2024 Volvo S90 Recharge : review Amazing car

Volvo S90

It’s been a decade since I last sat behind the wheel of a Volvo S90, and today, I want to take you on a journey through the brand’s transformation, the evolution of their cars, and my personal philosophy on hybridization and electric vehicles.

Back in 2015, Volvo made significant strides with the launch of their new cars. While their vehicles may appear conservative and lack bold personalities, there’s a timeless quality to them that extends to their SUVs. Despite minor exterior changes like the inverted grill and bumper tweaks, most won’t notice. However, the understated nature of Volvo is amplified by their limited color palette, consisting of nearly 20 shades of gray.

The Remarkable Interior

Where Volvo truly shines is in interior design. Their attention to detail in material selection, layout, and texture gives the cabin a fresh, modern feel even after all these years. However, there’s a glaring flaw – the technology. Despite updating to Android Automotive, the screen quality remains subpar, indicating that not enough investment was made in this area. Volvo is now channeling their resources into full electrification.

This particular model, the fully loaded S90 Executive, comes with a hefty price tag of almost $73,000. Given the competition and the state of the sedan market, it’s a tough sell. However, it does offer the impressive Bowers and Wilkins sound system, which sets a benchmark for audio quality in sedans. The SUVs perform even better, and it’s advisable to opt for the package with cooled seats and ventilation in the back. The thoughtful design extends to the front seats, which feature a massage function, creating an overall upscale and modern cabin.

The Evolution of the S90 Recharge

Now, let’s delve into the changes that have occurred in the S90 Recharge over the years. When I first encountered this car in 2017, it had a complicated setup with a supercharger, a turbocharger, and an electric motor. Fast forward to the present, and Volvo has made significant improvements. They’ve streamlined the powertrain, opting for a turbocharged engine paired with a larger electric motor in the back, capable of generating 160 horsepower. This change, along with an 18-kilowatt-hour battery pack (up from 11), provides more power and a longer electric range, around 38 miles.

The tuning of the engine and transmission has improved, making the driving experience more natural. The electric motor in the rear has allowed for a smoother all-wheel-drive system, eliminating the previous issues with calibration and electrical problems that plagued the earlier models.

The Challenge of First-Generation Plug-in Hybrids

One challenge with first-generation plug-in hybrids, like the earlier versions of the S90 Recharge, is that they can become outdated quickly. If you bought one five years ago, you might find it challenging to sell or trade it, as the newer models are vastly improved. Volvo’s attempt to have a single 4-cylinder 2L engine for all their cars and SUVs was a noble idea, but the combination of a supercharger, a turbocharger, and an electric motor made it complex and less reliable.

However, with the latest updates, Volvo has achieved a more straightforward and reliable powertrain setup, which should appeal to future buyers. The suspension calibration has also improved, making the S90 Recharge quieter and more refined. The air ride option is available but not recommended due to its high cost, both upfront and for maintenance.

The Chinese Connection

One noteworthy change is that the newer S90 Recharge models are manufactured in China. This might be a concern for some, but as more Chinese electric cars enter the market with attractive features and technology, the stigma of Chinese-made vehicles is fading. In surface-level driving, it’s challenging to distinguish between the old Swedish-made model and the current Chinese-made one.

The Test Drive

I took the S90 Recharge for a spin in full power mode, and the results were impressive. The recalibration of the powertrain made the transition between the gasoline engine and the electric motor smoother. The electric motor’s increased power delivery, combined with the refined programming, provides a quicker, more responsive driving experience. Although it may not entirely replace the experience of a V6 or V8 engine, it compensates with refinement and power, making it a more compelling option.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Volvo S90 Recharge has come a long way and is now closer to what it should have been at launch. However, it’s important to consider the vehicle’s impending obsolescence as Volvo shifts its focus to all-electric cars. While this car offers many positive attributes, there are now stronger alternatives on the market, such as the BMW 5 Series and the Genesis G80. If you’re considering a used S90 Recharge and can secure an extended warranty, it might be worth the investment. However, be aware that long-term ownership could be challenging.

This car represents a valuable lesson in patience for buyers. As the automotive industry evolves, it’s crucial not to rush into purchases, as manufacturers like Volvo continue to fine-tune their products. The Volvo S90 Recharge, despite its merits, is a relic of the past in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.

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