Volvo’s new S90 gets a major facelift! The flagship sedan evolves even further with the latest design and advanced technology.

On April 17, 2025, Swedish car manufacturer Volvo Cars announced details of a major overhaul of its flagship sedan, the S90.

The S90, positioned at the top of Volvo’s lineup alongside the SUV “XC90” and the wagon “V90,” has been highly praised by users around the world as a model that offers sophisticated Scandinavian design, advanced safety technology, and a comfortable driving experience. The current model, introduced to the Japanese market in 2017, was initially limited to 500 units, but due to its popularity, it was made into a regular sales model in 2021 with minor improvements.

Now, with the much-awaited major minor change, the car has made further advancements in design, technology, comfort, and driving performance. In this article, we will take a closer look at the all-new Volvo S90, which has become significantly more attractive, including its specs, equipment, and market positioning.

Summary of the big minor change to the new Volvo S90

Refined exterior design: the face of a new generation of Volvo

One of the most significant changes in this major facelift is the extensive overhaul of the exterior design. Volvo has accelerated its shift to electric vehicles (EVs) in recent years, and its design language is also shifting to a new generation. The exterior of the new S90 incorporates design elements from the concept model announced as Volvo’s future flagship EV sedan and its previously improved sibling, the XC90, resulting in a more modern and sophisticated look. Of particular note is the change to the front mask. The LED headlights, featuring Volvo’s iconic “Thor’s Hammer” design motif, are slimmer than before and have a more emphasized design that emphasizes the outline of the daytime running lights. This creates a sharper, more intelligent expression. Furthermore, the headlights extend further inward along the nose, merging into the newly designed front grille. This new grille has been changed from the previous concave design to a more three-dimensional convex design, featuring a pattern of diagonal lines extending from two directions and overlapping in the center. This intricate design enhances the overall quality of the vehicle and clearly identifies it as a new-generation Volvo model. The front bumper has also been redesigned, with the side air intakes now featuring a vertical design, emphasizing a wide and stable stance. The shapes of the hood and front fenders have also been revised, giving the car a more sleek and dynamic silhouette.

The rear section has also been significantly redesigned to harmonize with the front. The previous U-shaped taillights have been replaced with a sharper, horizontal design that echoes the Thor’s Hammer headlights at the front. This gives the rear a more modern and sophisticated look, improving nighttime visibility. The rear bumper design has also been revamped, resulting in a cleaner, more integrated look, including the treatment of the exhaust pipes. From the side, newly designed diamond-cut aluminum wheels add a stylish touch to the vehicle’s stance. The design, which combines elegance and sportiness, perfectly matches the S90’s character and further enhances the vehicle’s overall sense of luxury. These design changes not only change the overall appearance, but are also believed to contribute to improved aerodynamic performance. Volvo has always strived to achieve a high level of balance between design and functionality, and this philosophy is carried through to the new S90. Overall, the exterior of the new S90 retains Volvo’s signature clean and elegant Scandinavian design, while incorporating the latest design trends and technologies to achieve a more refined and imposing appearance befitting a flagship sedan.

Imposing body size and comfortable space: Flagship style

The new Volvo S90 measures 4970mm long, 1880mm wide, 1445mm high, and has a wheelbase of 2940mm. These dimensions ensure a strong presence and ample interior space as the flagship sedan in Volvo’s lineup. Compared to the flagship V90 wagon (4935mm long, 1880mm wide, 1475mm high, 2940mm wheelbase), which shares the same platform, the new S90 is 35mm longer and 30mm lower. These low, sleek proportions emphasize the S90’s sporty and elegant character. The same 1880mm width as the V90 makes it relatively easy to handle, even on Japanese roads. The long wheelbase contributes to ample rear seat legroom, providing comfortable travel space for rear-seat passengers. Compared to the flagship SUV “XC90” (length 4955mm x width 1960mm x height 1775mm, wheelbase 2985mm), the new S90 is roughly the same length, but 80mm narrower and 330mm taller, giving it a lower center of gravity and a more stable, sedan-like form. With its imposing size and sophisticated styling, the new S90 will make a strong impression on those who see it and bring joy to owners.

Volvo main model body size comparison chart

An interior that combines quality and functionality: Evolved digital experience and improved comfort

Like its exterior, the new S90’s interior embodies Volvo’s latest interpretation of Scandinavian luxury. The interior, designed for simplicity, high quality, and intuitive operation, provides a relaxing and comfortable environment for the driver and passengers. The greatest highlight of this upgrade is the extensively updated infotainment system. A new, larger 11.2-inch touchscreen replaces the previous model’s 9-inch vertical center display. This new display is not just larger; it also boasts a 21% increase in pixel density, providing a clearer, higher-resolution display. This significantly improves the visibility of map displays and various information, supporting a more comfortable drive. The interface has also been redesigned, with shortcuts to frequently used apps and vehicle settings placed on the home screen. This allows drivers to quickly access desired functions with fewer operations and minimizes eye movement while driving. The new infotainment system is based on Android Automotive OS, developed in collaboration with Google, and includes built-in services such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. This means that you can always access the latest map information and real-time traffic information without relying on connection to a smartphone, and intuitive operation is also possible using voice commands.In addition, the vehicle is equipped with an OTA (Over-The-Air) update function, which allows software updates and the addition of new functions to be performed automatically via wireless communication without the need to take the vehicle to a dealer.This means that you can always use your vehicle with the latest information, greatly improving convenience.

In addition to the evolution of the infotainment system, the overall interior quality and comfort have also been further enhanced. While maintaining Volvo’s signature high-quality trim made with natural materials and ergonomically designed seats, this update includes the addition and repositioning of sound-insulating materials, further improving cabin quietness. Engine, road, and wind noise are effectively suppressed, creating a quiet and tranquil interior even at highway speeds. This allows the driver to concentrate on the road and passengers to relax. The optional Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) Premium Sound audio system has also continued to evolve in 2021, with improved sound field reproduction and the addition of a new “Jazz Club Mode.” The new S90 offers an even more refined acoustic space, allowing for a more immersive music experience. Another notable feature for enhanced comfort is the standard adaptive suspension (depending on market). It automatically adjusts damping force according to road conditions and driving style, providing optimal ride comfort and stable handling at all times. The clean, minimalist dashboard design, achieved by minimizing the number of physical switches and concentrating functions on a large touchscreen, creates a sense of visual spaciousness and openness. The interior of the new S90 beautifully combines the latest digital technology with Volvo’s signature high-quality materials and comfort-focused equipment, providing a sophisticated travel space befitting a modern luxury sedan.

Powerful and efficient plug-in hybrid: performance in the electrified era

The new S90 introduced in the Japanese market will be equipped with the T8 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid powertrain, a core element of Volvo’s electrification strategy. This high-performance plug-in hybrid system combines a highly efficient 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with front and rear electric motors and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. The engine produces a maximum output of 317 horsepower and a maximum torque of 40.8 kgm. Coupled with the front electric motors (71 horsepower/16.8 kgm) and the rear electric motors (145 horsepower/31.5 kgm), the overall system delivers exceptionally powerful performance. The high-output rear motor delivers particularly powerful torque during starts and acceleration, resulting in smooth yet sharp acceleration. The rear motor can also drive the rear wheels independently, functioning as an electronically controlled all-wheel-drive (AWD) system to enhance vehicle stability on slippery roads and when cornering.

EV driving capability, one of the major benefits of the plug-in hybrid system, has also been improved. Thanks to the increased battery capacity, the EV range from a fully charged state reaches 81 km in WLTC mode. This distance allows for short trips such as daily commutes and shopping trips to be driven entirely on electricity, without the need for gasoline, significantly reducing environmental impact and running costs. By charging the battery at home or at a charging station, zero-emission driving is possible for many everyday situations. The vehicle is paired with a multi-stage 8-speed automatic transmission, which maintains the engine’s efficient RPM range while providing smooth, seamless gear changes. This maximizes the capabilities of the powerful engine and motor, providing optimal drivability in all driving situations. Fuel efficiency, unique to plug-in hybrids, is also achieved. The published fuel economy in hybrid mode is 14.5 km/L in WLTC mode, an excellent figure for a large luxury sedan. By efficiently using stored electricity and gasoline, the vehicle delivers excellent economy even on long-distance drives. In some overseas markets (mainly Asian markets), a front-wheel drive 2.0-liter mild hybrid engine model will also be available, but at present, only the plug-in hybrid model is expected to be introduced to the Japanese market.The new S90’s powertrain actively utilizes electrification technology to achieve a perfect balance between powerful performance, excellent environmental friendliness, and high economy.

Volvo New S90 T8 Plug-in Hybrid Specs

IntelliSafe, the world’s highest level of safety performance: the epitome of Volvo’s safety philosophy

The advanced safety technology is a core value of the Volvo brand and has earned the brand a global reputation. The new S90 also comes standard with the IntelliSafe integrated safety system, which brings together the latest technology and safety knowledge that Volvo has cultivated over many years. IntelliSafe is made up of a variety of functions to protect the driver, passengers, and people outside the vehicle from both the perspectives of active safety (preventive safety) to prevent accidents before they occur, and passive safety (crash safety) to protect occupants in the unlikely event of an accident.

The core of active safety is the collision avoidance and damage mitigation braking system known as “City Safety .” Using a forward-facing camera and millimeter-wave radar, it detects vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and even large animals, and issues a warning to the driver when the risk of a collision increases. If the driver fails to take evasive action, the system automatically applies the brakes to avoid a collision or mitigate damage. The system also incorporates features such as “Intersection Support,” which detects vehicles traveling in oncoming lanes when turning right, and “Oncoming Lane Mitigation,” which detects vehicles drifting into oncoming lanes and assists steering to return the vehicle to its original lane, contributing to safety in a variety of traffic situations. Furthermore, if the system determines that a collision cannot be avoided by damage mitigation braking alone, it also features “Steering Support,” which assists steering and assists with evasive maneuvers. In emergency situations, the system applies the brakes to the inside wheels of both the front and rear tires to stabilize the vehicle’s behavior and support the driver in steering safely.

The car is also equipped with a wide range of driver assistance features. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) automatically maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead while following the vehicle ahead. Pilot Assist (Lane Keeping Assist System) assists with steering while ACC is active, helping to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. These features significantly reduce driver fatigue during long-distance highway driving and traffic jams. Another feature to ensure safety when changing lanes is the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Steering Assist. This system warns the driver of vehicles in their blind spots on either side with indicators in the door mirrors, and applies gentle steering corrective torque to encourage the driver to stay in their original lane when attempting to change lanes. Safety when reversing is also taken into consideration. Cross Traffic Alert (CTA) uses millimeter-wave radar built into the rear bumper to detect approaching vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists from the left and right when backing out of a parking space. It alerts the driver with an audible warning and automatically applies the brakes if necessary (with collision avoidance and damage mitigation braking functions). The “Park Assist Pilot” system, which assists with parking maneuvers, also incorporates a damage mitigation brake, which automatically applies the brakes when it detects an obstacle in front of or behind the vehicle’s predicted path during parallel or perpendicular parking. The 2021 improvements also include a “Leading Vehicle Departure Notification” function, which alerts the driver if the vehicle remains stopped without noticing that the vehicle ahead has started moving, for example, at a traffic light, and a “Rear Collision Avoidance and Damage Mitigation Braking System,” which rapidly flashes the hazard lights to warn following vehicles if it detects a risk of a rear-end collision, and automatically applies the brakes to mitigate damage if it determines that a collision is unavoidable.

In addition to these advanced active safety features, the car is also equipped with thorough passive safety technology to prepare for the unlikely event of an accident. It features comprehensive safety measures that only Volvo can offer, including the “Safety Cage” body structure, which makes extensive use of high-tensile steel, various airbag systems to protect occupants, a seat structure that absorbs the impact of a collision, “front seatbelts with electric pre-crash tensioners” that securely fasten occupants to their seats in the event of a collision, and “Run-Off Road Protection,” which reduces the impact on occupants in the event of a road departure accident. The new S90 is a sedan with the world’s highest level of safety performance, embodying Volvo’s safety philosophy of “putting people at the center.”

Price and release date in the Japanese market: Prices worthy of a flagship model

The new Volvo S90, which has undergone extensive improvements, is available in a single trim level: the plug-in hybrid model, the S90 Recharge Ultimate T8 AWD Plug-in Hybrid. The price in the Japanese market has been announced as ¥10,890,000 (including consumption tax). This represents a price increase of approximately ¥300,000 compared to the previous trim level. This price reflects a wide range of improvements, including a modern design, an updated 11.2-inch infotainment system, over-the-air (OTA) functionality, improved quietness, and a comprehensive range of standard advanced safety and driver assistance systems. Considering the high quality, advanced features, and safety of Volvo’s flagship sedan, this price is well worth it. The new S90 is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in the summer of 2025. By introducing this attractive flagship sedan, Volvo aims to strengthen its presence in the sedan market and, through synergy with the XC90 and V90, which are also part of the 90 series, to enhance the brand’s overall image.

S90 in the global market: Responding to a changing market

While the new S90 was developed with the global market in mind, it was also primarily targeted at Asian markets, particularly China. In recent years, the global automotive market, particularly in Europe and the United States, has seen a significant shift in demand toward SUVs, putting traditional sedans in a difficult position. In fact, the S90 has already been discontinued in some European markets, such as the UK and France. In the US, S90 sales have been sluggish due to the shrinking sedan market and the impact of tariffs on Chinese products imposed by previous administrations. It has been reported that the updated model is unlikely to be introduced. Volvo’s US division is also reportedly considering discontinuing sales of the S90. In response to these changing market conditions, Volvo is shifting its sales strategy for the new S90 to focus on Asian markets, where demand for sedans is expected to remain strong. Sales of the new S90 will begin at Chinese dealerships in the summer of 2025, followed by rollout to select markets, including Japan. Meanwhile, Volvo is accelerating its shift to electrification, and apart from the S90, it is also developing the ES90 as a fully electric vehicle (EV) flagship sedan. In the future, the ES90 will likely serve as Volvo’s top-of-the-line sedan. However, it has been pointed out that the ES90 may also be affected by US tariffs, depending on its production base. Fortunately, the improved new S90 will be introduced in the Japanese market, which is good news for customers looking for a Volvo flagship sedan.

Summary: The appeal of Volvo’s new S90, a luxury sedan for the new era

The new Volvo S90, which underwent a major facelift in 2025 and has further evolved, combines all the elements required of a modern luxury sedan at a high level. Its sophisticated exterior incorporates the new generation Volvo design language, an advanced digital experience with a large 11.2-inch display and Google infotainment system, and a comfortable interior refined by improved sound insulation and adaptive suspension. The powertrain is equipped with the T8 plug-in hybrid system, which combines powerful performance with excellent environmental friendliness, delivering driving pleasure in the electrified era. And above all, Volvo’s signature IntelliSafe system, the world’s most advanced safety and driver assistance system, protects not only passengers but also those around them. While sales strategies are being reconsidered in some markets, the new Volvo S90 offers a truly captivating experience in Japan. More than just a means of transportation, the new Volvo S90 offers quality time, space, and peace of mind, making it a truly worthy Volvo flagship. For those seeking sophisticated design, cutting-edge technology, and unwavering safety, the new S90 will be a very attractive choice. We can’t wait to see its new form on the roads of Japan in the summer of 2025.