2017 Volvo S90 Pros vs Cons
What's new for 2017
The Volvo S90 brings about enterprise-class features that posture as a worthy successor to the Volvo S80. The most intriguing feature of the 2017 Volvo S90 comes in the form of its semi-self-driving autonomous features in the new Pilot Assist technology. In terms of power and control, the 2017 Volvo S90 delivers with an impressive array of powerful diesel, gasoline and hybrid offerings.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2017 Volvo S90 – The Pros
1. Four Model Options
The 2017 Volvo S90 comes in four different model options to suit your budget. The T5 Momentum is the base-level S90, and it offers a 250 horsepower engine with an impressive 34 mpg. Next up is the T5 Inscription with a 250 horsepower engine, upgraded interior options and a mesmerizing 34 mpg. For those who need luxury, the T6 AWD Momentum should fit the bill with a 316 horsepower engine and 31 mpg. Finally, the creme of the crop T6 AWD Inscription offers better stability, 316 horsepower and an exciting 31 mpg.
2. Four-Zone Climate Control
The T5 Inscription and the T6 AWD Inscription come with an impressive four-zone climate control as standard equipment. The Momentum models offer the four-zone automatic climate control as an added option. Four-zone climate control is rare in a vehicle, but the impact it has on your passenger is noticeable. They will love having their own controls.
3. Incredible Fuel Economy
It used to be that getting a vehicle that boasted good fuel economy meant sacrificing on the engine. Not so with the 2017 Volvo S90. Your mileage will vary depending on the model you choose. Opt for the standard two-wheel drive option and you'll muster 34 mpg. If stability and control are more important to you, then the AWD options still output 31 mpg.
4. Enhanced Audio Options
The Inscription models come with support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you want this in the Momentum models, you'll have to add it as an optional component. Controlling your music using your iPhone or Android device is well worth the small additional investment, and you'll get concert-sized sound with the impressive audio system.
5. Collision Avoidance Technology
All of the models come with advanced collision avoidance technology. This technology activates when the vehicle senses an impending collision. Depending on the nature of the collision, it may brake or attempt to circumvent the accident altogether. As a brand, Volvo has the goal of making it so that no individual will be hurt or killed in a new Volvo car by the year 2020.
6. Heated Front Seats
Of the four models, only the T5 Momentum doesn't provide the luxury of heated front seats as standard equipment. If you want the heated front seats on the T5 Momentum, they are considered optional equipment. Heated front seats are ideal for those cold winter days to help you stay warm and primed for action.
7. Premium Seating Options
Inscription models come with Nappa premium leather as standard equipment. This leather wraps and conforms to your body to give you one of the most enjoyable driving experiences possible. The Momentum models don't offer Nappa leather, but you'll still benefit from their comfort leather option that blows cloth seats away.
8. Perfection With a Pinch or Swipe
The dashboard on the new Volvo offers an incredible view that should be extremely intuitive for anyone who has used a smartphone. Pinch and swipe your way through the controls to organize and customize your media, temperature and vehicle settings. Spend a little time setting up your vehicle, and you'll be rewarded with a highly responsive system that is designed to please.
9. Smooth Driving Performance
While the AWD versions offer the smoothest and most stable driving conditions, the response of all of the models is fluid and controlled. Soak up the asphalt as you glide through city or highway streets effortlessly. With an eight-speed transmission, you can expect to experience smooth transitions between gears that aim to make driving a meditative experience.
10. Exquisite Parking Assistance
You don't need a personal driver to enjoy the exceptional parking assistance features in the 2017 Volvo S90. Don't second-guess your parking decision with the intuitive Park Assist Pilot that first determines if your space is big enough for the vehicle, and then helps you navigate effortlessly into your preferred parking spot. The vehicle turns the steering wheel for you, all you have to do is follow the instructions.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2017 Volvo S90 – The Cons
1. Premium Features at a Cost
If you're looking to buy a car on a budget, the 2017 Volvo S90 is not the car for you. However, if you want a safe car that could very well save you thousands in medical bills in the event of an accident, then the 2017 Volvo S90 can be considered money well-spent. This vehicle is a high-end vehicle, but you definitely get what you pay for.
2. It's Not a Coupe
This vehicle won't appeal to the speed demon who wants to take turns at a moment's notice and stop on a dime. To be certain, this vehicle comes with outstanding driving controls, but it's not the sports car that you may want it to be. The vehicle's size makes sport-like performance unrealistic.
3. Rear End Design
The front of the vehicle is noticeably more attractive than the rear of the vehicle. While this won't detract from the exceptional features, handling and comfort, it may be a deal-breaker for those who want a vehicle to be as attractive on the outside as it is on the inside.
4. Autonomous Driving Requires Nerve
Using the semi-autonomous driving features takes some getting used to. It's tough to sit back and trust that the vehicle will help you avoid accidents. Additionally, when the features kick in on the highway, it may initially feel strange to the driver. However, these features are exceptional and well-designed so there is no need to worry.
5. Mixed Performance Reviews
The engine on the 2017 Volvo S90 has drawn mixed reviews. Some drivers feel that the models using the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine fail to match the performance of comparable four-cylinder models from other manufacturers.
How it stacks up to the competition:
It takes a village to judge a vehicle and the 2017 Volvo S90 is complex and nuanced. If you want luxury, safety and convenience, the S90 is probably going to make you fall in love. If you want speed, tight handling and sports performance, you're probably not going to love this car. However, even the die-hard sports driver has to admit this vehicle is slick. If you want something more sporty, both the AWD Audio A6 and the AWD Cadillac CTS slightly outperform the S90.
Conclusion
Car buying is an individual choice, and you have to choose the vehicle that fits your personality and driving style. If you're comfortable giving up a bit of driving control, then the S90 is amped up and ready to keep you safe on the road. If you want control of every gear and nuance while driving, the 2017 Volvo S90 may leave you feeling a bit lackluster. Regardless, it's an exceptional vehicle that should make any owner proud.
