After a brief hiatus, Volvo is back doing what it does best – making elegant, understated executive cars.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Sure, they’ve never been best-sellers, but previous efforts including the S60, S80 and S90 have consistently given the Germans a run for their money, offering comparable levels of luxury, practicality and performance at a significantly lower price.
Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today Arrow
On paper, the same appears to be true of the new, electric ES90 in flagship Ultra guise.
The large premium electric sedan is bigger, better equipped and roughly as quick as a Mercedes-Benz E-Class or BMW 5 Series/i5, yet up to $50,000 cheaper. It’s pleasant to look at, too, despite riding higher than your typical sedan.
An obvious buy, then? Not necessarily. Read on to find out why.
How much does the Volvo ES90 cost?
The Ultra on test here retails for $107,990 before on-road costs, or $19,110 more than the base Plus.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Model
Price before on-road costs
2027 Volvo ES90 Plus Single Motor
$88,880
2027 Volvo ES90 Ultra Single Motor
$107,990
Be the first to know: Add 7NEWS as your preferred news source on Google
The entry-level variant therefore falls below the $91,387 Luxury Car Tax (LCT) threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles, making it eligible for a Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption under the Electric Car Discount (ECD).
Both variants fall smack bang in the middle of the large electric sedan/liftback sub-segment, splitting rivals including the MG IM5 (from $60,990 drive-away), Lexus ES (from $77,000 plus on-road costs), BMW i5 (from $155,900 plus ORCs), and Genesis G80 Electrified ($156,500 plus ORCs).
Combustion-powered alternatives also deserve the consideration of prospective buyers, namely the hybrid Lexus ES (from $75,000 plus ORCs), turbo-petrol Genesis G80 (from $104,200 plus ORCs), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (from $117,900 plus ORCs), and BMW 5 Series (from $117,400 plus ORCs).
To see how the Volvo ES90 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What is the Volvo ES90 like on the inside?
At least in top Ultra specification, the ES90 is even more luxurious than its price suggests, albeit not for the tech-averse.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
In true Volvo fashion, the seats steal the show. Both the driver and front passenger are enveloped in soft lounge-style leather-clad pews that leave you feeling fresh and relaxed after long journeys. Standard heating and cooling functions ensure this remains the case year-round, while a multi-program massage feature serves as icing on the cake.
There’s no shortage of adjustment available, either. Toggles built into the seat base handle all the basics, while the thigh cushion can be extended for additional support.
The steering column is likewise power-adjustable and therefore able to tilt and telescope with precision, so it’s near impossible to feel uncomfortable behind the wheel, particularly given the the sense of space overhead.
Speaking of, the steering wheel is a highlight in itself – sculpted, perfectly sized and finished in textured two-tone leatherette, with heating for colder mornings. It sits beautifully in the hands.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
In fact, just about every surface inside the ES90 feels soft and/or upscale.
The dash and door cards are generously padded from top to bottom – something not every German rival can claim – while open-pore wood trim across both areas elevates their appearance.
And while physical buttons and dials have mostly been discarded, the few that remain scream ‘premium’, particularly the crystal audio volume roller at the base of the infotainment screen. Admittedly, it’s not quite as eye-catching or as satisfying to use as the Orrefors gear selector found in other high-end Volvo models.
I wouldn’t necessarily recommend the ‘Dawn’ interior colourway, though. Our test car was already showing signs of discolouration and wear, with grubby marks on the sill trims and visible staining on the seat bolsters. So although the light colour palette has plenty of wow-factor when fresh, I’d be wary of how it might present after several years without fastidious maintenance.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
I’m also inclined to question the reliability and long-term performance of the ES90’s in-car tech, which proved patchy during our weeklong loan. At one point the skip track button on the steering wheel simply stopped working, while Apple CarPlay displayed as a black screen during a separate journey.
As always, I opted for a wireless CarPlay connection, although there’s also the option to pair (or charge) your phone using a USB-C cable.
When working as it should, the Google-based infotainment system is bright, vibrant, responsive and packed with functionality, for both better and worse.
Built-in Google Maps, access to the Google Play store and an app dedicated to configuration of the crisp and powerful Bowers and Wilkins sound system land on the positive side of that ledger. Unnecessary digitisation of the side mirror and climate controls, on the other hand, do not.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Volvo has at least put some effort into bringing commonly used functions to the fore, chiefly through dynamic shortcut icons that change depending on the driving scenario. A shortcut to open the glovebox – disappointingly, there’s no manual mechanism – appears when you’re sat stationary, for example.
And even when you are forced to go searching for something, the menus make sense and all the icons are clearly labelled.
No poking or prodding is required to get a read on key driving information including speed, safety alerts and driving range, all of which is housed across both a steering column-mounted instrument display and a windscreen head-up display. The latter is relatively unremarkable, but the former is noteworthy for its close proximity to the driver, making it easier to read.
So while Skoda espouses itself as the ‘Simply Clever’ brand, the Swedes are clearly pretty switched on too.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
That said, the ES90 loses points for its glossy black steering wheel buttons. They’re unseparated, meaning you’re more likely to hit the wrong one without taking your eyes off the road.
And the storage space available up front is merely adequate for a large passenger vehicle. You get wide, rubber-lined door bins, a felt-lined armrest compartment, two cupholders, a wireless phone charger, and that pesky electric glovebox.
The comfort and quality up front is mirrored in the second row, where the ES90 really puts its rivals to shame.
In the back, most luxury executive cars at this price point offer decent space, ambience and… not much else, whereas the top-spec ES90 goes far further than that.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Beyond being supremely comfortable, the outboard rear seats are equipped with most of the same toys as those up front. I’m talking multiple levels of heating and ventilation, plus powered recline adjustment via buttons near the window switches. Pretty bougie, huh?
All versions of the ES90 are similarly generous in the legroom department, allowing six-footers to stretch out without worrying about grazed knees.
Foot space under the front pews is more limited, though, and the stadium-style elevated seating arrangement has a negative impact on headroom, limiting passenger height to around six-four. Still, most adults won’t complain.
Fancy seat features aside, amenities include dual-zone climate control, a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders and hidden storage, wide door pockets, and a pair of rear-facing USB-C outlets. Again, little to complain about.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Further back, the ES90 offers 446 litres of boot space accessible via a powered liftback tailgate.
The capacity figure itself isn’t all that impressive, beaten by that of the i5, IM5, E-Class and Lexus ES.
However, the ES90’s aforementioned liftback tailgate affords far better boot access than a sedan bootlid, and the loading area is wide, flat, deep and height-adjustable. As a result, it’s easy to fill the boot with just about anything, from shopping bags to large suitcases.
Planning an IKEA run? The rear seats fold close to flat, creating a cavernous storage space perfect for flatpack furniture.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
There’s also a handy underfloor compartment for charging cables, along with cargo tie-down points, side storage nets, and a 12V power outlet.
A small front storage compartment provides additional space for charging cables or overflow groceries, though there’s no conventional spare wheel.
Dimensions
Volvo ES90
Length
5000mm
Width
2120mm
Height
1554mm
Wheelbase
3102mm
Cargo capacity
446L – rear seats up1427L – rear seats folded27L – under-bonnet storage
To see how the Volvo ES90 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
In Australia, the ES90 is powered by a single, rear-mounted electric motor teamed with a 92kWh battery, although it can be had with dual-motor all-wheel drive and a larger battery overseas.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Specifications
Volvo ES90 Ultra Single Motor
Drivetrain
Single-motor electric
Battery
92kWh lithium-ion
Power
245kW
Torque
480Nm
Drive type
Rear-wheel drive
Weight
2410kg
0-100km/h (claimed)
6.6 seconds
Energy consumption (claimed)
18.5kWh/100km
Energy consumption (as tested)
17.0kWh/100km
Claimed range (WLTP)
554km
Max AC charge rate
11kW
Max DC charge rate
300kW
Braked towing capacity
1600kg
All versions use an 800V electrical architecture and ride on the same SPA2 platform that underpins the EX90 electric SUV.
Volvo claims the ES90 can add 300km of range in just 10 minutes when hooked up to a 350kW DC fast-charger, although such chargers remain relatively scarce in Australia.
To see how the Volvo ES90 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How does the Volvo ES90 drive?
Despite their intended purpose, large executive sedans just keep getting faster, firmer and generally more sporty, but Volvo has gone against the grain with its new entry.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Unlike its German rivals, the ES90 is unashamedly soft, prioritising comfort over all else.
That’s especially true of the Ultra, which rides on active air suspension that soaks up just about any rut or pothole Australian roads can throw at it in its Soft setting. The downside is a decidedly floaty feel, with some excess vertical movement over speed bumps and longer undulations.
Switching to Firm mode reins that in, but only by making the ride noticeably busier, without transforming the ES90 into anything approaching a sharp driving tool.
Because no matter how you set it up, this is a big, boaty luxury liftback that changes direction with the urgency of a tradie on the job at three o’clock on a Friday.
Its 2.4-tonne kerb weight certainly plays a role, although most of that heft is concentrated low in the chassis – exactly where you want it. Even so, the high-riding ES90 never hugs the road as tightly as a conventional sedan.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Don’t expect much encouragement from the steering either, as it’s light, slow and uncommunicative in both its settings, geared more towards easing the burden of city commuting than rewarding you on a winding road.
That’s perfectly fine, as vehicles like the ES90 should endeavour to make life easier, not necessarily more exciting.
And BMW – in this case with the i5 – will always be there for those after a luxury vehicle that steers like a sports car.
The ES90’s relaxed personality extends to its powertrain, where a modest single-motor setup delivers smooth, progressive acceleration rather than the stomach-rearranging thrust we’ve come to expect from high-end EVs. It’s unintimidating as a result – unlikely to ever spin up the rear tyres, yet still responsive around town and punchy enough to reach highway speeds without fuss.
Sure, all-wheel drive would add another layer of security in the wet, but it wasn’t missed during our test.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Again, look to the likes of the IM5, Model 3, i5 and G80 if your performance expectations extend any further.
But if refinement and cruising capability are of greater interest, it’s best you keep reading, as the ES90 has both these bases covered.
Its cabin is impressively isolated from the outside world, with thick glass, substantial doors and layers of sound deadening keeping wind and road noise to a minimum.
Combine that with the cushy suspension and smooth power delivery, and the ES90 eats up highway kilometres with ease. Its stalk-activated cruise control system also works well, offering confident lane-centring and straightforward speed adjustment via the steering wheel controls.
This should hardly come as a surprise given Volvo’s reputation for safety, nor should the competence of the remaining advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), save for a strict driver distraction monitor.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Poor rearward visibility through the letterbox-style back window, however, feels weirdly at odds with Volvo’s safety-first philosophy.
Thankfully, parking is made easier by a comprehensive suite of high-resolution cameras. And while the ES90 is a long car – five metres from nose to tail, to be exact – it doesn’t feel especially wide, so narrow laneways shouldn’t raise alarm bells.
Similarly, steep driveways such as my own require little negotiation thanks to the ES90’s raised stance, which protects it from the clearance headaches that plague lower-slung sedans such as the E-Class and 5 Series.
The Ultra also sports an Off-road mode, which holds the suspension at its maximum ride height at speeds of up to 35km/h – handy not only for those regular occasions you venture off the beaten track in your rear-wheel drive Volvo sedan… but also for tackling awkward urban obstacles.
Somewhat surprisingly, there are no further preset drive modes, which leads into one of my central complaints about the driving experience – limited configurability.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
That mightn’t sound right given everything you’ve read so far, but hear me out. Starting with the suspension, it’s essentially a choice between sitting atop a jumping pillow or a FatBlaster machine, and there’s no middle ground. The steering suffers from a similar lack of choice, offering two levels of weighting that are both very, very light.
My biggest gripe, however, is with the regenerative braking system. Because while many mainstream EVs offer multi-level regen with steering wheel paddle adjustment, the ES90 limits you to Off, Auto and One-Pedal settings.
The latter, as you might expect, slows the car aggressively when you come off the throttle. Too aggressively, if you ask me. Auto, on the other hand, varies deceleration depending on traffic conditions, leaving no option for a consistent, moderate level of regen.
The brake pedal, thankfully, is smooth and progressive in its operation. As such, I found myself leaving regen off and driving the ES90 much like an ICE car – something that really shouldn’t be necessary in a luxury EV.
Adding insult to injury, the few adjustments available are buried in the touchscreen, and its dynamic shortcut bar doesn’t always provide immediate access to the relevant vehicle settings.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
So for all the criticism modern luxury cars attract for being overcomplicated, the ES90 arguably goes too far the other way.
Well, aside from the startup procedure, which becomes annoyingly convoluted if you’re relying on the physical key card, as I did.
First, it needs to be removed from its pouch and tapped against the driver’s door handle to unlock the car – there’s no equivalent reader on the passenger side. Then, once inside, the card has to be placed on the wireless charging pad before you can select a gear.
In other words, there’s no conventional keyless entry, no keyless start and no way to lock or unlock the car from a distance using the NFC card.
Granted, this will likely push owners to use the smartphone-based digital key, which does provide conventional proximity-style access.
To see how the Volvo ES90 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What do you get?
The Ultra sits at the top of a two-trim local lineup.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
2027 Volvo ES90 Plus equipment highlights:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Adaptive suspension
- Automatic LED headlights
- Digital Key Plus
- NFC smart card key
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Heated wiper blades
- Power tailgate
- Fixed panoramic glass roof
- 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Google built-in (includes embedded Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play Store)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay
- DAB+ digital radio
- Head-up display
- Power-adjustable steering column
- Heated, leatherette-wrapped steering wheel
- Birch inlays
- Nordico leatherette seat upholstery
- 8-way power driver’s seat with memory
- 8-way power passenger seat
- 14-speaker Bose sound system
- Wireless phone charger
- Four-zone climate control
- Heat pump
- Rear centre armrest
The Ultra adds:
- 22-inch alloy wheels
- Active air suspension
- Pixel LED headlights with adaptive high-beam
- Electrochromic panoramic fixed glass roof
- Illuminated door handles
- 25-speaker 1610W Bowers & Wilkins sound system
- Light Ash inlays
- Ventilated Nordico or Nappa leather upholstery
- Massaging front seats
- Ventilated front seats
- Ventilated rear seats
- Power reclining rear seats
- Rear ‘lounge’ centre armrest
To see how the Volvo ES90 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
Is the Volvo ES90 safe?
The ES90 is yet to be assessed by ANCAP or Euro NCAP, although being a Volvo it’s sufficiently loaded with safety features, both passive and active.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Standard safety features include:
- 7 airbags
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Driver attention monitoring
- Front cross-traffic assist
- Lane-keep assist
- Pedestrian and cyclist steering avoidance
- Pilot Assist (adaptive cruise control + lane-centring)
- Rear cross-traffic assist
- Rear occupant detection (radar-based)
- Safe exit warning
- Surround-view camera with 3D view
- Traffic sign recognition
To see how the Volvo ES90 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How much does the Volvo ES90 cost to run?
Volvo backs its cars in Australia with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Servicing and Warranty
Volvo ES90
Warranty
5 years, unlimited kilometres – vehicle8 years or 160,000km – high-voltage battery
Roadside assistance
5 years
Service intervals
24 months or 30,000km
Capped-price servicing
6 years
Average annual service cost
$248 – Electric Service Plan$498 – Electric Service Plan Plus
Total capped-price service cost
$1490 – Electric Service Plan $2990 – Electric Service Plan Plus
Up until recently the Swedish automaker also threw in five years of free servicing, but no more. Instead, buyers can now choose between two different service plans, both of which cover the first three services.
The basic plan is very reasonably priced, particularly given the ES90 only requires a trip to the dealership every two years.
To see how the Volvo ES90 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Volvo ES90
Utterly compelling on paper, ever-so-slightly less so in the real world.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Despite solid specs, the driving experience is a mixed bag. On one hand, the ES90 Ultra impresses with its cosseting suspension, smooth powertrain, outstanding refinement, and agreeable safety systems. On the other, disconnected steering, limited configurability and obstructed rear visibility disappoint.
The interior, meanwhile, is undeniably spacious and luxurious, yet let down by all-consuming, unreliable software.
With all that in mind, I’d argue the ES90 is best experienced from the back seat, where neither its driving quirks nor infotainment frustrations are likely to bother you.
2027 Volvo ES90 Credit: CarExpert
Painted black, it would make a superb chauffeur vehicle.
But for those who prefer to drive themselves, I’d instead lean towards the Lexus ES. It feels more cohesive from behind the wheel and costs around $30,000 less in single-motor guise.
Of course, a European badge remains non-negotiable for some buyers. Against its German rivals, the ES90 represents far stronger value, reinforced by its cabin comfort and uniquely supple ride.
Interested in buying a Volvo ES90? Let CarExpert find you the best deal here
MORE: Explore the Volvo ES90 showroom
Pros
- Liftback looks with SUV practicality
- Quiet and comfortable
- Priced far lower than Euro alternatives
Cons
- Too reliant on tech
- Limited control over regen braking
- No spare wheel
