- Volvo’s new flagship
- Up to 424 miles of range
- High refinement and 800v charging
Volvo’s new flagship EV combines premium comfort, advanced safety technology and up to 424 miles of WLTP range in a distinctive fastback body style.
Overview
The Volvo ES90 marks the Swedish manufacturer’s latest step in its transition to an electrified future. Positioned as the spiritual successor to the S90 saloon, the ES90 adopts a more contemporary approach, combining elements of a traditional executive saloon, fastback and SUV.
Built on Volvo’s latest electric vehicle architecture, shared with the EX90 and Polestar 3, the ES90 benefits from the latest developments within the Geely Group, including an 800-volt electrical system designed to deliver faster charging and improved efficiency.
The ES90’s arrival follows a period of refinement for Volvo’s next-generation EV platform, with early software and production challenges now largely resolved. The result is a premium electric executive car that combines Scandinavian design, long-distance comfort and competitive range credentials.
With prices starting from £67,495, the ES90 undercuts several established premium rivals, including the Audi A6 e-tron, BMW i5 and Mercedes-Benz EQE, while also competing with models such as the Genesis Electrified G80.
Visually, the ES90 follows Volvo’s established design language, featuring clean surfaces, minimalist detailing and an understated premium appearance that will appeal to buyers seeking an alternative to the more overt styling adopted by some competitors.
Pricing and Spec
The ES90 range opens with the Single Motor Extended Range model and is available in either Plus or Ultra trim levels.
Three powertrain options are offered:
- Single Motor Extended Range Plus – £67,560
- Single Motor Extended Range Ultra – £77,260
- Twin Motor Ultra – £81,460
- Twin Motor Performance – £86,060
Plus models feature Volvo’s Nordico upholstery, along with heated front and rear seats as standard. Stepping up to Ultra trim adds features including ventilated front seats, a massage function and air suspension.
The Single Motor Extended Range has 333PS and uses an 88kWh usable battery, while Twin Motor variants benefit from a larger 102kWh battery pack and a power boost to 456PS. The range-topping performance version uses the same 102kWh battery but has 680PS. Depending on specification, the ES90 offers a claimed WLTP range of up to 424 miles.
Technology
A large portrait-oriented touchscreen dominates the ES90’s dashboard, reflecting Volvo’s increasingly digital approach to vehicle controls. The display offers sharp graphics and a streamlined user interface, while Google-based software integration provides built-in Google Maps navigation, Google Assistant voice control and access to a range of connected services and media applications.
The system’s functionality reduces the need for smartphone connectivity, with many commonly used applications available directly through the vehicle.
While Volvo has introduced shortcut menus to improve usability, a significant number of vehicle functions are controlled through the touchscreen. This includes adjustments for features that traditionally use physical controls, such as door mirrors and certain vehicle settings, which may divide opinion among some users.
Technology features also include adaptive cruise control, semi-automated parking assistance and a surround-view camera system.
Safety
Safety remains central to Volvo’s brand identity and the ES90 continues that tradition with a comprehensive suite of passive and active safety technologies.
Although the ES90 had not yet been tested by Euro NCAP at the time of writing, expectations are high given the closely related EX90’s strong performance in independent safety assessments.
Standard driver assistance systems include autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assistance and blind spot monitoring. The vehicle is designed to identify a wide range of potential collision scenarios and can intervene when necessary to help avoid or mitigate incidents.
Volvo’s driver monitoring technology is also fitted, while the speed assistance system can either provide audible alerts or use a haptic accelerator pedal that encourages drivers to remain within posted speed limits without relying on repeated warning sounds.
Notably, many of the assistance systems are well calibrated and avoid excessive intervention during everyday driving.
Driving Experience
Initial impressions of the ES90 Single Motor Extended Range suggest Volvo has prioritised comfort and refinement over outright sporting dynamics.
Producing 333PS, the entry-level model accelerates from 0-62mph in 6.6 seconds, providing strong performance for everyday driving and motorway overtaking. While more powerful Twin Motor variants are available, the Single Motor version feels well suited to the car’s relaxed character.
Ultra models equipped with air suspension deliver particularly impressive ride quality. The system adapts to both road conditions and driving style, helping to balance comfort, stability and body control. Long-distance refinement is a particular strength, with excellent insulation from road and wind noise.
Plus models use a conventional suspension setup but still offer the composed ride quality expected in the executive EV segment.
During testing, the Single Motor model achieved around 3.5 miles per kWh, suggesting a real-world driving range of approximately 300 miles. While lower than the official WLTP figure of up to 411 miles, this remains competitive within the segment and compares favourably with key rivals.
The ES90’s 800-volt architecture also supports rapid charging, enabling a 10-80% recharge in as little as 22 minutes when connected to a suitable 350kW DC charger.
Practicality
At around five metres in length, the ES90 sits firmly within the executive car segment and offers generous accommodation for occupants.
Rear passenger space is particularly impressive, with a spacious cabin layout that enhances the feeling of openness. Rather than pursuing a sporty, driver-focused environment, Volvo has prioritised comfort and ease of use.
The front seats continue Volvo’s reputation for long-distance comfort, offering extensive adjustment and strong support for extended journeys.
Unlike some traditional executive saloons, the ES90’s fastback design incorporates a large tailgate, improving access to the load area and enhancing everyday usability. While the 424-litre boot capacity is not class-leading, the hatchback opening and folding rear seats make the load space more versatile than the figure alone suggests.
Interior material quality is strong throughout, with a premium finish that aligns with customer expectations in this segment while supporting Volvo’s ongoing sustainability objectives.