Overview

The Volvo S90, introduced for the 2017 model year, represents the brand’s return to the premium executive sedan segment. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the S90 replaced the aging S80 and established a new design language for the Swedish manufacturer. Its aesthetic is defined by the “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlight signature, a concave grille, and a clean, minimalist interior that emphasizes Scandinavian luxury through the use of authentic wood, leather, and metal accents.

Positioned as a direct competitor to established German rivals, the S90 prioritizes comfort, safety, and interior ergonomics over aggressive track performance. The vehicle was manufactured in Daqing, China, for the global market, marking a significant move in Volvo’s production strategy under Geely ownership. Throughout its 2017–2019 production run, the S90 featured a range of 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines, utilizing turbocharging and supercharging to achieve power outputs traditionally associated with larger displacement engines.

The S90 is recognized for its comprehensive suite of standard safety technology, including Pilot Assist, which provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities on highways. By focusing on a serene cabin environment and high-quality materials, the S90 carved out a niche for buyers seeking an alternative to the ubiquity of the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Its legacy remains tied to the successful modernization of Volvo’s sedan lineup and the establishment of the SPA platform as the foundation for the company’s subsequent growth.

Vehicle Overview
Brand Volvo
Model S90 FWD
Model Year 2017-2019
Generation 2nd Generation
Trim T5
Body Style 4-Door Sedan
Vehicle Segment Executive Car
Vehicle Class Midsize Cars
Market USA
Platform SPA (Scalable Product Architecture)
Assembly Plant Daqing, China
Country of Origin China
Production Start 2016
Production End
VIN Identifier YV1
Base MSRP $48,100
Destination Charge $995
Total MSRP $49,095
Powertrain
Powertrain Type Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family Volvo VEA (Volvo Engine Architecture)
Engine Name T5
Engine Code B4204T23
Engine Configuration Inline-4
Displacement 2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke 82.0 mm x 93.2 mm
Compression Ratio 10.8:1
Aspiration Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery Direct Injection
Valve Train DOHC 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity 5.9 quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity 0W-20
Horsepower 250 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque 258 lb-ft @ 1,500 rpm
Redline 6,500 rpm
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission Automatic (S8)
Final Drive Ratio 3.33:1
Axle Ratio
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane 91
EPA City MPG 23
EPA Highway MPG 34
EPA Combined MPG 27
Fuel Economy (L/100 km) 8.7
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) 14.5
Estimated Driving Range 493 miles
Annual Fuel Cost $1,850
CO₂ Emissions 328 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score 5
Smog Rating 5
Performance
0-30 mph 2.6 seconds
0-60 mph 6.5 seconds
0-100 mph 16.2 seconds
Quarter Mile 14.9 seconds
Top Speed 130 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph) 118 ft
Lateral Acceleration 0.86g
Power-to-Weight Ratio 0.06 hp/lb
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in) 195.4
Width (Without Mirrors) (in) 74.0
Width (With Mirrors) (in) 79.5
Height (in) 56.8
Wheelbase (in) 115.8
Front Track (in) 64.0
Rear Track (in) 64.0
Ground Clearance (in) 6.0
Curb Weight (lbs) 3,770
GVWR (lbs) 4,960
Towing Capacity (lbs)
Payload Capacity (lbs) 1,190
Passenger Volume (cu ft) 99.0
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) 13.5
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)
Turning Circle 38.7 ft
Approach Angle
Departure Angle
Breakover Angle
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash 5 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash 5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover 4 Stars
IIHS Award Top Safety Pick+
Small Overlap Front Good
Moderate Overlap Front Good
Side Impact Good
Headlights Rating Good
Front Crash Prevention Superior
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display 9.0-inch Sensus Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster 12.3-inch Digital Display
Apple CarPlay Standard
Android Auto Standard
Navigation System Standard
Audio System 10-speaker High Performance
Speaker Count 10
Wireless Charging
Wi-Fi Hotspot Standard
OTA Updates Limited
Digital Key
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty 4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty 4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty 12 years / Unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance 4 years / Unlimited miles
Complimentary Maintenance 3 years / 36,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant Skövde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier Aisin
Gear Ratios 1st: 5.25, 2nd: 3.03, 3rd: 1.95, 4th: 1.46, 5th: 1.22, 6th: 1.00, 7th: 0.81, 8th: 0.67
Differential Type Open
Cooling System Capacity 8.5 quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs) 165
Safety Recall Count
Production Volume
Units Sold in USA

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2017-2019 Volvo S90 is widely regarded as a sophisticated, design-forward choice in the used luxury market, offering a distinct departure from the sport-oriented dynamics of its rivals. Reliability is generally consistent with modern European luxury standards, though prospective buyers should be aware of potential software glitches related to the Sensus infotainment system and occasional issues with the complex 2.0-liter turbocharged engine’s auxiliary systems. The S90’s primary appeal lies in its exceptional seat comfort, high-end interior materials, and industry-leading safety features, which remain competitive even by current standards. While depreciation has been steeper than some Japanese competitors, this trend makes the S90 an attractive value proposition for those prioritizing cabin ambiance and highway refinement over raw performance or resale value.

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