can significantly alter its behavior by using the S90’s drive-mode selector. In the default comfort mode, gearchanges are unobtrusive and predictably timed. Select eco mode, and the transmission upshifts a bit earlier and the trans is noticeably less eager to kick down when you’re toeing into the throttle. Pick sport mode and the opposite holds true, with the transmission upshifting at higher rpm, kicking down two gears with the slightest provocation, and taking into account cornering and braking behavior to minimize inconvenient shifts when you’re driving aggressively on a winding road. Although four-cylinder engines are becoming common in this class, most of the S90’s competitors offer six- and even eight-cylinder alternatives. Not so in the S90, where performance will leave you disappointed if you want a zero-to-60mph time that starts with a 4. The best the T6 is likely to be able to do is 5.1 seconds, according to our estimates. On the other hand, the T5 will get an EPA combined fuel-economy rating of 27 mpg; the T6 is rated at 25 mpg. Moreover, while Volvo’s engine might have only four cylinders, it’s happy in its work. It idles smoothly and quietly, and we noticed only the occasional hint of a four-cylinder drone in normal driving. Push the car hard and the 2.0-liter sounds purposeful and harmonious as it shifts between 6000 rpm and the 6500-rpm redline. Credit effective active noise cancellation coming through the sound system for the lack of discordant notes. A slightly more assertive soundtrack is available by selecting sport mode. It was hard to evaluate ride quality on the supersmooth Spanish roads we experienced, but body motions were well controlled and the S90 was comfortable, stable, and reassuring—even in rapid driving. Both wind and road noise were low. Unfortunately, the electrically assisted steering makes the S90 feel a bit ponderous; the effort builds quickly as the steering wheel is eased even slightly off-center. Volvo engineers contend that this pronounced self-centering enhances the driver’s sense of straight-line stability, but other cars in its class achieve the same effect with a less overbearing feel. The S90 also can steer itself, using the standard Pilot Assist function. This feature functions at speeds up to 80 mph in conjunction with the adaptive cruise control, and it works well on highways with clear lane markers. However, you can’t remove your hands from the wheel for longer than 15 seconds, and the system can’t keep up with sharp turns on winding roads.
2017 VOLVO S90
VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, frontor all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan BASE PRICE: $47,945–$57,245 ENGINES: turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline-4, 250 hp, 258 lb-ft; turbocharged, supercharged, and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline-4, 316 hp, 295 lb-ft TRANSMISSION: 8-speed automatic with manual shifting mode DIMENSIONS WHEELBASE: 115.8 in LENGTH: 195.4 in WIDTH: 74.0 in HEIGHT: 56.8 in PASSENGER VOLUME: 98 cu ft TRUNK VOLUME: 14 cu ft CURB WEIGHT: 4250–4500 lb PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) ZERO TO 60 MPH: 5.1–6.7 sec ZERO TO 100 MPH: 15.0–16.2 sec 1/4-MILE: 14.1–15.3 sec TOP SPEED: 140–155 mph FUEL ECONOMY EPA COMBINED/CITY/ HWY: 25–27/22–23/ 31–34 mpg
Brake feel is excellent, with a reasonably firm pedal and no dead motion. Interestingly, the brake pedal responds a little more immediately in sport mode, although the feel remains progressive. Inside, the S90 has a clean and uncluttered layout. The key element in this interior is the 9.0-inch, portrait-oriented LCD screen. It controls several of the usual functions, including the climate-control system. As a result, the number of buttons and knobs on the dashboard has been greatly reduced. This upright display works ideally for the navigation function, as it makes visible more of the map depicting the road ahead than does a landscape-oriented screen. Volvo seats have a reputation for comfort and the S90’s do not disappoint. In addition to their standard seat-cushion-length and side-bolster adjustments, the seats are well shaped and properly padded. The rear seats also are comfortable, and the spacious back quarters provide excellent headroom and legroom. Base prices for the T5 and T6 versions range from $47,945 to $57,245. Standard equipment is generous; every S90 comes with Volvo’s full portfolio of safety features, including the semi-autonomous-driving capability, plus a power sunroof, navigation, a proximity key, and LED headlights and taillights. An extensive options list lets you add more than $10,000 to the price of even the top-ofthe-line T6. Still, the prices are lower than the nosebleed levels of the German competition. Next year, a T8 Twin Engine model will appear with the 400-hp plug-in-hybrid powertrain already offered in the XC90. A wagon model, the V90, will arrive around the same time. More new Volvos sharing the S90’s design themes and technologies are on the way. The brand promises that its entire range will be revamped by 2017, and Volvo will have the youngest product range in the industry. As for the S90, it’s solid, comfortable, beautiful, and practical, and it should make Volvo a player in the mid-luxury segment for the first time in a long while. 127