Overview

The Volvo S90 Recharge, marketed as the S90 AWD PHEV during the 2018-2021 model years, represents the brand’s commitment to electrification within its flagship sedan segment. Built upon the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), the S90 serves as the successor to the S80, emphasizing a minimalist Scandinavian design language characterized by its “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlight signature and a clean, uncluttered interior aesthetic. The plug-in hybrid variant was engineered to provide a balance between high-output performance and reduced tailpipe emissions, utilizing a sophisticated powertrain that combines a turbocharged and supercharged internal combustion engine with an electric motor mounted on the rear axle.

Manufacturing for the North American market primarily took place in Daqing, China, reflecting Volvo’s global production strategy under Geely ownership. The vehicle was positioned as a direct competitor to established German luxury sedans, focusing on occupant safety, interior material quality, and a unique approach to powertrain efficiency. By integrating a high-voltage battery pack into the central tunnel of the chassis, Volvo maintained the S90’s interior space while providing a limited electric-only driving range. This generation of the S90 remains recognized for its focus on driver assistance technology and its distinct departure from the traditional V8 or six-cylinder configurations favored by its predecessors.

Vehicle Overview
Brand Volvo
Model S90 AWD PHEV
Model Year 2018-2021
Generation 2nd Generation (SPA)
Trim T8 Recharge
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 2018
Production End 2021
VIN Identifier YV1
Base MSRP ~$64,000
Destination Charge $995
Total MSRP
Powertrain
Powertrain Type Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
Engine Family Volvo Engine Architecture (VEA)
Engine Name T8 Drive-E
Engine Code B4204T34
Engine Configuration Inline-4
Displacement 2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke 82.0 mm x 93.2 mm
Compression Ratio 10.3:1
Aspiration Turbocharged and Supercharged
Fuel Delivery Direct Injection
Valve Train DOHC 16-valve
Engine Block Material Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity 6.1 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity 0W-20 Synthetic
Horsepower 400 hp (Combined)
Torque 472 lb-ft (Combined)
Redline 6,500 rpm
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Transmission Automatic (S8)
Final Drive Ratio 3.329
Axle Ratio
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane 91+
EPA City MPG 27
EPA Highway MPG 32
EPA Combined MPG 29
EPA City MPGe (for EV/PHEV)
EPA Highway MPGe (for EV/PHEV)
EPA Combined MPGe (for EV/PHEV) 60 MPGe
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) 15.9
Estimated Driving Range 490 miles
Annual Fuel Cost $2,100
CO₂ Emissions
Greenhouse Gas Score
Smog Rating
Electric Vehicle System
Battery Supplier LG Chem
Battery Chemistry Lithium-ion
Gross Battery Capacity (kWh) 11.6
Usable Battery Capacity (kWh) 9.1
System Voltage 400V
Number of Motors 2 (1 Integrated Starter Gen, 1 Rear Electric)
Combined Output 34 and 65 kW 3-phase Sync.
Combined Torque
EPA Range (Miles) 21 miles (Electric only)
On-board Charger Power (kW) 3.6
AC Charging Power 3.6
DC Fast Charging Power N/A
Charge Port J1772
Charging Standard (CCS1/NACS)
DC Charge Time (10-80%) N/A
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) No
Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) No
Heat Pump No
Performance
0-30 mph
0-60 mph 4.5 seconds
0-100 mph
Quarter Mile 13.1 seconds
Top Speed 112 mph (Limited)
Braking Distance (60-0 mph) 118 ft
Lateral Acceleration 0.86g
Power-to-Weight Ratio
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in) 195.4
Width (Without Mirrors) (in) 74.0
Width (With Mirrors) (in) 80.4
Height (in) 56.8
Wheelbase (in) 115.8
Front Track (in) 64.1
Rear Track (in) 64.2
Ground Clearance (in) 6.0
Curb Weight (lbs) 4,600
GVWR (lbs) 5,500
Towing Capacity (lbs)
Payload Capacity (lbs)
Passenger Volume (cu ft) 99.0
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) 13.5
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)
Turning Circle 39.0 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 Vertical Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster 12.3-inch Digital Display
Apple CarPlay Standard
Android Auto Standard
Navigation System Standard
Audio System Bowers & Wilkins
Speaker Count 19
Wireless Charging Available
Wi-Fi Hotspot Available
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
Hybrid Component Warranty 8 years / 100,000 miles
EV Battery Warranty 8 years / 100,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant Skövde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier Aisin
Battery Cell Manufacturer LG Chem
Gear Ratios
Differential Type Electronic Rear Axle Drive
Cooling System Capacity
Frunk Capacity (cu ft) 0
Roof Load Capacity (lbs) 165
Safety Recall Count
Production Volume
Units Sold in USA

## Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The S90 AWD PHEV occupies a niche position in the used luxury market, appealing to buyers who prioritize safety, interior design, and the ability to commute on electric power for short distances. Reliability for this model is generally tied to the complexity of the T8 powertrain; while the gasoline engine is well-regarded, the integration of the supercharger, turbocharger, and electric drive system requires diligent maintenance. Prospective owners should inspect the high-voltage battery health and ensure all software updates have been applied, as early models occasionally experienced electronic glitches within the infotainment system. Despite these considerations, the vehicle offers significant value for those seeking a high-performance, executive-class sedan that provides a distinct alternative to the common German luxury options.

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