2021 Volvo S90 Review

Name: 2021 Volvo S90
Brand: Volvo
Price: 22117 USD

Price Estimate: $22,117 - $25,551

2021 Volvo S90 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T8 Inscription Sedan Exterior Shown

Great

8.1

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Like so many Volvos before it, the 2021 S90 Recharge is cooly understated. It's powerful and fuel-efficient, but its clean design doesn't advertise its performance or eco credentials. It's also spacious and comfortable, with a handsome interior and much-improved ride. The picture looks even better when you consider the long list of standard features and driver aids, most of which can't be had on any rival at this price.

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Average price: $27,325

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Appraise My 2021 Volvo S90

Volvo S90 model years

Volvo S90 for Sale

Volvo S90 types

Sedan
Plug-in Hybrid

Pros

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

Cons

Ride can be a little too firm in S90 equipped with optional wheels
Steering is on the heavy side
Touchscreen-dependent controls aren't very user-friendly

What's new

Minor exterior styling revisions
New upgraded Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system
New wireless charging pad and rear USB ports
Part of the second S90 generation introduced for 2017

Overview

Written by automotive expert Ryan ZumMallen

Updated: 2/17/2021

The Volvo S90 is a take on the classic midsize luxury sedan with a few distinctly Volvo twists: sleek Scandinavian design, excellent seat comfort and an emphasis on safety features. For 2021, the S90 is slightly refreshed to keep it competitive with heavy hitters such as the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Volvo altered its look, included new standard features, and added an optional Bowers & Wilkins stereo with stunning acoustics.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

3 listings

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2021 Volvo S90
T6 Momentum Sedan
$26,050
- 77,689 miles
- 21 City / 32 Hwy MPG
- 119 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in West Chester, PA
This Volvo S90 has a dependable Turbo/Supercharger Premium Unleaded I-4 2.0 L/120 engine powering this Automatic transmission. Wireless Phone Connecti...
Vehicle History:
No accidents, 4 owners, rental vehicle
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (21 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
LVYA22MK9MP196127
Stock:
P196127
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
05-28-2026
2021 Volvo S90
T6 Inscription Sedan
$29,899
- 39,364 miles
- 21 City / 32 Hwy MPG
- 332 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in Spruce Pine, NC
Vehicle History:
No accidents, 2 owners, rental vehicle
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (21 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
LVYA22ML1MP195255
Stock:
G161061A
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
12-24-2025

See all for sale

The S90 also returns with its innovative powertrain: a small four-cylinder engine that is both turbocharged and supercharged, along with an optional plug-in hybrid. That version is called the Recharge and we've been impressed with its efficiency and smooth operation in other Volvo models. Altogether, the S90 is an example of Volvo's willingness to go against the grain and try something new. While it can't quite match the supreme polish of the E-Class or the tech-heavy vibe of the A6, the S90 is nonetheless an appealing choice for a roomy and classy luxury sedan. Check out the categories of our Expert Rating below to learn more.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Great

8.1

out of 10

We drove the 2021 Volvo S90 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

8/10

How does the S90 drive? The Volvo S90 Recharge uses a plug-in hybrid powertrain, meaning there's both a gasoline engine and a battery pack that allows for an estimated 21 miles of all-electric range. That combination provides a generous amount of power. Acceleration is quick and relatively smooth, and there's plenty of power for passing on the highway, though it sometimes takes the transmission a second to kick down a gear. The brakes are a huge improvement over those on the last plug-in S90. It's easy to come to a smooth stop, and the brakes are strong enough to give you confidence in panic situations.

This isn't a sport sedan, but the S90 Recharge feels composed on winding roads. The steering lacks road feel but is light and direct, which helps make parking a breeze too.

Comfort

8.5/10

How comfortable is the S90? When the S90 debuted a few years back, it lacked the polish of its German rivals. That's changed. While Volvo hasn't given the S90 Recharge a wholesale redesign, it's done a lot to improve refinement. It no longer crashes over bumps or potholes. It's still not quite as insulating as some other luxury cars, but bumps in the road are muted rather than amplified.

It helps that Volvo's seats remain some of the best around. Soft but supportive padding is wrapped in great-feeling leather. There's a good bit of adjustment, and the S90 Recharge is available with heated and ventilated seats both front and rear. The controls for the climate control can be frustrating since they're located in the touchscreen, but the system works quickly and quietly.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? The S90 Recharge splits the difference in size between mid- and full-size luxury cars. There's acres of rear seat room, with plenty of space for passengers well over 6 feet tall to stretch out. Headroom is equally ample, helped by the bucket-style seats. The low seats make getting in and out a bit of a climb, but the large doors mean it's easy to swing your legs in. It's not difficult to find a relaxed, comfortable driving position that places most controls within reach. Visibility is generally good too, though the rear window is a bit narrow.

It's not all perfect. Volvo's user interface continues to frustrate. While the audio controls have fixed buttons for volume and track, most other settings, from the navigation to climate control, are tied to the touchscreen, and it's not always easy to figure out where stuff is located.

Technology

8/10

How’s the tech? The S90 Recharge is loaded with just about all of the tech and driver aids we expect from a modern luxury car. Volvo has always focused on safety, and the S90 comes with a good suite of driver aids such as blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking as standard equipment. The suite is not as refined as some we've experienced, but it wasn't throwing up any red flags either.

The navigation is cumbersome to use and only encourages you to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, both of which are standard. The S90 Recharge comes with four USB ports plus 12-volt outlets, so there's no shortage of places to charge. One high note is the excellent audio system. It's clear and loud, but it doesn't get buzzy or mushy when pushed.

Storage

7.5/10

How’s the storage? The S90 Recharge might have more passenger space than its rivals, but it falls short when it comes to cargo space. The 13.5-cubic-foot trunk is one of the smallest in the class, but the space itself is wide and low, so you can utilize what's available. The rear seats do fold down in a 60/40 split, which helps open up the rear at the cost of a seat or two. Storage up front isn't great either. The center console is shallow and can't even fit a pair of sunglasses. The door pockets are fine but don't fully make up for the lack of storage elsewhere.

Getting a car seat in and out is a much easier task. You'll have plenty of space to move around while installing or removing a seat. Anchors are easily accessible, and the copious legroom is a boon for rear-facing seats.

Fuel Economy

8.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The S90 Recharge has an EPA-estimated electric range of 21 miles. Once the battery runs out of juice, the EPA estimates 30 mpg for both city and highway. On our 115-mile test loop, we saw just 19 miles of electric range but averaged 37 mpg over the entire drive.

Value

8.5/10

Is the S90 a good value? The S90 Recharge really shines here. It offers more passenger room, more standard features and far more power than any rival at its price. The gap increases when you stack it up against some plug-in hybrid SUVS. And it's not like Volvo was cutting corners elsewhere. The interior is handsome and clean, with excellent wood and leather trim and interesting touches such as the crystal shift knob in the Inscription trim.

Volvo offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty. Additionally, Volvo includes four years/unlimited miles of roadside assistance and three years/36,000 miles of free maintenance. That's as good as or better than coverage offered on just about every other plug-in hybrid around.

Wildcard

8.5/10

This Swede oozes cool charm. The S90 Recharge's combined output of the turbocharged and supercharged inline-four and the electric motor is an impressive 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque. The fact that it's wrapped is such a clean and conservative design makes it a bit of a sleeper. It's not the most engaging or athletic luxury car on the road, but it's far from boring. It stands out without standing out.

2021 Volvo S90 trim level differences

The Volvo S90 is a midsize luxury sedan with seating for up to five passengers. It comes in three trims: Momentum, R-Design and Inscription. Each one is equipped with the same standard powertrain, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (316 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque) that's both turbocharged and supercharged. Compare the 2021 Volvo S90 trim levels in-depth.

Which S90 trim does Edmunds recommend?

Our choice, in terms of both style and standard features, is the R-Design trim. Its exterior look and a number of luxurious upgrades elevate the S90 to a truly unique sedan. Perhaps just as important, choosing the R-Design also unlocks the Recharge powertrain with electric motors and 21 miles of EV-only range. We've found it very impressive in other Volvo models.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$234/mo

$252/mo

Avg. Large Car

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Reliability

The 2021 Volvo S90 has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

2 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 25V179000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: R10312
Manufactured from:: 2019-06-04 to 2021-11-29
Number of vehicles affected:: 7483
Defect Description:: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2020-2021 S90, 2020-2022 S60, V60, XC60, XC90, and 2022 V90 plug-in hybrid vehicles. The high-voltage battery may experience a short circuit within the battery module when the battery is fully charged and the vehicle is parked.
Defect Consequence:: A short circuit in a high-voltage battery increases the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Owners are advised not to charge their vehicles until the remedy has been completed. Dealers will inspect and replace the high-voltage battery module as necessary. In addition, dealers will update the software to monitor the battery. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 28, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10312.

Recall Number:: 21V716000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: R10120
Number of vehicles affected:: 9
Defect Description:: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 S90L, 2020-2021 XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An improperly welded rotor and shaft may separate within the integrated brake system.
Defect Consequence:: Separation of the rotor and shaft may cause a reduction in braking assistance and a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the hydraulic unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 22, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10120.

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / unlimited miles
Free maintenance Warranty: 3 years / 30,000 miles

Volvo S90 Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.0

55 reviews

5(47%)

4(25%)

3(13%)

2(6%)

1(9%)

See all 55 reviews of the Volvo S90

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

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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. …

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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 …

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 …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2021 Volvo S90, so we've included reviews for other years of the S90 since its last redesign.

2021 S90 Features & Specs

Type:

Sedan

Trim:

T6 Momentum

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$51,550
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	25 MPG
Cost to Drive	$234/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 added 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.

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