Volvo’s new flagship sedan debuted at the 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Sharing its underpinnings and powertrains with the XC90, the S90 replaces the S80 as the top-of-the-mark Swedish sedan. The aforementioned powertrains include a four-cylinder, a four-cylinder, and a four-cylinder. Starting at the bottom and working our way up, the base engine is the turbo-charged T5 putting out 240 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
We recently tested this engine as it sat in the S60 Cross Country and were quite happy with it. Next in line is the super turbocharged T6, which is good for 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The same T6 can be found in the XC90. Sitting at the top is the T8 Twin Engine, which is a hybrid plug-in powertrain that makes a maximum combined 410 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque. The S90 T8 can be driven in EV, Hybrid, or Power mode. Set the dial to Power mode to squeeze the most out of the engine / electric motor duo.
The S90 pushes the boundaries of semi-autonomous driving with Volvo’s IntelliSafe Assist system as part of a standard package that encompasses adaptive cruise control, Distance Alert, and Pilot Assist. Most notable of the three, Pilot Assist provides “gentle steering input” at speeds up to 80 mph to keep the car aligned with lane markings and does not require a car in front for guidance.
Being a Volvo, expect the S90 interior to not disappoint. Wood trim and matte silver accents flow throughout the cabin, the centerpiece of which is the same vertical touch screen found in the XC90. For those craving a taste of the good life and looking for something a bit unique, the S90 is a good place to start. Look for the vehicle to go on sale in the summer of 2016 with starting price of around $50,000. Until we can bring you video of the new Swedish flagship, check out the First Drive Review of the XC90 below.
