connect vertical touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in (Google Maps, Google Assistant, Google Play)
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system (optional on some variants)
- Panoramic sunroof
- 360-degree camera
- Wireless phone charging
- Four-zone climate control
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Air purifier system
- Head-up display
- Power-operated tailgate
Ground Clearance of Volvo S90
The Volvo S90 has a ground clearance of approximately 153 mm. This is decent for a luxury sedan in India, though drivers should still be cautious over very large speed breakers.
Boot Space of Volvo S90
The S90 offers a generous boot space of around 500 litres. This is ample for carrying luggage for family trips or airport runs.
Dimensions of Volvo S90
- Length: 4969 mm
- Width: 1879 mm (without mirrors) / 2011 mm (with mirrors)
- Height: 1440 mm
- Wheelbase: 2941 mm
Powertrain Options
Currently, for the Indian market, the Volvo S90 is primarily offered with a single powertrain option:
- The B5 mild-hybrid petrol engine. This setup combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system, offering a good balance of performance and efficiency. There are no diesel or plug-in hybrid options available in India for the S90 at present.
Safety Features
Volvo is synonymous with safety, and the S90 is a shining example of this commitment. It comes loaded with advanced safety technologies.
- Seven airbags
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keeping Aid
- Blind Spot Information System BLIS with Cross Traffic Alert
- City Safety auto braking technology
- Run-off Road Mitigation
- Oncoming Lane Mitigation
- Road Sign Information
- Driver Alert Control
- Park Assist Pilot (automatic parking)
- High-strength boron steel safety cage
NCAP Rating Table
Volvo cars are globally recognized for their robust safety standards.
| Rating Type | Rating | Adult Occupant | Child Occupant | Safety Assist | Pedestrian Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Euro NCAP | 5-star | 95 percent | 80 percent | 76 percent | 70 percent |
| Bharat NCAP | Not rated yet for this model as it is a global luxury sedan. | - | - | - | - |
Note: The Volvo S90 received a 5-star rating from Euro NCAP, which is a highly reputable global safety assessment program. While it has not been tested by Bharat NCAP specifically, Volvo's global safety standards are consistently high across their models.
Rivals of Volvo S90
The Volvo S90 competes in a very competitive luxury sedan segment in India. Its main rivals include:
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- BMW 5 Series
- Audi A6
- Lexus ES
How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)
Lets look at the real-world experience of owning and driving the Volvo S90.
Advantages of Volvo S90:
- Unmatched Safety: Volvo’s reputation for safety is well-deserved, offering peace of mind for you and your family.
- Luxurious and Comfortable Cabin: The interior is exquisitely designed, offering a serene and comfortable environment.
- Refined Ride Quality: The S90 glides over most road imperfections, making it excellent for long drives.
- Distinctive Scandinavian Design: It stands out with its elegant, understated, and sophisticated looks.
- Advanced Features: Packed with cutting-edge technology for convenience, connectivity, and driver assistance.
- Mild-Hybrid Efficiency: The B5 engine offers a good balance of performance and reasonable fuel efficiency for its class.
Disadvantages of Volvo S90:
- Price: Being a CBU (Completely Built Unit) import, it can be slightly pricier than some locally assembled rivals.
- Limited Engine Options: Only one petrol mild-hybrid engine is available, which might disappoint those looking for diesel or more powerful performance variants.
- Perceived Maintenance Costs: While Volvo has improved its service network, the perception of higher maintenance costs for imported luxury cars can still be a factor for some buyers.
- Not the Sportiest: While comfortable, it is not as dynamically engaging as some of its German rivals, focusing more on refinement than outright sportiness.
- Infotainment System Learning Curve: The vertical touchscreen can take a little getting used to for new users.
Conclusion
The new Volvo S90 is more than just a car; it is a statement of understated luxury, uncompromising safety, and sophisticated technology. For Indian buyers prioritising comfort, advanced safety features, a serene driving experience, and a unique design that stands out from the crowd, the S90 makes a very compelling case. While it might not be the choice for track days, it is a perfect partner for daily commutes and long highway cruises, offering a tranquil and secure cocoon for its occupants. If you are looking for a premium sedan that values well-being and intelligent design, the Volvo S90 should definitely be on your test-drive list. It is a car that truly defines modern luxury.
