2020 Volvo S90 Review

Name: 2020 Volvo S90 Review
Brand: Volvo
Rating: 3.9 (50 reviews)

Price: $24,990

2020 Volvo S90 T6 Inscription Sedan Exterior Shown

+53

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$26,022 avg. price

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Appraise My 2020 Volvo S90

Volvo S90 model years

Volvo S90 for Sale

Volvo S90 types

Sedan
Plug-in Hybrid

2020 Volvo S90 Review

by Cameron Rogers^{Manager, News
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).}

Pros

Seat comfort is among the best in the class
Impressive interior materials throughout the cabin
Comes standard with a wide array of convenience and safety features
Costs less than the German competition

Cons

Rough ride when equipped with optional wheels
Steering is on the heavy side

What's new

Base T5 engine dropped
New R-Design trim
Leather upholstery, front parking sensors and rear cross-traffic alert now standard
Part of the second S90 generation introduced for 2017

Overview

Many shoppers focus on popular German models when shopping for a midsize luxury sedan and then call it a day. But they are doing themselves a disservice as there are a few gems in the class that are less expensive but just as impressive. Take the 2020 Volvo S90, for instance.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale nearby

19 listings

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2020 Volvo S90
T8 R-Design Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid Sedan
$31,995
- 47,692 miles
- 1 accident, 2 owners, personal use
- 4cyl automatic
- Auto Lenders of Egg Harbor Township (157 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Egg Harbor, NJ
CertificationThis Auto Lenders Safe & Value 2020 Volvo S90 has passed a rigorous mechanical inspection. All Auto Lenders Safe & Value cars are guarant...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
30 Combined MPG (28 City/31 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: LVYBR0AT0LP153361
Stock: LP153361
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 03-20-2025
Price Drop
2020 Volvo S90
T6 Inscription Sedan
$23,995
- 62,299 miles
- 1 accident, 1 owner, personal use
- 4cyl automatic
- Smythe Volvo Cars (202 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in Summit, NJ
360 Surround View Camera, Advanced Package, Charcoal Headliner, Full LED Headlights w/Active Bending Lights (ABL), Graphical Head-Up Display (HUD), He...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (21 City/31 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: LVYA22ML0LP175559
Stock: 41321
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 01-30-2025

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Though we think the Volvo S90's exterior styling is one of its most appealing attributes, the cockpit deserves praise, too. The design is simple yet elegant, with ample use of leather, chrome and wood trim. Limited use of hard plastics gives the cabin an impression of quality that is in line with more expensive competitors.

The price differential is much wider when you consider the Volvo's standard turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine. Though not quite as powerful as the turbo six-cylinders in competitors, this unusual engine produces plenty of thrust and propels the S90 to highway speeds in no time. There's even a high-performance plug-in hybrid that increases power considerably while returning better fuel economy and an electric-only range of 21 miles.

While the Volvo S90 has plenty going for it, there are a few drawbacks. It doesn't feel as sporty as others — the steering is heavy but not particularly sharp, and you can feel the weight of the car transferring as you drive it quickly around corners. Even with the optional air suspension, larger wheels translate to jostling while traveling on broken pavement. Finally, tall rear passengers might rub heads against the downward sloping roof. Overall, though, we think you'll be quite pleased with Volvo's S90.

Which S90 does Edmunds recommend?

If the price differential were tighter, we'd probably recommend the Momentum because it comes loaded with so many features. But the R-Design and the Inscription — which carry the same MSRP — are only a few thousand dollars more and add a ton of luxury upgrades. Which one is better is mostly a matter of personal taste. The R-Design adds black exterior trim and a few sporty touches, while the Inscription has chrome trim and extra amenities.

Compare 2020 Volvo S90 trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

2020 Volvo S90 models

The 2020 Volvo S90 is a luxury midsize sedan offered in Momentum, R-Design and Inscription trim levels. The Momentum is well-equipped for a base-level sedan, with features that include LED lights, keyless entry, leather upholstery, and a slew of driving aids. The trim structure then branches to the sporty R-Design and the luxurious Inscription, both of which offer more features than the Momentum.

All three trims come standard with the T6 powertrain, which features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is both supercharged and turbocharged. It produces a healthy 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque; power is routed to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The R-Design and the Inscription are also available with the plug-in hybrid T8, which adds an 87-hp electric motor to the T6 engine for a combined output of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft.

Standard features for the Momentum include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and leather upholstery. On the technology front, you also get Volvo On Call remote features, a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system, and a 10-speaker audio system. A suite of advanced driver safety aids also comes standard.

The R-Design looks a little sportier, while the Inscription has a few trim and styling details to make it seem more luxurious. With these two versions you also get four-zone climate control, upgraded front seats, upgraded leather upholstery, and a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

A few other optional features are available for the S90, including a head-up display, a 360-degree parking camera, massaging front seats, heated and ventilated rear seats, an adaptive air suspension, and a Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system (R-Design and Inscription only).

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 Volvo S90 T6 Momentum 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.79 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$186/mo

$189/mo

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Volvo S90 Reviews

Owner Reviews

3.9

50 reviews

5(44%)

4(28%)

3(12%)

2(6%)

1(10%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

It’s a BIG and Plush vehicle. +1, 2, & 6 years in!

Howie K, 06/06/2019

2019 Volvo S90 T5 Momentum 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)

I generally favor sportier cars, but now I am driving a Volvo S90 T5 which I got at a lease price that I could not refuse! [Actually less per month that my former Infiniti Q50.] So I will say I got a lot of bang for the buck. This is a luxury car that one would not mind being chauffeured in. The rear passenger area is HUGE and comfortable. I can finally sit in front passenger seat … and not even have to think about adjusting the seat for rear passages leg room. The Driver’s seat is very pleasant for sitting and was designed by a Orthopedist. The package came with a Blonde (white) interior which (needs occasional cleaning), is wonderful and elegant. I would say it is the most nicely appointed car I ever owned. (And I have and had several MB and BMWs). The Tech is amazing! Though sometimes touch screen is a bit overwhelming. The great thing is that you can put the car on Auto Assist Pilot, play with it without worrying about hitting anything on the road. (PS I do not support being a distractive driver, but this practically eliminates it under the right conditions. Always be alert). The Auto Assist Pilot is from the future. It is not quite at Tesla level, but does much to keep you very safe while also removing the the tedium of Stop and Go traffic. Driving is now an ‘AHHH”. (My insurance rates actually went down when ordering this car.). It is a wonderfully solid vehicle. I will lend this Car to anyone of my family and know they will be safe in it. Gotta love that Swedish engineering. The trade off is the sporty feel of performance. The Volvo is powerful for a 4 cylinder, and I get 25.5 mpg. (Again better than my past Infinity). 0-60 is quite good for a car this size, but you do lose the ‘feel’ of lungeing acceleration. (But you can use electronic options). It is a great luxury (family) car before it is a sports car. The ride is firm as you ‘float’ over the road. It’s very nice and quiet. Long trips are a pleasure. All in all, it is a car to enjoy the ride in. If you can get great deal on this extremely plush car, don’t hesitate. (P.S. also drove the Volvo S60 for the while. The ride and feel of the S90 is much better). {A buying note: Volvo pricing is company set and it is difficult to negotiate a lower price When visiting other dealers. There is not much wiggle room so choose the dealership with the best service.} 1 Year Later - still the most comfortable car I ever owned. A pleasure to take a ride in for long road trips. Pros: Orthopedically Seats 5 w/ enough backseat legroom to play football in. No more squishing upfront seat to allow backseat room. Trunk is large doesn’t seem to be. I guess it is the awkward design. Low but deep. I Love how in winter seats & steering wheel heat up to settings automatically when temp is below 40 degrees. 3 individual temp settings (not even my son’s Tesla S has that.). The Swedes made it solid and sure foot in harsh weather. It is my go-to car in snow and slush. Much better handling than my wife’s Mercedes C Class (which isn’t bad). This car is tank-like sturdy. An idiot SUV driver already backed into my rear fender in a parking lot, and l had no major damage. Have no doubt it will do a great job protecting passengers and family in a crash. (HF). Con: I still find the screen controls cumbersome and confusing. The car has only driver 1 USB, so had to plug in a hub to use both phone and SD music card (no biggie). I have found that the autopilot is not perfect. It will veer of the road (not follow the road lines in certain situations, [with steep curves in road at higher speeds) so keep you hands on the wheel and pay some attention, [so NO napping!], but it is still a great feature 90% of the time.. But Is still a pleasure to take the stress out of everyday driving. Still love this car as the next evolution in driving. TWO YEARS IN; Still enjoying the ride. Still a very comfortable, plush and quiet car to drive. Volvo has engineered a great car. Some of the Lux tech is great. ex- I can preset the the temperature (like an alarm clock) so I can enter the car at my preferred climate for trips to and from work. However, center panel navi-entertainment system gets a bit tiresome. Not simple to operate. And the Nav system itself, while 98% accurate most of the time. Does not adjust best route for traffic & other delays. I miss my old Garmin made system (ie-MB). However, I do enjoy the S90’s ride. 6 years in- Still a great car! But some Cons: Low maintenance, except the tires have tendency to bubble. (Replaced 2). I am tired of Nav system, Voice loading is 85% wrong most of the time. No HD traffic updates either. Volvo has a very expensive annual app renewal cost. Strangely the rear windshield rubber gaskets have started to disintegrate (but no leaks yet). Got a rear end ram by a ‘distracted’ (texting) driver, but no harm to me thanks to the safety features. {$7500 in damages though. And the shop could get the Collision avoidance sensor system to work right again, but eventually Volvo fixed it. But still over all love the car.

The UnCola of luxury cars

Rabbi Mitch, 08/23/2018

2018 Volvo S90 T6 Momentum 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger 8A)

I have had my S90 for one month and couldn’t be happier with every moment of my experience. After testing other marquis brands, the S90 was suggested and my search was over. It glides under the radar, yet is sleek, luxurious, quiet, powerful and beyond comfortable. It is a drivers car in that I need to participate and I like that. Give it a shot and move over to the UnCola side of life. …

8 pluses, 1 minus

Catbert, 08/17/2018

2018 Volvo S90 T5 Momentum 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)

The S90 is a beautiful car. The proportions are perfect, and the styling is classic. The interior is the best place to be of any of the 50 plus cars I’ve owned. The aesthetics are perfect. The performance of my T5 AWD is what I expected, not a killer, for sure. I knew that going in, and if performance with a capital P was totally important, I would have sprung for the T6. My …

Like it

Diane, 06/23/2019

2018 Volvo S90 T6 Inscription 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger 8A)

Updated 6/23/21: I have now owned my S90 for 3 years. This is the second Volvo I've owned, prior to this I owned a XC60. I have owned a Mercedes diesel sedan and a Lexus SC400. The S90 has most of the bells & whistles because there weren't many cars to choose from on the lot. I love how roomy it is and the leather seats. Favorite feature is the heads up display. I'm looking to buy …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Volvo S90, so we've included reviews for other years of the S90 since its last redesign.

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2020 S90 Highlights

Type:

Sedan

Trim:

T6 Momentum

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$50,550
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	25 MPG
Cost to Drive	$186/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	13.5 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the S90 models:

Pilot Assist: Maintains a gap between the S90 and the car in front and keeps the S90 in its lane, giving the driver an additional layer of safety.
Blind Spot Information System: Notifies the driver if a car is lurking in the blind spot as well as if cars are approaching from the sides when backing up.
Low & High Speed Collision Mitigation: Warns the driver if a front collision is imminent and applies the brakes if no action is taken.

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2020 Volvo S90 Review

Price & Payment

2020 Volvo S90 Review

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