2016 Volvo S90 D4 Review: Comfort, Safety, Value Guide

The 2016 Volvo S90 D4 arrives as a bold entry in the executive saloon market, blending Scandinavian design flair with practical luxury and forward-thinking technology. Powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 190hp, this front-wheel-drive model pairs efficiency with refined performance, making it an appealing choice for long-distance drivers seeking comfort without excess.

Striking Exterior Design and Build Quality

Volvo’s signature ‘Thor’s Hammer’ LED headlights dominate the S90’s front fascia, giving it a distinctive, aggressive stance that sets it apart from more conservative rivals. The sculpted lines flow smoothly into a fastback-style roofline, enhancing its elegant profile while maintaining a substantial road presence suitable for business professionals.

Built on the scalable SPA platform shared with the XC90 SUV, the S90 benefits from high-strength boron steel in key areas, contributing to its renowned safety credentials. The bodywork feels solid, with tight panel gaps and a premium paint finish that resists chipping. At 4.96 meters long, it commands attention on motorways yet maneuvers surprisingly well in urban settings.

• Sleek, aerodynamic shape with a low drag coefficient for better fuel economy.
• Standard 18-inch alloys (upgradable to 19s) wrapped in grippy tires.
• Available in multiple colors, including eye-catching metallic blues and greys.

Luxurious Interior: Comfort Meets Innovation

Step inside, and the S90’s cabin impresses with its airy, minimalist layout. A panoramic sunroof floods the space with natural light, while soft leather upholstery in the Inscription trim envelops occupants in comfort. Real wood inlays and brushed metal accents elevate the perceived quality, rivaling pricier German interiors.

The nine-inch vertical touchscreen serves as the nerve center, controlling navigation, audio, and climate via intuitive menus. Physical buttons for key functions ensure ease of use, even for technophobes. Rear passengers enjoy ample legroom and reclining seats, with optional four-zone climate control keeping everyone content on extended trips.

Engine Performance: Balanced Power and Efficiency

The D4’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel delivers 190hp and a robust 400Nm of torque from low revs, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup propels the S90 from 0-62mph in around 8.2 seconds, adequate for overtaking but not exhilarating. The gearbox shifts smoothly in normal mode, though it can hunt gears under hard acceleration.

Owners praise its motorway manners, with real-world economy often exceeding 50mpg on long runs. However, cold starts reveal some diesel clatter, which fades as the engine warms. For those needing more punch, the D5 variant with AWD and 235hp offers a worthwhile upgrade.

• Official figures: 64.2mpg combined, 116g/km CO2.
• Strong mid-range pull ideal for cruising.
• Mild turbo lag noticeable from standstill.

Driving Dynamics: Comfort Over Sportiness

Tuned for serenity, the S90 glides over imperfections thanks to its supple suspension and noise insulation. Double wishbone front and multi-link rear setup absorbs bumps effectively, though sharper corners reveal some body roll compared to sportier foes like the BMW 5 Series.

Steering is light and accurate, with good feedback at speed. The front-drive layout keeps costs down, but traction is assured via stability systems. It’s not the most engaging drive, prioritizing relaxation for commuters and fleet buyers.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Volvo’s Hallmark Strengths

Safety remains Volvo’s forte, with the S90 earning top Euro NCAP ratings. Standard kit includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB) detecting pedestrians and cyclists, lane-keeping aid, and seven airbags. The star is Pilot Assist II, enabling semi-autonomous driving up to 80mph on marked roads—keeping lane and distance without constant input, though hands must stay on the wheel.

Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert enhance peace of mind. This tech suite positions the S90 ahead of many contemporaries in proactive safety.

Trim Levels, Pricing, and Value Proposition

Starting around £35,000 for Inscription, the S90 undercuts equivalents from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes while packing more standard luxury. Momentum trim adds basics, R-Design brings sportier looks, and Excellence tops with bespoke options.

Rivals may offer sharper dynamics, but few match the S90’s equipment-to-price ratio, appealing to value-conscious buyers.

Reliability, Ownership Costs, and Long-Term Appeal

Volvo’s reputation for durability shines through, with owners reporting few issues beyond minor infotainment glitches. Servicing intervals at 18,000 miles keep costs reasonable, and the diesel’s efficiency slashes fuel bills. Residual values hold steady, bolstered by strong demand in the used market.

• Insurance group: 24-28 (moderate).
• Warranty: 3 years/60,000 miles.
• Used prices: £15,000-£20,000 for low-mileage examples.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Stunning design, plush interior, excellent safety tech, strong economy, generous kit.
• Cons: Not the most dynamic, boot slightly small, diesel noise on cold starts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2016 Volvo S90 D4 reliable?

Yes, it inherits Volvo’s solid build quality, with owners noting minimal issues and good longevity for high-mileage use.

How fuel-efficient is the D4 engine?

Expect 50-55mpg on motorways, with official claims of 64.2mpg combined.

Does it have self-driving capabilities?

Pilot Assist provides semi-autonomous lane-keeping and adaptive cruise up to 80mph, a class leader in 2016.

How does it compare to the BMW 5 Series?

The S90 excels in comfort and value but trails in handling agility.

What’s the boot space like?

500 litres is practical for most, though rivals offer more.

Final Verdict: A Compelling Executive Choice

The 2016 Volvo S90 D4 redefines expectations in its class, offering premium features, safety innovation, and efficiency at a bargain price. Ideal for those prioritizing comfort and tech over outright sportiness, it remains a smart used buy today.