2024 Volvo S90 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2024 Volvo S90 may lack the pizzazz of better-known rivals, but it has no shortage of comfort and elegance that make it one of today's top luxury sedans. Volvo is among the few automakers still committed to sedans (and, nobly, sport wagons) and the flagship S90 makes a compelling alternative to SUVs — even to Volvo's very good XC series — with its seating for five, acres of legroom, advanced driver aids and cool, modern take on luxury. The S90 also stands out as one of the only big sedans with a rechargeable plug-in model. If you prefer pleasantries to outright performance, the S90 deserves a close look.

In the world of European luxury, Volvo sets its own pace. The S90 sedan isn't particularly athletic or visceral like its Audi or BMW competitors, and its soft suspension and steering feel won't inspire imaginary racetrack heroics. Instead, the S90 is all about interior quality and refinement, its cabin trimmed in soft leather, wood and textured metal and with some of the most comfortable seats you'll find in any car. And with the S90's extra length — 4 to 6 inches longer than most rivals, but about a foot shorter than luxury full-sizers like the BMW 7 Series — there's ample room to stretch out. The S90's most distinguishing feature, however, might be its plug-in hybrid Recharge version. With 38 miles of electric range, more than 450 horsepower and a 0-60 mph sprint in 4.6 seconds, the Recharge infuses the lineup with some much-needed vigor. So far, only BMW offers a plug-in answer to the Volvo, with the forthcoming 550e set to replace the outgoing 530e.

Buyers looking for midsize luxury have options. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is our top-rated pick for its smooth ride and refined interior, qualities also shared with the Volvo. But the Benz's more responsive handling and seamless power give it an edge on the S90. The BMW 5 Series and Audi A6 and A7 sedans also offer more vibrant dynamic ability. Other rivals such as the Cadillac CT5, Genesis G80 and Lexus ES deliver similar features and polish and similarly sedate performance. The S90 Recharge stands almost alone, however. The forthcoming BMW 550e is the only other luxury midsize plug-in hybrid. It will replace the current 530e model with performance that more closely matches the S90: 483 hp and around 40 miles of electric range.

Although the base model S90 Plus offers plenty of standard equipment, we think the relatively small jump to the S90 Ultimate is worth it. A hands-free power trunklid, ventilated front seats with memory settings, and an upgraded audio system are worthy upgrades to the daily drive, while premium leather and nicer interior materials (crystal glass shifter, wrapped soft-touch panels) are indulgences that also make the Ultimate a good value. We'd also try to stretch for the S90 Recharge model for its extra power, electric range and impressive fuel efficiency: 74 mpge and 31 mpg during regular gas-engine operation.