The new Volvo S90 is now available in South Africa. Making its local debut as the second brand-new Volvo since the company began its ‘New Dawn’ renaissance with the local launch of the all-new XC90 in 2015, the new Volvo S90 is a continuation of the new look, new feel and new luxury Volvo brand in South Africa

Marking Volvo’s return to the large executive sedan segment, the new S90 offers unprecedented Swedish luxury, supreme comfort and space, modern Scandinavian design, Drive-E efficiency and semi-autonomous driving as standard on all models. The new S90, like the XC90, is built on Volvo Cars’ new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) and features a mixed offering of petrol and diesel engines, and is available in three trim levels to cater to a wide audience while also offering a broad spectrum of value and Swedish luxury.

The new Volvo S90 launches in South Africa initially with two engines – the D5 and T6, both with all-wheel drive – in Momentum or Inscription guise. Later in 2017, the D4 and T5 derivatives will follow, with front-wheel drive, and the range-topping T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will make its way to South Africa at a later date.

Greg Maruszewski, MD of Volvo Car South Africa, elaborates: “With the new Volvo S90 we are again bringing a new level of luxury to South African motorists. Naturally, it builds on the global successes of the XC90, which has collected over 120 awards to date, including the 2016 WesBank/SAGMJ Car of the Year title in South Africa. We expect that the S90 will continue our brand’s resurgence in the local context as well as globally.

“The S90 is a beautifully elegant large sedan with clean, minimalistic design elements and a truly premium interior, enhanced by our typically generous levels of standard equipment, well-priced optional extras and of course our all-encompassing warranty and maintenance plan. We know that South African buyers in this segment want class, sophistication and luxury – and with the S90 we are now able to offer them such an option which holds significant cost advantages over its main competitors in the segment.

“The S90’s tag line is ‘Relaxed confidence’, and we truly believe this personifies the calm yet assertive nature of the largest sedan in our range.”

CHAPTERS

1. Design
2. Sensus Connect
3. Semi-autonomous driving
4. Drive-E powertrains, efficiency and performance
5. Chassis and suspension
6. Safety
7. Trim levels and equipment
8. Range overview and pricing

 

1. DESIGN

Lead by Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President of Design at Volvo Car Group, the new S90’s svelte appearance really is something to behold. Longer, wider and lower than competitors, the sleek design is actually reminiscent of a sports coupe rather than a large sedan, and when seen on the road imparts immediate presence and commands attention.

The long bonnet is fronted by the new face of Volvo of course – where the new radiator grille, with its 23 concave vertical ribs inspired by the classic Volvo P1800 Coupe of the 1960s and the new Volvo iron mark, is flanked by Volvo’s new signature full-LED headlights which are standard on all derivatives and feature the ‘Thor’s Hammer’ daytime running light pattern. A clean and fuss-free air dam signs off the visage and leads to a long (4 963 mm), slender body.

Along the sides, a narrow glasshouse, framed by satin chrome accents, and a relatively clean side profile, is off-set by a long wheelbase (2 941 mm) and well-balanced overhangs. Large wheels, which are at a minimum 18-inches in diameter, ranging up to as much as 21-inches, lend a sporty air to the S90.

At the rear, a long overhang hints at a capacious boot (500 litres), and the large tail light clusters add enormous presence to the sassy rear end. Also exhibiting a new design signature for future Volvo sedans, the LED-based lights are carved by the edges of the boot lid, which is highlighted by the prominent Volvo word mark and model badging. The S90 is finished off by a fuss-free rear valence which features either twin round- or rhombical tail pipe finishers and a blacked-out middle section – which also enhances the sense of width.

On the inside, the new Volvo S90 is clearly related to the XC90 – albeit with a unique design overhaul for the sedan execution. Space is plentiful and the play on light which enters the cabin is the epitome of Swedish design ethos. Real textures like open-pore wood, aluminium, leather and glass abound, ensuring that no matter which elements may come into contact with occupants of the S90, they always sense absolute class and sophistication.

The dashboard is underscored by a unique metal spline that runs from door to door, which visually grips the outermost air vents and highlights the central infotainment interface. The same as that which features in the XC90, the 9-inch HD Sensus Connect touch screen interface takes pride of place and, uniquely for the S90, is flanked by gorgeous vertical air vents which feature an ‘air blade’ design with solid metal, diamond-cut shutter knobs – which were originally seen in the Volvo Concept Coupe of 2013, a car which shares much of its design elements with the new S90.

Also unique to the S90 are the three-dimensional décor inserts, which feature on the doors and across the dashboard. Available in a variety of materials including open-pore Linear Walnut, polished Dark Flame Birchwood and Metal Mesh, the visual and textile elements create a truly unique sensory experience. Other design highlights include Volvo’s signature frameless rear view mirror with standard auto-dimming functionality, diamond-cut roller knobs for the audio system and Drive Mode selector, and of course the standard 12.3-inch HD digital instrument cluster in all derivatives.

The seats, which are of course exceptionally comfortable, have been designed around the human spine and are covered in high-quality leather in all models. The front seats also feature a unique impact-absorbing mechanism which is designed to collapse in the event of the vehicle becoming airborne during a crash, in order to minimise the potential for spinal injuries. In the rear, leg room is excellent, with as much as 911 mm available between the rear passenger’s hip point and the front seat floor mounts.

 

2. SENSUS CONNECT

Like the XC90, the new S90 features minimal arrays of buttons, especially on the dashboard. The 9-inch high definition Sensus Connect interface is responsible for most in-car functions, from entertainment and telephony to settings, climate control and navigation. Designed around the same principles as today’s leading smart devices, the tablet-style interface with its portrait orientation is easy to use, responsive (even while wearing gloves) and intuitive, with tap, pinch and swipe gesture controls and customisable shortcuts, giving the driver quick and easy access to their preferred vehicle functions. Various themes are available for the Sensus Connect interface and the instrument cluster, allowing drivers the choice of classic, minimalistic, metallic and sporty overtones.

The ‘home’ screen houses four main tiles, with the first three dedicated to navigation, entertainment and telephony. The fourth is a wildcard, dedicated to other functions which the driver may access at any given moment. What sets Sensus Connect apart from other touch-based Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) is that these expandable main tiles are always visible and accessible, collapsing around that which the driver wants to focus on – which means there is no need to navigate back and forth between menus or screens to access previously-used functions while driving.

Two supplementary screens offer shortcuts to apps and other vehicle information systems, and a full spread of important vehicle functions like the parking sensors, traction control, camera activation and supplementary safety systems like Lane Keeping Aid. These shortcuts can all be rearranged so that the driver has immediate access to their preferred functions without needing to find a specific shortcut while on the move.

Climate controls for the standard dual-zone automatic climate control system are accessible at any time, remaining visible at the bottom edge of the screen and expanding when tapped. When fitted with optional 4-zone automatic climate control, a secondary climate control unit for the rear seats is included with touch-based temperature and fan speed controls for rear occupants.

Naturally, a full settings menu which allows the driver to adjust endless aspects of the car is also on hand, alongside a fully-digital owner’s manual with smart search functionality.

Standard navigation

All S90 derivatives feature satellite navigation as standard, with pinch zoom and real-time traffic updates. Available also with free map upgrades for life, the system is easy to use and can be effortlessly programmed with searchable points of interest, favourites and full itinerary logging.

Entertainment system and connectivity

Fitted as standard with ten high-quality speakers, entertainment in the new Volvo S90 is always a premium experience. Bluetooth, USB, aux and radio functionality are available as standard, with an optional CD player available as well.  Internet connectivity also features as standard, with the S90 able to tap into a smart device’s network connection or an external Wi-Fi network which enables apps like TuneIn internet radio, connected service booking and downloadable vehicle updates.

Other USB-based content including photos and HD videos can also be viewed on the Sensus Connect screen, provided the vehicle is stationary and in Park.

Smartphone Integration and telephony

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto¹ are both available in the optional Smartphone Integration package, which enables owners of Apple iPhones or Android-based smartphones to connect their devices directly to the Sensus Connect interface, which then provides a direct link to the device via a dedicated, secondary USB port. While connected, the phone can remain hidden and on charge, in the centre console. These third-party interfaces are integrated seamlessly within the Sensus Connect interface and provide access to phone, messages, maps, music and selected other phone functions depending on the platform, all within a familiar iOS- or Android-based environment. The car’s three default tiles of course remain visible at all times for easy access.

Regardless of the presence of Smartphone Integration, conventional Bluetooth connectivity is of course available as standard and provides a wireless link between phone and car via a dedicated, always-visible tile on the Sensus Connect screen. Full access to call logs, contacts and SMS messages is included, with dictation or on-screen typing or writing available to reply to text messages directly via Sensus Connect.

Voice control

Voice control is also fitted as standard to all derivatives and is effective in managing aspects of navigation, phone, climate, media and other vehicle functions. Adept in understanding the multitude of South African accents, the system makes it even easier for the driver to maintain full focus on the road while adjusting the temperature and fan speed, or making an important call.

 

3. SEMI-AUTONOMOUS AS STANDARD

Dramatically increasing the inherent value of all S90 derivatives – and moving one step closer towards fully-autonomous cars – is the fact that all S90 derivatives are semi-autonomous up to 130 km/h as standard. Working hand-in-hand, Adaptive Cruise Control and Pilot Assist enhance the S90’s driveability and allow drivers to hand over control to the car in varying degrees of engagement.

Available with a toggle option to conventional cruise control, should the driver prefer not to enjoy the benefits of an adaptive system, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) uses radar and a camera to manage the S90’s speed in relation to the car in front, when applicable and up to 200 km/h. The system reacts readily to changing conditions, and is capable of bringing the S90 to a complete stop.

As an extension of ACC, new-generation Pilot Assist, which has been available in South Africa in the XC90 since late 2016 already, takes things a step further. Activated manually, the driver can also allow the S90 to control steering input at speeds up to 130 km/h, provided there are clear lane markings on both sides of the car. This ‘driver in the loop’ system is provided as an outright assistance feature and requires the driver to keep at least one hand on the wheel and maintain focus on the road at all times – but with its gentle steering inputs allows the driver to relax behind the wheel to a large extent. It is important to note that semi-autonomous systems are restricted in how much acceleration, braking and steering force they may apply, and that the driver is always legally responsible for driving the vehicle. The driver can at any time override Pilot Assist by applying the brakes, applying steering force or switching back to ACC.

Pilot Assist comes in particularly handy on the daily commute and especially when stuck in a traffic jam.

 

4. DRIVE-E POWERTRAINS, EFFICIENCY AND PERFORMANCE

Mirroring those of the XC90, the new Volvo S90 is also available with a range of petrol and diesel engines, as well as front- or all-wheel drive. All models feature the silky-smooth 8-speed Geartronic automatic transmission. All engines are part of the Drive-E engine family – designed by Volvo, for Volvo. The modular, aluminium engines are all 2.0-litres in capacity and all feature forced induction – for a great balance between performance and efficiency with real-world merit.

Diesel engines

Diesel power is provided by either the D4 or D5 engines. The D4 is twin-turbocharged to produce 140 kW at 4 250 rpm, with 400 Nm of torque on hand between 1 750 and 2 500 rpm. The quiet and smooth-running engine is mated to the front wheels only and brings excellent efficiency to the table, right from the get-go. Consisting of a serial, sequential, low- and high-pressure two-stage twin-turbo system, advanced boosting on the D4 engine is based on a refined version of the boosting technology first introduced in Volvo cars in 2008. As then, advanced boosting enables the delivery of increased power and drivability, but with lower fuel consumption. The two-stage turbo system also allows for better low- and high-speed response.

Average fuel economy is 4.4-litres per 100 km on the combined cycle, with corresponding carbon emissions of 116 g/km coming in below the national taxation threshold. Performance figures are respectable, with a 0-100 km/h time of 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h.

The D5 engine which features PowerPulse technology is a game-changer. Powering all four wheels and featuring a two-stage, series-sequential twin-turbocharger system with variable geometry, the engine is further augmented by a 2.0-litre tank of compressed air. Available on demand, the compressed air is fed through to the high-pressure turbo on pull-away and under light throttle inputs for instant spool-up, effectively removing the turbo lag that tends to characterise high-output diesel motors. The tank is topped up immediately and quickly after each activation, ensuring another fresh burst is ready to be used, and Volvo Cars is the only manufacturer currently using this technology.

Outputs are impressive – 173 kW is produced at 4 000 rpm, while a meaty 480 Nm of torque is on hand from 1 750 to 2 250 rpm. Below this rev range, PowerPulse ensures a smooth driving experience, with the results making the engine actually feel more normally-aspirated rather than turbocharged.

Naturally, the D5’s efficiency is as impressive as its output – average combined consumption is just 4.8-litres per 100 km and carbon emissions are as low as 127 g/km. Performance is real-world impressive, with the 0-100 km/h sprint achievable in just 7.0 seconds, and top speed is 240 km/h.

Advanced combustion – diesel

i-ART (intelligent Accuracy Refinement Technology) represents the latest diesel fuel system technology. The system rail pressure of up to 2 500 bar is increased compared to previous systems of 1 800 to 2 000 bar. Thanks to a pressure sensor and an intelligent chip in each injector, it is possible to gather accurate information from each injector, resulting in much-improved control of the injected fuel quantity. This accurate and compensating injection system delivers up to 9 injections per combustion cycle for precise combustion control. As each injector responds to real-time changes in its cylinder, the constantly variable injection can compensate for variations due to production and aging of the system. This precise control of the combustion cycle means that consumption can be balanced to meet state-of-the-art attribute levels and deliver up to 2 percent improved fuel efficiency. Volvo Cars was the first European car maker to introduce i-ART technology in its cars.

Petrol engines

On the petrol front, two options are available. The T5 with front wheel drive sees 187 kW (at 5 500 rpm) and 350 Nm (between 1 500 and 4 800 rpm) on hand for swift performance and an enjoyable drive. Efficiency from this high-pressure turbocharged engine is good – average combined fuel consumption is 6.5-litres per 100 km and carbon emissions are 149 g/km. 0-100 km/h takes 6.8 seconds, and top speed is 230 km/h.

The T6 engine, mated to all-wheel drive, is the cream of the crop. Featuring a turbocharger and a supercharger, which supplements the turbo and takes care of low-down grunt until 3 500 rpm, power and torque is effectively available on demand – the T6 engine produces 235 kW at 5 700 rpm and 400 Nm between 2 200 and 5 400 rpm. The resulting performance is gutsy, with the 0-100 dash completed in 5.9 seconds, with top speed limited to 250 km/h.

Despite the high output, the T6 remains impressively efficient, able to achieve 7.2-litres per 100 km on the combined average, with carbon emissions of 165 g/km.

Advanced combustion – petrol

The combustion system designed for the petrol engines comprises a centrally mounted spark plug and injector with a unique spray layout that provides a homogeneous air-fuel mixture. This central direct injection technique enables stratified start and an effective catalyst heating mode that outperforms Port Fuel Injection (PFI) and side mounted Direct Injection engines, resulting in low fuel consumption and enabling Euro6 and LEVIII emission compliance, and improved low-end torque compared with PFI by using scavenging and charge cooling by direct fuel injection. The intake ports are designed to generate a high tumble motion, promoting the mixing of air and fuel during the intake stroke. In the succeeding compression stroke, this tumble motion is broken down into turbulence, accelerating the combustion speed. The combustion is therefore very stable, enabling a high degree of internal EGR, which minimises pumping losses, hence reducing fuel consumption. Special efforts were made to achieve a combustion system that is knock-resistant. The cooling water jacket, intake ports, spray target and combustion chamber geometry were fine-tuned, enabling a fuel-efficient, high compression ratio of 10.8 for the T5 engine and 10.3 for the T6.

Geartronic and AWD

The 8-speed Geartronic automatic transmission found in all S90 models is also a vital part of Drive-E powertrain technology. The single-clutch, planetary automatic gearbox offers quick and smooth shifting, converter technology for powerful launches, a high torque capacity considering its small size and low weight and integrates stop-start technology in all derivatives with an electric oil pump keeping the transmission ready for re-start.

The D5 and T6 all-wheel drive versions of the S90 feature a highly-efficient BorgWarner all-wheel drive system. A compact and lightweight coupling (BorgWarner Gen. 5) distributes the engine’s power between the front and rear wheels. Under normal, dry conditions, practically all of the power is distributed to the front wheels. The system constantly calculates the need for torque on the rear wheels and can instantly redistribute up to 50 per cent of the engine’s torque rearwards. When at a standstill, full all-wheel drive is always engaged to prepare for maximum traction during acceleration off the line.

Drive Modes

Three main Drive Modes are available in the new S90 – Comfort, Eco and Dynamic. Selectable via the diamond-cut Drive Mode selector on the centre console, the driver can adjust the engine and gearbox characteristics, as well as the car’s responsiveness, as they wish. When fitted with optional air suspension the Drive Mode selector also adjusts the ride characteristics of the car. In Comfort and Eco modes, ride is kept relatively soft and compliant. When switched to Dynamic, the ride adopts a firmer setup for increased feedback and improved handling.

A fourth Drive Mode is also available for S90 drivers to customise a host of driving elements to their exact taste. Individual mode allows the driver to select preferred settings for, amongst others, throttle and gearbox responsiveness, engine mapping, ride characteristics and the level of steering feedback.

 

5. CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION

Built on Volvo’s SPA platform (Scalable Product Architecture), the new S90 has benefitted from unprecedented freedoms between the design and engineering departments. With ultramodern production methods and design possibilities, and the ever-increasing need to cram more technology under the skin, the modular and almost entirely flexible platform means that designers see more of their imaginative elements making production, because the engineers are better equipped to integrate their multitude of complicated elements behind creatively-shaped sheet metal.

SPA is entirely flexible in terms of width, height, length, wheelbase, ground clearance and body style, meaning that a full-size, 7-seat SUV like the XC90 can be built on the same platform as a sporty mid-size sedan, for example. Only the space between the firewall and front axle remains fixed. It is this overall flexibility and the ability to share one platform between multiple vehicle lines which makes development more cost-effective, shortens lead times between the first design sketches and the production vehicle, and even the amount of time it takes to build different cars on the same production line.

Suspension in the S90 is similar to that of the XC90, with a double wishbone and coil spring setup at the front with a stabiliser bar, and an integral axle with transverse composite leaf spring employed at the rear along with hydraulic dampers and a stabiliser bar. It is this transverse leaf spring which gained widespread acclaim in the XC90, and the effect of creating a truly comfortable and cosseting ride has been achieved yet again in the S90. And, due to the lack of traditional coils and the turrets that go with them, the S90’s boot is an unimpeded and wide-opening cavity with flat sides and no encroaching suspension housings whatsoever.

Available as cost-effective optional equipment, 2-corner air suspension with Active Chassis adaption replaces the rear transverse leaf setup. The air suspension with self-levelling functionality makes the S90’s ride even more compliant, with exceptional damping and rebound rates for a truly luxurious drive. Active Chassis control, which includes the addition of active shock absorbers up front, allows damping to be constantly adapted according to changing driving conditions as detected by the car or the selected Drive Mode – with a softer ride on hand in Comfort and Eco modes, adapting to a firmer setup in Dynamic mode.

 

6. SAFETY EQUIPMENT

As can be expected, the new S90 picks up on the high precedent set by the XC90 and as such features all of Volvo’s latest safety systems as standard. This naturally includes ABS, EBD, EBA, stability and traction control, hill start assistance and six airbags, and Volvo’s Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS). Volvo’s patented safety cage is also employed in the S90’s body construction, with high-tensile Boron steel (35%) and a mix of other metals ensuring that the passenger compartment remains intact and that other parts of the car can absorb energy effectively, in the event of a collision.

Coincidentally timed with the launch of S90 in South Africa, Euro NCAP announced on 25 January that the new S90 achieved the expected 5-star safety rating as well as full-marks for autonomous emergency braking for pedestrians (Pedestrian AEB). Valid as well for the S90’s estate sibling, the V90, this means that the top three best-ever safety ratings achieved at Euro NCAP belong to Volvo cars – naturally including the XC90 which raised the bar in 2015.

A number of supplementary “IntelliSafe” safety systems are also on hand as standard to assist in preventing accidents, or at least minimising the potential for damage and injury should a crash be unavoidable.

• City Safety is an autonomous emergency braking system designed to avoid or mitigate impacts with a leading vehicle. City Safety first issues a loud warning sound and prepares the brakes for maximum stopping power, and then can apply up to 100% braking force if the driver does not react in time. Seat belts are also tightened.
• City Safety also includes:
  • Pedestrian Detection: can detect and avoid collisions with pedestrians. Should an impact be unavoidable, the system will have at least reduced the S90’s speed and so reduce the potential injury as a result, at speeds up to 70 km/h. Complete avoidance is possible at speeds up to 45 km/h.
  • Cyclist Detection: able to detect cyclists, warns the driver and the vehicle brakes autonomously if the driver does not react. The car’s speed can be reduced by up to 50 km/h in such scenarios.
  • Large Animal Detection: utilises radar to detect large animals like moose and horses. The driver will be warned and prompted to brake, at which point the car can apply additional brake pressure to support avoidance if needed. If the driver does not react, the system applies the brakes to mitigate the possible effects of an impending collision. The car’s speed can be reduced autonomously by up to 15 km/h.
  • Autobrake at Intersections is designed to stop the car autonomously if the driver turns into the path of an oncoming vehicle – a world-first which debuted in the XC90.
• Run-off Road Mitigation and Protection with Road Edge Detection is able to detect the edge of the road, between 65 and 140 km/h. Should the car approach the edge, steering force is applied to nudge the car back into its lane. If this input is insufficient to avoid run-off, the S90 is then able to brake in order to reduce speed as much as possible before run-off, and then protect against the effects of a run-off road scenario and brace for impact. Launched in the XC90, Run-off Road Protection tightens the front seat belts, and the energy-absorbing front seats are able to minimise potential spinal injuries if the vehicle becomes airborne.
• Rear Collision Warning is able to detect an impending collision from the rear and will flash the tail lights to try and alert the following vehicle to the potential impact. It also applies the S90’s brakes to reduce the chances of a knock-on frontal impact if the S90 is stationary.
• Distance Alert advises the driver when they are following the car ahead too closely. It links back to City Safety, ensuring a safe minimum following distance is observed so that, if necessary, the relative collision avoidance systems are most-effective.
• Driver Alert Control uses sensors to monitor the driving behaviour of the driver. If the system detects possible fatigue or lack of concentration, the car will suggest that the driver takes a break. Linked to the navigation system, nearby rest stops, refreshment facilities and hotels may also be suggested.
• Lane Keeping Aid and Lane Departure Warning work together or on their own to assist the driver to stay safely in a lane. The driver is able to activate or deactivate one or both of the systems, depending on their preferences behind the wheel. Lane Departure Warning offers audible or vibration feedback through the steering wheel to alert the driver that they are wandering out of their lane. Lane Keeping Aid, when activated, takes things a step further by applying steering torque to gently guide the S90 back into its lane.
• Road Sign Information uses the navigation system and real-time camera detection to inform the driver of certain road signs – like speed limits and no-overtaking zones. An audible or visual warning system is also available to alert the driver when they exceed the speed limit by a margin of their choice.

Two optional supplementary safety systems are also available:

• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) utilises radar sensors to monitor for vehicles in the S90’s blind spots. BLIS can also detect fast-approaching vehicles from up to 70 metres behind the S90.
• Cross Traffic Alert (CTA) is linked to BLIS, utilising the same sensors to warn the driver of approaching vehicles or pedestrians from up to 30 metres on either side of the S90. Useful when reversing out of a parking space where obstacles make it difficult to see oncoming vehicles or pedestrians, a warning sound and symbolic representation on the Sensus Connect screen alert the driver.

Taking on a safety role as well as being a styling highlight are the full-LED automatic headlights with Active Bending and Active High Beam technology. The lights not only offer energy-efficient and long-lasting lighting technology as standard, but have been designed to provide maximum effective illumination at all times. The Active Bending technology allows the headlights to swivel in accordance with steering wheel input, and the front LED fog lights with cornering activation are used to extend this effect when turning around corners at low speeds or reversing. Active High Beam means that the Volvo S90 can provide full high beam illumination at all times without blinding other road users. Utilising the S90’s IntelliSafe camera, the system is able to detect leading or approaching vehicles and actively block out sections of light while maintaining full brightness on the surroundings.

 

7. TRIM LEVELS AND EQUIPMENT

Again mirroring those of the XC90, each model of the S90 range is available in three trim grades, each of which offers different levels of style, luxury and value for money. Momentum models, which introduce the range in South Africa, maintain a high level of standard equipment, some of which remains available only as costly optional equipment in rival vehicles in the segment. Inscription models offer a more luxurious look and feel as standard, while forthcoming R-Design models add a sportier, more aggressive aspect to the range. More detail on R-Design variants will be made available at a later date.

A total of 13 exterior colours and 12 interior schemes are available for the new S90.

Standard equipment

Distinguished visually by the piano black radiator grille and round tail pipes, Momentum models set a high standard for the S90 range. Standard exterior equipment includes chrome window detailing, electric folding side mirrors, automatic full-LED headlights with Active Bending and Active High Beam, front LED fog lights, rain-sensing wipers, rear parking sensors and 18-inch alloy wheels. On the inside, standard kit includes full leather upholstery, comfort seat padding, a powered driver’s seat with electric adjustment (including lumbar) and memory, Iron Ore décor inlays, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, the 9-inch Sensus Connect interface, satellite navigation, a 10-speaker high-performance audio system, 2-zone automatic climate control, split-folding rear seats with a ski hatch, mid-level interior illumination, a leather steering wheel with full multifunction support, a leather gear lever, the diamond-cut Drive Mode selector, fully-automatic and laminated windows all-round, metal door sill mouldings, and a 12-volt power socket in the boot.

Even more luxury can be found as standard on Inscription derivatives. Over and above Momentum specification, Inscription models include the chrome-accented front grille with chrome bumper accents and side sill trim, rhombical tail pipes with glossy black bumper detailing, chrome door handle trim and 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, Nappa soft leather upholstery, Metal Mesh décor inlays, a powered passenger seat with memory, power-adjustable side support for both front seats, high-level interior illumination with adjustable ambient colour settings, and illuminated door sill mouldings all feature as standard.

Optional equipment

Designed to enhance standard specification but maintain the value proposition, a host of optional equipment is available either as standalone extras or in carefully constructed and cost-effective packages, from the factory. Highlights include keyless entry and starting, a graphical head-up display, BLIS and CTA, a reversing camera, Park Assist Pilot including front parking sensors for semi-autonomous parallel and perpendicular parking with a Park Out function, the remarkable Visual Park Assist 360-degree HD camera system as first seen in the XC90, tinted glass, side- and rear window sun blinds (electric for the rear window), a leather dashboard and door uppers, 4-zone automatic climate control with touch controls for the rear passengers, CleanZone automatic air quality system, auto-dimming side mirrors, heated front and/or rear seats, massaging front seats, ventilated front seats with perforated Nappa leather, a heated steering wheel, power-folding rear seats, electric folding rear headrests, a 230V power outlet (2-pin), gear shift paddles, a compass, a CD player, Smartphone Integration, an electric boot lid with hands-free opening and closing, integrated child booster seats in the rear, an electric sunroof, air suspension (rear only), and the exceptional 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system also first seen in the XC90.

The latter has been custom-designed for Volvo and features remarkable clarity, bass (thanks to a subwoofer which is integrated into the chassis) and sound reproduction – having been modelled in environments like the Gothenburg Concert Hall in Sweden and London’s Abbey Road Studios. The result of the collaboration between Bowers & Wilkins and Volvo Cars uses a combination of high-performance, low-distortion speaker designs, including extended range aluminium tweeters and Kevlar® midrange units, reflecting components found in Bowers & Wilkins’ award-winning premium loudspeakers. It also features a centre speaker with Bowers & Wilkins tweeter-on-top technology for the first time in a sedan, providing a more open, spacious sound experience.

 

Source: Quickpic