Volvo has unleashed its contender to challenge established premium saloons such as the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6 in the form of the all-new S90 saloon. Inspired from the 2013 Volvo Concept Coupé, the S90 is the Swede’s answer to counter Germany’s dominance in the mid-size premium saloon market, and is set to make its worldwide debut at the 2016 Detroit Motor Show in January.
Volvo said the S90 has taken a big stride forwards in terms of driving dynamics, performance and ride. Just like the newly launched RM454k Volvo XC90, its sedan brethren will also be benefiting from the same USD 11 billion Chinese injection to build and develop new game-changing automotive technology.
Since the XC90 was introduced, it has received plenty of distinguished accolades to its belt, and the S90 seeks to ride the same bandwagon of success by adopting its looks. The sedan’s design language is a fine balance between its boxy past and the modern Scandinavian curves. Its front end is very much as visually stunning as the XC90, but the rear commands more than just a second look to really understand a profound one-word question – why?
Its cabin is also inspired by the XC90, with natural finish wood and fine leathers all around. Complimenting the interior includes digitised instrument clusters, Bower and Wilkins stereo, the iPad looking 9-inch Sensus Connect touchscreen and lastly, luxurious soft Nappa leather seats (these are extremely comfy in the XC90).
Both the XC90 and S90 sit on the same SPA platform (Scalable Product Architecture), which naturally means sharing similar powertrains. Volvo’s range topping Twin Engine T8 2.0-litre Drive-E engine making 407 hp and 640 Nm of torque will be the S90’s top-end power plant – one that Volvo Car Malaysia is doing their best to make sure it arrives here. Also offered are the T5 and T6 petrol engines, as well as the D4 and D5 diesel engines. All variants regardless of powertrain will be mated to Aisin’s eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The S90 has plenty of new electronic goodies offered; one such is the Pilot Assist, an advanced semi-autonomous drive feature that makes sure the car doesn’t stray from its lane on the highway. This works up to speeds up 130 km/h! Another unique feature offered is City Safety; a system that actively detects moving objects and subjects, and subsequently warns the driver. It also provides autonomous braking to prevent collision.
As you would have expect, a wagon variant – the V90 – is also in the pipeline, and will feature the same power- and drivetrain as its S90 and XC90 siblings. Performance freaks will be pleased to know that a Polestar version for both the S90 and V90 are also in the works!
This S90 is among Volvo’s new transformative generation of products that have already begun sending shockwaves in the premium automotive segment. One thing is for sure, the Germans cannot afford to slack any longer!
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