2022 Volvo S90

The 2022 Volvo S90 might bring in some exciting changes and upgrades, but it should continue with the same, three distinctive trim level offerings, namely: Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription. 

With the new B6 engine we expect a change in the prices across the trim levels. However, we expect Volvo to remain similar in terms of its features with a few additions like Android Auto and USB Type-C connection options. 

The base trim kicks in with a plethora of standard features highlighting adaptive LED headlights, digital instrument display, a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto smartphone integration, integrated navigation system, a 10-speaker audio system, front and rear USB-C ports, wireless charging station, heated front seats, leather upholstery, Volvo On Call (remote connectivity features) and a panoramic sunroof. It also packs a wide suite of driving assistance aids as standard.

The Inscription adds some sporty styling cues along with a leather sport steering wheel, four-way power lumbar support, premium leather upholstery, four-zone automatic climate control, a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and power window curtains.

In the end, the range-topping specs flourish the cabin with wood interior trim, perforated and ventilated front seats, and power-adjustable side supports. In addition to the above three trims, there are some additional packages to choose from, adding more creature comforts.

Which trim should you buy?

The top-spec Inscription looks worth the price since the Volvo S90 gets fully loaded with luxurious materials and advanced tech bits. If you are looking for an unmatched lounge-like experience, get the Lounge pack that would add massaging and ventilated function to the rear

Release Date

Volvo has not officially announced the release date for its S90 sedan. In the absence of an expected timeline, we anticipate the vehicle to be available in the market for sale by the end of 2021 or early 2022.

For the 2022 Volvo S90, the Swedish automaker replaces the T6 with the B6 mild powertrain. In layman terms, the B6 builds on the previous T6 powertrain, which features a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0L Inline-4 engine, but also adds a 48V mild-hybrid electrical system to improve performance and efficiency. Altogether, we expect the power and torque outputs to be rated 295-hp, 310 lb-ft, respectively. The S90 carries over the all-wheel-drive system and the smooth 8-speed automatic transmission.

With changes to the powertrain, it’s tough to predict the nature, but since Volvo has been renowned for engine refinement and linear power delivery, the powertrain upgrades are expected to carry forward the same traits. But since it gets a hybrid addition, the accelerations are expected to be brisker. While the performance potential of this new system has not yet been ascertained, we expect it to deliver a performance of similar levels as the current MY, which is to say that a 0-60mph timing of 5.6 seconds is both possible and plausible. 

The new powertrain setup of the 2022 Volvo S90 is expected to shrink the horsepower, yet it still makes the BMW and Mercedes-Benz rivals feel underwhelming in terms of both power and hasty sprint. The 2022 Jaguar XF boasts the most powerful, yet ranks as the slowest one in the rivalry lot taking 6.3 seconds to the 60mph mark. The quarter-mile timings of 13 seconds are similar for both the BMW and Jaguar and despite a mild-hybrid assist to supplement its brute capabilities, the 2022 E-Class remains the slowest in this feat. 

The 2022 S90 will feature a 48V mild-hybrid system giving the company the turbocharged 2.0L 4-pot banger. The addition is expected to complement the economy, but the changes won’t be drastic, as the EPA estimates earned by the 2022 S90 are 23/31 MPG in city/highway with a combined mileage of 26 MPG, while the current model year is tagged with 21/32 MPG EPA estimates. The 15.9-gallon fuel tank will be carried over, unchanged for the 2022 model year.

Despite the tweaks, the S90 can’t match the brilliant fuel economy of the BMW 530i, but it did get closer to the Jaguar XF rival. Amongst these, the Mercedes-Benz appears to be the least efficient averaging 22 MPG and with its smallish fuel tank, it also manages the least range of 382 miles. Both the BMW and Jaguar that lead the segment in terms of efficiency also get highly voluminous tanks of 18 and 19.5-gallons, respectively, that bestow a combined range of almost 500 miles.

The interiors of the 2022 Volvo S90 remain unchanged; striking and prepossessing as ever. The extravagant and luxurious interiors of the S90 are inspired by the Scandinavian design language. Even with its base variant, the sedan feels upmarket and plush especially when the interiors are wrapped in white, showcasing a subtle and clean nature. In the upper trims, the cabin is flourished with upgraded Nappa leather upholstery and wood trim garnishing the cabin.

The cabin is spacious and roomy, enough that it can seat five passengers with ease but for the best experience seat four. The supple ride quality and solace of the interiors are excellent. The materials are top-notch and the seating ergonomics are pleasing. The seats are nicely bolstered and in the rear too. 

There’s ample headroom and legroom in both rows. But the transmission tunnel in the rear reduces foot room. The practicality is maintained with a 13.9 cubic feet cargo space in the rear, and the 60/40 split-folding rear seat capabilities.

Even though there are no changes to the interiors, the cabin 2022 Volvo S90 remains one of the most refined spaces in the class. The cabin is spacious and also functional, decorated with fine materials and smooth surfaces. The rivals are opulent to the same degree, but the S90’s cabin looks more desirable. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class interiors highlight eye-sparkling ambient lighting. The BMW 530i and Jaguar XF also sport luxuriant cabins but fail to match Volvo’s finesse. 

In terms of space and comfort, all sedans have a standard seating capacity of five passengers. However, each competitor has a smaller cabin with compact dimensions that do not cut in cargo space. Both the BMW and Jaguar have higher trunk volumes of 18.7 and 17.8 cu.-ft, respectively. But like every other aspect, the 2022 E-Class continues to lurk at the bottom of the table. 

Some of the standout interior features are as follows:

• Heated front seats
• Leather upholstery
• Panoramic sunroof
• Premium leather upholstery
• Four-zone automatic climate control
• Optional massaging front seats, ventilated rear seats

What’s there to keep you entertained?

There are some additions and deletions in the infotainment section. To start with, the 2022 Volvo S90 removes the built-in compass, Wi-Fi hotspot, HD radio from the standard feature list. But the system will now add Android Auto capability. The old and outdated USB type-A ports will be swapped with trendy Type-C ports.

Besides the above tweaks, the infotainment system remains unchanged, hence the cabin will still feature a 12.3-inch gauge cluster display and 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system controls a majority of the functional, even creature comforts like heated seat function. As optional, buyers can also opt for a 14-speaker Harman Kardon and 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound systems. Some of the standout infotainment features include:

• 10-speaker sound system
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio
• Satellite Navigation
• AM/FM Stereo
• Voice Activated Controls

The 2022 Volvo S90 would seek no changes to the exteriors, which means, the shiny and clean sheet metal exteriors will be carried over. The luxurious and appealing exterior design is admired for the subtle and simplistic styling cues, yet the S90 has an impeccable presence on whatever roads it rolls out on. 

The Thor-hammer-shaped LED DRLs, chrome grille, and sleek headlights give out a smart and sophisticated attire. The rectangular C-shaped rear LED taillamps also empower the S90 with a sophisticated and premium look. It is the subtlety in its design that helps Volvo to stand out from the crowd of fierce and sportier sedans. There is an abundant use of chrome to extend the idea of plushness and with long-flowing lines, the design does look minimalistic. 

Picking one of these four premium luxury midsize sedans based on their looks is a tough, head-scratching punishment. Each of them can turn heads, attract eyeballs and make a brilliant first impression. 

Figuratively, the S90 weighs 4597 lbs and is the heftiest. It also stretches long, with a larger wheelbase of 120.5 inches as compared to the rivals. It sports the best-in-class ground clearance of 6 inches and is closely followed by the BMW 5-Series. The Jaguar XF and Mercedes-Benz E-Class are shorter options, but the former is the widest sedan measuring 78.2 inches, which allows it to grant additional space on the inside. 

Some of the standout exterior features are as follows:

• Adaptive LED headlights
• Thor-hammer shaped LED DRLs
• C-shaped tail lights
• Revised grille design
• Fog Lamps 
• Panoramic Sunroof

Volvo as a brand has always been revered for being strict on safety standards, the 2022 Volvo S90 would be inspected and delivered on the same strict standards. Though there are no safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, rest assured that the top-notch safety equipment that the sedan gets equipped with will help in both crash avoidance and mitigation. The safety feature list of the midsize luxury sedan would equip:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Collision mitigation support
• Blind-spot Information system with 
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Hill-start assist
• Emergency Brake Assist

2022 Volvo S90 vs 2022 BMW 530i

The S90 gives a neck and neck rivalry to the BMW 530i in terms of engaging driving dynamics, plush interiors, and attractive looks. But the S90 packs more power and grunt. It feels upmarket and with lower sales volume than its competitor, it has a factor of exclusivity to its name.

However, in terms of pure performance and driving pleasure, there is no denying that the 530i offers better fuel economy, balancing power, and agility, making it a practical and viable proposition.  

2022 Volvo S90 vs 2022 Jaguar XF P300

The British luxury marque’s Jaguar XF is a great pick in its class, featuring an aggressive front fascia and stunning interiors.

It is a tad bit more powerful than the S90, but the hefty curb weight makes it sluggish as compared to the rivals. Both luxury midsize sedans are enjoyable and engaging and offer plush cabin ambiance. But the Volvo S90 gets an edge with better cabin space and fuel economy.

2022 Volvo S90 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz E 350

The S90 has unmatched beauty and looks vivacious when it comes to the exteriors, which are comparatively more elegant than the Merc. The Mercedes-Benz E 350 offers a high-tech cabin, with premium material choice, and a potent engine but it lacks the efficiency that Volvo boasts.

By gaining ascendancy in a few aspects, the S90 might seem to be the better option, but it’s the choice of the buyer, since both these luxury midsize sedans are influential picks in this class.

To conclude, the 2022 Volvo S90 brings significant changes like the powertrain upgrade and the addition of Android Auto, and the response of the consumers is awaited. However, the S90 remains a potent competition to the likes of the BMW 530i, Mercedes-Benz E 350, and Jaguar XF. 

With impressive power, handling, and racy acceleration, the S90 keeps the driver curious. It continues to be an upmarket choice that commands an unmatched stature in the segment and feels luxuriously appointed. The Volvo S90 continues to equip advanced safety and driver-assist aids, making it a safe and reliable car.