The luxury sedan market has become increasingly obsessed with performance numbers, oversized screens, and aggressive styling. Every year, manufacturers seem determined to make their flagship sedans faster, sharper, and more complicated. The 2023 Volvo S90 takes a different path.
Rather than chasing the German competition on a racetrack, Volvo focuses on something many luxury buyers value far more: comfort. The S90 is designed to create a calm and relaxing environment where long drives feel effortless, passengers feel genuinely pampered, and technology works quietly in the background instead of demanding constant attention.
That philosophy is immediately visible in the car’s design. The S90 avoids unnecessary drama and embraces clean Scandinavian elegance. Its proportions are graceful, its cabin feels thoughtfully crafted, and every major design decision appears focused on creating a sense of balance rather than showing off.
Inside, the experience becomes even more distinctive. The seats remain among the most comfortable in the industry, material quality is excellent, and the Google-powered infotainment system adds modern functionality without overwhelming the driver. While rivals often compete to offer the flashiest cabin, the S90 succeeds by creating one of the most relaxing interiors available at any price.
The available Recharge plug-in hybrid model further strengthens the sedan’s appeal. With 455 horsepower and up to 38 miles of electric driving range, it combines impressive efficiency with acceleration that rivals many performance sedans. Yet even in its most powerful form, the S90 never loses its focus on refinement.
The result is a luxury sedan that feels refreshingly different. It may not be the sportiest option in its class, but for buyers seeking comfort, elegance, technology, and everyday usability, the 2023 Volvo S90 remains one of the most compelling alternatives to the traditional German luxury establishment.
Our Take
The 2023 Volvo S90 is one of the most underrated luxury sedans on the market.
What impressed us most is how confidently Volvo sticks to its identity. While competitors continue chasing sportier handling and increasingly aggressive designs, the S90 prioritizes comfort, space, refinement, and long-distance usability. It feels like a vehicle designed for real-world luxury rather than showroom headlines.
The cabin is a particular highlight. Material quality is excellent, passenger space is generous, and the seats remain among the best available in any luxury vehicle. Combined with Google Built-In technology and Volvo’s reputation for safety, the S90 delivers a premium experience that feels genuinely distinctive.
Its biggest weakness is that some rivals offer sharper handling and more engaging driving dynamics. Buyers looking for a sports sedan may find themselves drawn toward a BMW 5 Series or Audi A6 instead.
However, for drivers who value comfort, elegance, safety, and Scandinavian design, the S90 continues to be one of the smartest luxury sedan choices available.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Elegant Scandinavian design inside and out
- Exceptionally comfortable seats
- Spacious rear-seat accommodations
- Strong plug-in hybrid option with 38 miles of EV range
- Google Built-In infotainment system
- Outstanding safety technology
- Quiet and refined highway manners
Cons
- Not as sporty as German competitors
- Smaller trunk than some rivals
- Most premium features require higher trims
- Touchscreen controls can require extra attention
- Limited model lineup compared to competitors
What’s New for 2023
The biggest changes for the 2023 Volvo S90 center around trim restructuring and electrification. Volvo replaced the previous Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription naming strategy with simpler Plus and Ultimate trims, making the lineup easier to understand.
The Recharge plug-in hybrid model remains the headline powertrain, combining 455 horsepower with up to 38 miles of electric-only driving range. This continues to make the S90 one of the most capable electrified luxury sedans in its class.
Google Built-In technology is now fully integrated across the lineup, giving drivers access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and connected services directly through the infotainment system. Volvo also expanded comfort-focused options through packages that add ventilated seats, massage functions, upgraded rear-seat amenities, and additional luxury features.
Most importantly, the 2023 model continues Volvo’s broader transition toward electrification while preserving the comfort, elegance, and safety that have defined the S90 throughout its life cycle.
Exterior Design
The 2023 Volvo S90 proves that luxury does not need to be loud. While many competitors rely on oversized grilles, sharp creases, and aggressive styling cues to attract attention, the S90 embraces a cleaner and more timeless approach.
The front fascia is instantly recognizable thanks to Volvo’s signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights and elegant grille design. The look is modern and upscale without feeling overly complicated. It projects confidence through simplicity rather than visual drama.
From the side, the S90 benefits from its long-wheelbase proportions. The extended body creates a sleek, almost limousine-like silhouette that immediately separates it from smaller luxury sedans. The roofline flows smoothly into the rear deck, giving the car a sophisticated appearance that feels both contemporary and mature.
The rear design continues the Scandinavian theme. Distinctive LED taillights, clean surfacing, and restrained detailing create an elegant finish. Unlike some rivals that can appear busy or overstyled, the S90 maintains a sense of visual calm that perfectly matches its personality.
Perhaps the greatest compliment that can be paid to the S90 is that it looks expensive without trying too hard. Years from now, its understated styling will likely age more gracefully than many of its trend-driven competitors.
Driving Experience
The driving experience of the 2023 Volvo S90 is built around refinement rather than excitement. Volvo never intended this sedan to challenge a BMW 5 Series on a winding mountain road. Instead, it focuses on making every journey feel comfortable, relaxed, and effortless.
Around town, the S90 feels remarkably easy to drive despite its size. Visibility is generally good, steering effort remains light at lower speeds, and the vehicle responds predictably to driver inputs. Daily commuting feels stress-free, which is exactly what many luxury sedan buyers are looking for.
Once on the highway, the S90 begins to reveal its true strengths. The suspension absorbs imperfections with impressive composure, helping isolate occupants from rough pavement and road disturbances. Long-distance travel becomes one of the car’s greatest talents, as it effortlessly settles into a smooth and relaxed rhythm.
The steering prioritizes stability and confidence over outright sportiness. Drivers expecting razor-sharp responses may prefer German competitors, but the Volvo’s calmer approach feels entirely appropriate for the mission of the vehicle.
The Recharge plug-in hybrid model adds another layer of sophistication. Instant electric torque provides strong acceleration when needed, while the transition between electric and gasoline power is generally smooth and unobtrusive. The result is a sedan that feels powerful without ever becoming aggressive.
Ultimately, the S90 delivers a driving experience that prioritizes comfort, confidence, and serenity. It may not be the most entertaining luxury sedan in the segment, but it is undoubtedly one of the most relaxing.
Performance & Acceleration
Volvo offers two distinct personalities within the S90 lineup, allowing buyers to choose between traditional luxury cruising and advanced electrified performance.
The mild-hybrid B6 powertrain serves as the standard setup for most models. Producing 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, it delivers smooth and confident acceleration that feels more than adequate for everyday driving. Merging onto highways, passing slower traffic, and carrying multiple passengers never feels like a challenge.
The real headline performer is the Recharge plug-in hybrid. Combining a turbocharged and supercharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, the system produces an impressive 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers allow the S90 Recharge to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 4.6 seconds, placing it firmly among the quickest luxury sedans in its class.
What makes the Recharge particularly impressive is how effortlessly it delivers performance. Instant electric torque creates strong low-speed responsiveness, while the gasoline engine seamlessly contributes additional power when needed. The result feels refined rather than explosive.
Both powertrains are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that prioritizes smoothness over aggressive shifting. Gear changes are generally unobtrusive and well suited to the S90’s luxury-focused character.
Whether buyers choose the mild hybrid or the plug-in hybrid, the S90 provides ample performance for daily driving while maintaining the polished and sophisticated personality that defines the Volvo brand.
Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement
If there is one area where the 2023 Volvo S90 truly excels, it is comfort. This sedan was clearly engineered with long-distance travel in mind, and few vehicles in its price range create such a relaxing environment for both drivers and passengers.
The suspension is tuned to absorb imperfections rather than communicate them. Broken pavement, expansion joints, and rough road surfaces are handled with impressive composure. Rather than feeling soft or disconnected, the S90 manages to isolate occupants from harshness while maintaining excellent stability at higher speeds.
Noise isolation is another major strength. Wind noise remains exceptionally well controlled, road noise is subdued, and the cabin maintains a sense of calm even when traveling at highway speeds. This level of refinement contributes significantly to the premium experience and helps reduce fatigue during longer journeys.
The seats deserve special recognition. Volvo has built a reputation for producing some of the most comfortable seats in the automotive industry, and the S90 continues that tradition. The front seats provide excellent support during extended drives, while available ventilation, heating, and massage functions further enhance comfort.
Rear-seat passengers benefit even more. Thanks to the long wheelbase, legroom is among the best in the segment. Adults can comfortably spend hours in the back seat without feeling cramped, making the S90 feel closer to a full-size luxury sedan than a traditional midsize competitor.
The result is a luxury sedan that prioritizes passenger well-being above all else. Few vehicles in this class deliver such a serene and comfortable experience.
Interior & Luxury Feel
Step inside the 2023 Volvo S90 and it becomes immediately clear that Volvo approaches luxury differently than its German rivals.
Instead of emphasizing technology or sportiness, the cabin focuses on craftsmanship, simplicity, and atmosphere. The Scandinavian design philosophy is evident throughout the interior, creating a space that feels elegant, uncluttered, and welcoming.
Material quality is excellent. Soft leather surfaces, genuine wood trim, metallic accents, and carefully selected textures create a premium environment that feels genuinely expensive. Unlike some competitors that rely heavily on glossy surfaces and visual complexity, the S90 achieves luxury through restraint.
The dashboard design remains one of the most attractive in the segment. Clean horizontal lines, a minimalist center console, and thoughtfully integrated technology create an interior that feels modern without becoming overwhelming. Everything appears intentional and carefully placed.
Passenger space is another highlight. Front occupants enjoy generous room in every direction, while rear passengers benefit from limousine-like accommodations. The long-wheelbase design allows the S90 to compete with significantly larger and more expensive luxury sedans when it comes to rear-seat comfort.
What ultimately separates the S90 from many rivals is its atmosphere. Rather than feeling like a rolling technology showcase, it feels like a sophisticated living space designed to make occupants comfortable and relaxed. That unique character remains one of the Volvo’s greatest strengths.
Technology & Infotainment
Technology plays an important role in the S90, but Volvo integrates it with a level of subtlety that many competitors struggle to achieve.
At the center of the dashboard is a vertically oriented touchscreen powered by Google’s operating system. This integration gives drivers direct access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other connected services without requiring smartphone connectivity. The result is one of the most intuitive infotainment experiences currently available.
Google Maps deserves particular praise. Navigation instructions are clear, route calculations are fast, and real-time traffic information is seamlessly integrated into the experience. For many owners, the built-in system may completely replace the need for smartphone navigation apps.
Voice control is equally impressive. Google Assistant understands natural speech commands and can handle navigation requests, climate adjustments, media functions, and general questions with remarkable accuracy. The system feels genuinely useful rather than merely existing as a marketing feature.
Wireless smartphone integration remains available for buyers who prefer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, ensuring flexibility regardless of personal preference. Connectivity options throughout the cabin further enhance everyday usability.
Audiophiles will appreciate the available Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system, which remains one of the finest audio systems available in any luxury sedan. The clarity, depth, and overall sound quality help transform the cabin into an exceptional listening environment.
While some rivals offer larger screens or flashier graphics, the S90 succeeds by delivering technology that feels intuitive, useful, and thoughtfully integrated into the overall luxury experience.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is not usually the headline feature of a large luxury sedan, but the 2023 Volvo S90 performs surprisingly well, particularly in its electrified forms.
The standard B6 mild-hybrid model delivers respectable efficiency for a vehicle of this size and power. While it may not lead the segment, it provides a reasonable balance between performance and operating costs, making it suitable for daily commuting and long-distance travel alike.
The real star of the lineup is the Recharge plug-in hybrid. Thanks to its larger battery pack, the S90 Recharge can travel up to 38 miles on electric power alone before the gasoline engine becomes necessary. For many owners, this means completing daily commutes without using a drop of fuel.
Once the battery is depleted, the Recharge continues to perform efficiently as a hybrid. Unlike some plug-in hybrids that feel compromised after their electric range is exhausted, the Volvo remains smooth, refined, and economical.
Buyers who prioritize efficiency will find the Recharge particularly appealing because it combines genuine electric driving capability with the convenience of a traditional gasoline vehicle. It represents one of the most practical electrified luxury sedans available in the segment.
Practicality & Cargo Space
Luxury sedans are rarely purchased for their cargo capacity, but the 2023 Volvo S90 offers enough practicality to satisfy most owners.
The cabin is spacious and intelligently designed. Front occupants have abundant room, while rear passengers enjoy some of the most generous accommodations in the class. The long-wheelbase layout allows adults to stretch out comfortably during longer journeys, which significantly enhances the S90’s appeal as a luxury cruiser.
Storage areas throughout the cabin are thoughtfully placed and easy to access. Door pockets, center-console storage, cupholders, and various smaller compartments help accommodate everyday items without cluttering the interior.
The trunk offers competitive cargo capacity for the segment. While it may not match the practicality of certain hatchback-style luxury vehicles, it provides sufficient space for luggage, airport runs, business travel, and weekend getaways.
Foldable rear seats further increase flexibility when transporting larger items. Although the S90 is clearly focused on passenger comfort rather than cargo hauling, it remains practical enough for most luxury sedan buyers.
Ultimately, the S90 strikes a sensible balance between elegance and usability. It delivers the spaciousness expected from a premium sedan while maintaining the sophisticated atmosphere that defines the Volvo experience.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety has always been one of Volvo’s defining characteristics, and the 2023 S90 continues to uphold that reputation.
The sedan comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies designed to help prevent accidents before they occur. Standard features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, and numerous collision-mitigation systems.
Volvo’s Pilot Assist system deserves particular attention. It combines adaptive cruise control with steering assistance to reduce driver workload during highway travel. While it does not replace attentive driving, it makes long-distance journeys significantly more relaxing.
The S90’s structural engineering is equally impressive. Volvo has long been recognized for building vehicles with occupant protection as a priority, and the S90 benefits from advanced crash-management systems, multiple airbags, and carefully engineered safety structures.
Pedestrian, cyclist, and large-animal detection systems further reinforce Volvo’s safety-first philosophy. These technologies help the vehicle identify potential hazards and intervene when necessary, particularly in situations where drivers may have limited reaction time.
Perhaps most importantly, the safety systems operate smoothly and predictably. Rather than constantly interrupting the driving experience, they work quietly in the background, providing confidence without becoming intrusive. This refinement perfectly matches the calm and sophisticated character of the S90.
Competitors Worth Considering
The luxury sedan segment remains highly competitive, and the 2023 Volvo S90 faces several impressive rivals that each bring a unique personality to the market.
The BMW 5 Series continues to be the choice for buyers who prioritize driving dynamics. It offers sharper handling, more engaging steering, and a sportier overall character. Drivers who enjoy being actively involved behind the wheel may naturally gravitate toward the BMW.
The Audi A6 focuses on refinement and technology. Its cabin quality remains excellent, and its understated design appeals to buyers who appreciate premium craftsmanship without unnecessary attention. The Audi feels more German in its execution, while the Volvo delivers a warmer and more relaxed atmosphere.
Genesis has become a serious contender with the G80. Offering exceptional value, premium materials, and generous equipment levels, the G80 challenges traditional luxury brands more effectively than ever. Buyers focused on maximizing features per dollar should give it serious consideration.
The Lexus ES remains one of the most comfortable and reliable sedans in the segment. While it lacks the performance and advanced electrification of the Volvo Recharge, its reputation for long-term dependability continues to attract loyal buyers.
For shoppers considering larger luxury sedans, vehicles such as the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class offer even more rear-seat space and prestige. However, they also require a substantially larger financial commitment.
What makes the S90 unique is its ability to blend near-flagship rear-seat comfort, advanced electrification, Scandinavian design, and Volvo’s renowned safety reputation into a package that remains more affordable than many larger luxury sedans.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
For most buyers, the S90 Recharge Ultimate is the version we would choose.
While the standard mild-hybrid models provide a comfortable and refined luxury sedan experience, the Recharge transforms the S90 into something much more compelling. The combination of 455 horsepower, impressive electric driving range, and outstanding efficiency gives it capabilities that few competitors can match.
The Ultimate trim also unlocks many of the features that make the S90 feel genuinely special. Premium interior materials, enhanced seating, additional luxury amenities, advanced technology, and upgraded comfort features help justify the higher price.
Perhaps most importantly, the Recharge Ultimate captures Volvo’s future vision while preserving the qualities that made the brand successful in the first place. It feels modern, efficient, luxurious, and distinctly Volvo.
For buyers seeking the best version of the S90 experience, the Recharge Ultimate is easily our recommendation.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The 2023 Volvo S90 is not trying to be a BMW 5 Series, an Audi A6, or a Mercedes-Benz E-Class. That may be its greatest strength.
Rather than chasing sportier handling or increasingly aggressive styling, Volvo has created a luxury sedan that prioritizes comfort, elegance, safety, and long-distance refinement. The result is a vehicle that feels refreshingly different in a segment increasingly dominated by similar approaches.
The cabin remains one of the most inviting interiors in the luxury market. Passenger space is excellent, material quality is impressive, and the Scandinavian design philosophy creates an atmosphere that few competitors can replicate. Add Volvo’s industry-leading safety technologies and the sophisticated Google-powered infotainment system, and the S90 becomes a remarkably complete package.
The Recharge plug-in hybrid further strengthens the sedan’s appeal. Its combination of strong performance and meaningful electric driving capability makes it one of the most compelling electrified luxury sedans available today.
There are certainly compromises. Some rivals offer sharper handling, larger cargo areas, or stronger brand prestige. Yet very few vehicles provide the same blend of comfort, sophistication, efficiency, and understated luxury.
For buyers who value serenity over sportiness and elegance over excess, the 2023 Volvo S90 remains one of the most underrated luxury sedans on the road and one of the smartest alternatives to the traditional German luxury establishment.
FAQ
Is the 2023 Volvo S90 more comfortable than the BMW 5 Series?
For most buyers, yes. The BMW 5 Series offers sharper handling and a more engaging driving experience, but the S90 focuses heavily on ride comfort, cabin refinement, and long-distance relaxation. If comfort is your top priority, the Volvo is likely the better choice.
Is the Volvo S90 Recharge worth the extra money?
Absolutely. The Recharge plug-in hybrid combines strong performance with up to 38 miles of electric-only driving range. For owners who can charge regularly, it can significantly reduce fuel costs while providing considerably more power than the standard mild-hybrid models.
How spacious is the rear seat in the 2023 Volvo S90?
The S90 offers one of the largest rear-seat areas in the luxury sedan segment. Rear legroom rivals some full-size luxury sedans and exceeds many midsize competitors, making it an excellent choice for buyers who frequently carry adult passengers.
Is the 2023 Volvo S90 a good alternative to German luxury sedans?
Yes. Buyers who prioritize comfort, safety, elegant design, and everyday refinement may actually prefer the S90 over traditional German rivals. While it is not as sporty as a BMW or as technology-focused as some Mercedes-Benz models, it delivers a unique luxury experience centered around Scandinavian sophistication.
Should you buy the 2023 Volvo S90 or move to a luxury SUV?
That depends on your priorities. Luxury SUVs offer a higher seating position and greater cargo flexibility, but the S90 provides a smoother ride, superior highway comfort, better efficiency, and a more elegant driving experience. Buyers who spend significant time on the road may find the sedan more rewarding and relaxing than many luxury SUVs.
