Volvo Reimagines the Saloon with the ES90

A large, luxurious Volvo is well-suited to the challenging roads of Britain, but does the 2026 ES90 deliver? Volvo has a rich history of crafting spacious and comfortable saloons, often featuring turbocharged engines. While the XC90 SUV has dominated recent Volvo lineups, the ES90 marks a return to the traditional saloon form, albeit with a modern, electric twist.

A Nod to Volvo's Heritage

Evolution of the Volvo Saloon

The UK launch of the ES90 included a display of a classic 1990s S90, highlighting Volvo’s long-standing commitment to the saloon body style. The previous S90 was produced until 2024, paving the way for this all-electric successor. The ES90 competes directly with models like the Mercedes-Benz EQE, BMW i5, and Porsche Taycan, offering a unique Scandinavian approach to the luxury EV segment.

Distinctive Design and Interior Comfort

The ES90 boasts a handsome and distinctive exterior design, setting it apart from competitors like the 5 Series and even the Porsche Taycan. Its styling blends hatchback and SUV elements, creating a visually appealing and confident stance. Funky light signatures further enhance its modern aesthetic.

Scandi-Chic Interior

Inside, the ES90 embraces Scandinavian design principles with light leathers, woods, and ample glass creating a bright and airy cabin. The seats are exceptionally comfortable, and the steering wheel is a surprisingly delightful feature – small, thin, and well-equipped with controls. A sharp, minimalist driver’s display provides essential information without being overwhelming.

However, the large central touchscreen, while responsive, doesn’t necessarily enhance the feeling of luxury. The addition of tactile dials for climate control and volume, or even the option to conceal the screen, would elevate the interior ambience.

Space and Practicality

Despite its considerable wheelbase, rear passenger space in the ES90 is somewhat limited due to the footwell design. While headroom and shoulder room are adequate, knee room can feel cramped. The boot offers 424 litres of capacity, which is likely sufficient for most needs.

Serene Driving Experience

The ES90 excels in providing a serene and composed driving experience. Even on poorly maintained roads, the car remains remarkably unruffled, thanks to its impressive wheel and body control. The slightly raised ride height, generous tyre profile (on 21-inch wheels), and expertly tuned suspension contribute to exceptional ride comfort.

Effortless Performance and Efficiency

With a drag coefficient of 0.25, the ES90 glides through the air with minimal noise. The primary source of sound intrusion is tyre roar, but even that is well-contained. The car’s efficiency is commendable, with a potential range of over 250 motorway miles even with reduced efficiency of 3mi/kWh. It also supports DC fast charging at over 300kW.

Handling and Dynamics

The ES90 handles surprisingly well for a 2.5-tonne vehicle, offering confident cornering capabilities. While it doesn’t prioritize sporty driving dynamics like an i5, it provides ample traction and stability. The brake pedal is responsive, though the regenerative braking is quite strong, and the steering feel is somewhat detached.

A Compelling Alternative

The 2026 Volvo ES90 is a comfortable, cool, and capable cruiser that embodies the Swedish approach to automotive design. While it may not appeal to those seeking a traditional sports saloon, it offers a unique and appealing alternative to German rivals. Despite concerns about the cost of large electric vehicles and depreciation, the ES90’s rarity and quality may attract discerning buyers. It represents Volvo at its best, delivering a reassuringly familiar experience with a forward-looking electric powertrain. The ES90 utilizes an 800V Lithium-ion battery with 88kWh useable capacity.