2018 Volvo S90 T6 AWD Inscription

A big, comfortable, attractive sedan
By Durhl Caussey
Durhl Caussey
Durhl Caussey
April 30, 2018Updated: April 30, 2018

The power of the Volvo S90 T6 Inscription is built around the 2.0 L direct-injected turbo and supercharged engine. The engine cranks out a peak of 316 horsepower at 5,700 RPM and 295 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,700 RPM. This power is carried to the wheels by an eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission with start/stop and adaptive shift.

The rated fuel economy is 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, for 25 mpg combined. Quick math translates this into exactly 4 gallons to go 100 miles.

In the production of the 2018 Volvo S90 Inscription, there appears to be more focus on style, comfort, and design rather than raw speed or power. Of course, safety is ever present in the minds of Volvo engineers when developing any product.

Safety and convenience items like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob, leather upholstery, door handle lights, road sign information, and a lane-keeping aid are examples of that philosophy.

The sleek interior design is what I like best about the S90 sedan. The seats are comfortable and the Inscription package ($4,500) greatly enhanced the interior feel. The Linear Walnut Wood inlays accentuate the cabin for an admirable good look, while heated and ventilated Nappa Leather front seats, with power side support, power cushion extension, 10-way power adjustment, and driver memory, add to that comfort.

Epoch Times Photo
Inside the 2018 S90. (Courtesy of Volvo)

Access to most of the primary and secondary controls is found on a tablet-like 9-inch vertical digital instrument control display. However, I personally prefer the use of physical buttons and knobs.

Whether you select talk or music stations, Bluetooth hands-free with audio streaming, smartphone integration, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio add to the atmosphere of the cabin.

The 2017 Volvo S90 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick because the car received the highest rating of “good” in all five crash tests. It also received the highest rating of “superior” for front crash prevention, thanks to its warning system that ensures the driver is immediately aware of a possible collision. I expect no changes once the IIHS makes a final decision for the 2018 model year.

Several features make me believe that this vehicle’s superb safety rating is assured. Those include its front collision mitigation support, pedestrian/cyclist/large animal detection, Pilot Assist semi-autonomous drive system, blind-spot information system, adaptive cruise control, and dual-stage driver and passenger airbags.

An interesting fact: “The S90 uses a multi-link rear suspension with a transverse leaf-spring, a very uncommon type of suspension set up for premium sedans.” However, Volvo has found that this type of suspension fits the S90 by providing additional comfort and safety benefits.

The exterior features dual integrated tailpipes, 19-inch alloy wheels with all-weather tires, LED headlights and fog lamps with corner illumination, daytime running lights, and a 360-degree camera system. Together they give the S90 an attractive appearance and a high degree of styling.

Volvo appears to have traded power and speed for comfort, style, spaciousness, and luxury, but without destroying the spirit and fun-to-drive appeal of the vehicle.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the new S90 starts at $54,100.

Warranty
48-month/50,000-mile New Car Basic Warranty
48-month/50,000-mile Powertrain Warranty
144-month/unlimited-mile Corrosion Perforation Warranty
48-month/unlimited-mile Roadside Assistance

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this publication or at [email protected].