By definition, a sedan has a separate closed boot/trunk, while a fastback is defined by the rear of the car having a single slope from the roof to the tail. In essence then, the new Volvo ES90 is a fastback. But Volvo says, “The ES90 combines the refined elegance of a sedan, the adaptability of a fastback, and the spacious interior and higher ground clearance associated with SUVs. It’s a versatile car that does not compromise on comfort or space.”
But let’s not get lost in the details of what it is, because this is exciting news for those who love sedans, and polar bear-friendly EVs. The ES90 is Volvo’s sixth EV and the very first that takes the form factor of a sedan. It is also the first Volvo EV to feature 800V architecture, which means the battery can be topped off in a jiffy.
Unmistakably A Volvo
Visually, the ES90 is unmistakably a Volvo, with the brand’s signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights leading the charge. At the rear, a fresh take on Volvo’s C-shaped taillights, combined with a striking LED pattern on the rear window, creates an impressive light signature. Buyers can choose between seven exterior colors and four different wheel designs ranging from 20 to 22 inches.
Practicality is a key strength of the Volvo ES90. The large tailgate allows easy access to the spacious 424-litre trunk, which expands to 733 litres with the rear seats folded flat. Even the frunk provides a useful 22 litres of storage, ideal for charging cables or smaller bags.
Tech-Laden Interior
The long 3.1-metre wheelbase translates to exceptional rear legroom. The cabin features premium materials, customizable ambient lighting, and an optional electrochromic panoramic roof that allows users to adjust the transparency of the glass for better UV protection and privacy.
According to Volvo, the ES90 has exceptionally low NVH levels, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system. This top-tier system includes 25 speakers, Dolby Atmos spatial audio, and even a unique mode that simulates the acoustics of London’s iconic Abbey Road Studios. Doesn’t ring a bell? Well, it’s the world’s first recording studio, and legends like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Stevie Wonder, Amy Winehouse, and more have recorded music on its premises!
The 14.5-inch center screen, powered by Volvo’s latest software, provides seamless access to navigation, media, and climate controls, while a new 3D parking camera enhances maneuverability in tight spaces.
Jim Rowan, CEO of Volvo Cars said, “The Volvo ES90 combines our most advanced technologies with Scandinavian design and superior comfort, creating a true premium Volvo car designed to elevate your quality of life. It joins the EX90 SUV as one of our flagship models and cements our position as an industry leader in software-defined cars that harness the power of core computing.”
Cutting-Edge Platform & Electrifying Performance
Underpinning the Volvo ES90 is Volvo’s SPA2 platform, also seen in the Volvo EX90. The ES90 also comes packed with an advanced suite of safety technologies, including a lidar system from Luminar, five radars, seven cameras, and twelve ultrasonic sensors. These features work in harmony to provide industry-leading driver assistance and crash mitigation capabilities.
Performance enthusiasts will find plenty to love in the Volvo ES90’s three powertrain options. The base model features a single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup producing 329hp and 480Nm, achieving a 0-100km/h time of 6.7 seconds. Stepping up to the mid Twin Motor variant brings 442hp and 670Nm, cutting the 0-100km/h sprint to 5.3 seconds. But the real showstopper is the Twin Motor Performance model, which delivers an impressive 670hp and 861Nm, rocketing from 0 to 100kmp/h in just 3.9 seconds.
Fast Charging & Impressive Range
Charging speed is another area where the Volvo ES90 shines. Thanks to its 800V architecture, it supports ultra-fast charging at up to 350kW. This means the dual-motor variants, with their 102.0-kWh battery pack, can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 20 minutes or gain 300 kilometres of range in a mere 10 minutes. The single-motor variant, equipped with an 88.0-kWh battery, supports charging at 300kW, ensuring quick top-ups on long drives. The dual-motor variants feature a claimed range of 700 kilometres on the WLTP cycle. Range anxiety, who?
Availability & UAE Launch
Order books for the Volvo ES90 are now open in select European markets, including Germany, France, the UK, and Sweden, with additional regions, including the UAE, expected to be added later this year. The ES90 will share showroom space with the petrol-powered Volvo S90.
