Volvo S90

The 2021 Volvo S90 maintains its elegant and understated design, with subtle updates that enhance its overall appearance. While it may seem similar to its predecessor at first glance, closer inspection reveals a cleaner and more refined styling. The most noticeable change is at the front, where the car's chin has been simplified, all thanks to a cleaner and basic grille design for the lower air dam. Despite these updates, the S90 retains its distinctive long and sleek profile, with a commanding presence on the road. The elongated bonnet, pushed-back cabin, and square shoulders give it a regal air, while the squared-off boot and C-shaped tail-lights at the rear add to its distinctive character. Although there are minor changes at the rear, such as the absence of the rectangular exhaust on the new petrol model, the overall design remains faithful to the original, ensuring the S90 maintains its timeless appeal.

In typical Volvo style, the cabin of the 2021 Volvo S90 is beautifully built and tastefully designed, featuring classy elements that create an inviting environment. Familiar components like the steering wheel, instrument panel, and vertically aligned touchscreen are seamlessly integrated, while high-gloss chrome and piano-black accents enhance the Scandinavian vibe. The infotainment system now gets connected tech with pre-installed apps like Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Spotify. In the rear, there's ample legroom, but the slightly low seating position affects overall comfort.

The Volvo S90 has never fallen short when it comes to in-cabin comfort and this latest version is no different. The front seats are as great as before and are offered with electric adjust while the rear seats too will keep the occupants happy with the amount of space available. The S90 offers ample legroom and a well-angled backrest, contributing to overall comfort. However, the rear seat is slightly low, which may compromise comfort for some passengers.

The biggest change comes in the form of powertrain options as the 2021 Volvo S90 now gets the updated B420T2 petrol engine, perfectly suited to its relaxed demeanour. The engine starts smoothly, responds promptly to throttle inputs, and is aided by a 10kW boost from the 48V electric system, effectively masking any turbo lag for effortless city driving.  Performance feels linear rather than explosive, with power building steadily throughout the rev range. Acceleration is decent, reaching 0-100kph in 6.9 seconds, though the engine sounds strained at higher speeds. The 8-speed gearbox is improved and offers smoother shifts, but lacks the finesse of some rivals. 

Where the S90 truly shines is in its comfort-oriented ride. The chassis, coil springs, air suspension, and dampers work harmoniously to deliver a cocooned experience, absorbing road imperfections effortlessly. Although not a corner carver, its light steering and moderate grip make it more suited to relaxed cruising over long distances.

Staying true to its DNA, the Volvo S90 gets all possible active and passive safety features for its class including Pilot Assist, collision mitigation support, parking assistance and other active safety features like lane keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, hill start assist, rain sensor, intelligent driver information system, and more. Moreover, the S90 also boasts features like 360-degree camera, blind sport information system with cross-traffic alert, emergency brake assist, and more. 

On the features front, the S90 is well-equipped with a four-zone air-con system, ventilated front seats, electrically actuated side and rear blinds, a sunroof, nappa leather upholstery, wireless charging, and various driver aids including lane-keeping assist and blind-spot alert. The new S90 also gets Bowers and Wilkins 19-speaker audio system along with wireless charging pad, air-suspension, 360-degree camera, and a 12.3-inch digital driver display. 

Even in 2024, the Volvo S90 comes out to be one of the best petrol sedans in its class in terms of its overall exterior styling, in-cabin experience and comfort, performance, and safety. Despite lacking diesel or strong-hybrid options, the refined petrol engine delivers smooth performance, complemented by Volvo's renowned safety features. While not the most engaging to drive, the S90 excels in comfort and sophistication, making it ideal for those prioritizing luxury and safety over sportiness.