by Anthony Fongaro - Photos by Volvo- 03/09/2024
What more can be said about the modern Volvo than hasn’t been said before? They exude understated sophistication, powered by 2.0-liter engines in various configurations, albeit with a less-than-stellar infotainment system. From the XC90 to the V60, Volvo maintains a consistent design language, including the Volvo S90 Recharge. Since Volvo is going head-first into full electrification, this is probably the last large Volvo sedan with a gas engine. Seeing the S90 as the end of ICE in its large sedan, is this still the sleeper with a luxurious interior and striking looks?
Despite its age, the S90 remains a handsome sedan. Finished in Denim Blue with 20-inch diamond-cut wheels, it exudes understated elegance. The telltale signs of its PHEV nature are subtle: a charging flap on the driver's side and a discreet Recharge badge. Yet, the iconic Thor’s hammer lights and prominent Volvo badges at the front and rear endure. Being the Bright Theme, the S90 has a good amount of chrome trim. It may be dated, but the S90 is still a handsome sedan.
The interior of the S90 has a clean, minimalist layout, though it’s starting to feel a bit dated. The heated, tailored, wool-blend seats are extremely comfortable, though they’re not ventilated. The driver’s digital display is sharp and clear, but it lacks customization options. The Ultimate trim includes a convenient head-up display, which adds ease to the driving experience. However, Volvo’s infotainment system feels limited compared to competitors; the screen feels undersized, is somewhat challenging to navigate, and the backup camera display is also quite small. While cabin space is somewhat limited, the interior materials are of high quality, creating an upscale feel.
Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine, and a 14-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the S90 Recharge accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. You can have the S90 Recharge start in Pure EV mode, or run in Normal. The regenerative braking system is activated when you put the gearbox in B mode and activates one-pedal driving. You can drive at up to 30 miles of electric range and the engine returns around 28 MPG.
Volvos are known for safety, and the S90 Recharge comes with their Pilot Assist. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and collision avoidance. Pricing for the S90 Recharge starts at $72,000. Add another $1,600 for the Lounge Package which includes the snazzy wool seats and crystal gear shifter by Orrefors, $3,200 for the excellent Bowers & Wilkins Premium sound system, and $1,200 for the Active Chassis with Rear Air Suspension, and this S90 Recharge came out to a little over $78,000. It may be dated, but the S90 Recharge is quick, handsome, and very comfortable.
_websize.jpg)
