[Taboleo] "Sir, please get in" Emerging contender in the mid-large sedan segment, Volvo S90

Volvo Launches Facelifted S90 After 4 Years
Long-Body Model with Over 5m Length and 3m Wheelbase
Transformed into a 'Chauffeur-Driven' Sedan with Spacious Rear Seats
Elegant Design Combined with a Wild Powertrain

#Volvo #New S90 #Imported Flagship Sedan #E-segment #Cost-effective Practical Imported Sedan #Boss Car #Chauffeur-driven #Symbol of Safety

[Asia Economy Reporter Woo Su-yeon] The E-segment (mid-to-large) sedan is one of the most competitive markets in the domestic automobile industry. From the domestic best-selling Grandeur to the Genesis G80, and among imported cars, prestigious models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, and Audi A6 compete fiercely. Last year, Volvo, which recently joined the '10,000 units club' and is on the rise, has challenged the E-segment sedan market this month with the launch of the new S90. We test-drove the B5 Inscription model equipped with a mild hybrid gasoline engine to see if the Volvo S90, returning as a facelift model after four years, can become a new powerhouse in the domestic E-segment market.

Front view of the new Volvo S90

Rear view of the new Volvo S90

- How has the design changed compared to the previous model?

▲ Typically, facelift models improve design or performance partially before release. However, Volvo's facelifted S90 attempts a near-new car level change by applying new body proportions as well as design changes. While it doesn't feel like the entire design has drastically changed, new elements are hidden throughout, and sitting inside, you can clearly feel the difference in body size.

First, looking at the front design, the Volvo emblem placed above the radiator grille has been changed to a three-dimensional (3D) form. This Iron Mark represents Volvo's identity and also adds a functional role as a camera. The headlights are equipped with signature LED lamps called 'Thor's Hammer.' Chrome details on the grille and front and rear bumpers add a modern sensibility.

- Sitting in the rear seat, the space feels much more spacious.

▲ The new S90's overall length is 5,090 mm. Among flagship sedans in the same class, the S90 is the only model exceeding 5 meters in length. The wheelbase (distance between the centers of the front and rear wheels), which determines interior space, has increased by 120 mm from the previous model to 3,060 mm. Sitting in the rear seat, there is enough space to stretch your legs halfway reclining. Previously, Volvo sedans were classified as 'owner-driven' cars, primarily driven by the owner. However, the new S90 aims to expand into the 'chauffeur-driven' segment by enlarging rear seat space and adding various convenience features.

Volvo New S90 Rear Seat

- How is the interior design?

▲ Personally, I think Volvo's greatest strength is its sophisticated and restrained design. Volvo's unique refined design is well reflected in the S90's interior. The dashboard and center console, featuring natural wood grain, give an eco-friendly feel, and the seat comfort was satisfactory. The front seats now include electric massage and ventilated seat functions. Volvo's signature vertical air conditioning vents and a crystal gear knob made from natural crystal add a luxurious touch.

Volvo New S90 Interior

Volvo New S90 Crystal Gear Knob

- How about driving performance?

▲ The model I test-drove was a gasoline vehicle equipped with a 48V mild hybrid system. Its appearance is that of a sophisticated urban man, but the engine feels like a powerful beast. Especially, the mild hybrid electric motor is designed to assist engine output during start acceleration and restart, providing excellent initial torque. When pressing the accelerator, the speed surged quickly. The B5 engine delivers a maximum output of 250 horsepower and a peak torque of 35.7 kg·m. The official fuel efficiency is 11.3 km/L based on combined mileage. The actual fuel efficiency during driving from Yeouido, Seoul to Yeongjongdo, Incheon was about 8.5 km/L.

The new S90 was launched not only with the mild hybrid gasoline but also with a plug-in hybrid model. The plug-in hybrid model is equipped with the T8 engine, which combines a 318-horsepower gasoline engine and an 87-horsepower electric motor, delivering a total of 405 horsepower. The maximum torque reaches an impressive 40.8 kg·m.

- What convenience features are included for safety?

▲ Volvo is known as the 'symbol of safety.' Recently, during a famous person's wrong-way driving accident, a family riding in a Volvo was safely rescued, reaffirming Volvo's safety reputation. The new S90 extensively uses boron steel in the body to enhance rigidity and comes standard with an advanced intelligent safety system. The 'City Safety' system, combining automatic braking and collision avoidance, can detect vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, and large animals.

Additionally, it includes Pilot Assist, which automatically adjusts the distance from the car ahead, lane departure mitigation, oncoming lane collision avoidance, and a blind-spot information system. Especially for novice drivers unfamiliar with vehicle safety, a new 'CareKey' function allows pre-setting the maximum speed to prevent speeding accidents.

'Bowers & Wilkins' Audio Speaker System Implementing Jazz Mode

- I enjoy listening to music in the car. How is the audio system?

▲ One of the most satisfying aspects whenever I test-drive various Volvo vehicles is the audio system. The S90 is equipped with the British high-end speaker system 'Bowers & Wilkins.' The car interior has as many as 19 speakers, delivering concert hall-like sound quality. The sound system can be set to four modes: ▲Concert Hall ▲Studio ▲Individual Stage ▲Jazz Club, allowing you to choose sound modes according to the music, whether grand or mellow.

- What is the price range of the S90?

▲ The new S90 gasoline model is priced at 60.3 million KRW for the B5 Momentum and 66.9 million KRW for the B5 Inscription in Korea. The plug-in hybrid model, T8 AWD Inscription, is priced at 85.4 million KRW, about 20 million KRW more expensive. Compared to competing imported E-segment sedans starting in the low 60 million KRW range and exceeding 100 million KRW, this is a very competitive price. For those who want to purchase a practical flagship sedan at a reasonable price, I recommend adding the Volvo S90 to your purchase list.