THERE was a time when Volvo’s flagship saloon was all about quiet authority, understated design, effortless comfort and a reassuring sense of safety. The new all-electric Volvo ES90 doesn’t abandon that philosophy, it redefines it.
After spending time behind the wheel, what becomes immediately clear is that this isn’t simply an electric replacement for the S90. It’s something altogether more ambitious. The ES90 feels like Volvo stepping confidently into a new era, and with prices starting from just under £70k, it positions itself firmly in the premium electric market.
At first glance, the ES90 looks like a traditional saloon, long, elegant and unmistakably Volvo. But spend a little time around it, and you realise this is no ordinary four-door. It sits slightly higher than you might expect, with a fastback-style rear that blurs the lines between saloon, hatchback and even SUV. It’s a design that feels deliberate, modern, aerodynamic and, crucially, practical.
That practicality matters. Volvo has clearly thought about how people actually use cars in 2026. The rear opening is wide, the boot is more usable than a traditional saloon, and inside there’s a real sense of space. Rear passengers, in particular, are well catered for, with generous legroom that pushes the car towards limousine territory.
Step inside and the ES90 immediately delivers on expectations. Volvo has long been a master of interior design, but here it feels like the brand has refined its approach even further. The layout is clean and almost minimalist, with high-quality materials used throughout. There’s very little clutter and very few physical buttons, yet it never feels cold or overly digital. Instead, the cabin has a calming, almost Scandinavian lounge-like quality to it.
Out on the road, the cabin is exceptionally quiet, even by electric car standards. Wind noise is minimal, road imperfections are gently absorbed, and the whole experience feels insulated from the outside world. It’s the kind of car that encourages you to slow down, take your time and simply enjoy the journey.
That sense of calm extends to how the ES90 drives. Entry-level versions use a single rear-mounted motor producing around 330hp, which is more than enough for everyday driving. It delivers its power in a smooth, progressive way, building speed effortlessly without any sense of urgency or drama.
For those who want more, twin-motor versions add all-wheel drive and significantly more performance, with range-topping models offering well over 600hp.
Of course, in an electric flagship, range is a key consideration and the ES90 delivers strongly. Depending on the version, official figures exceed 400 miles, putting it among the more capable long-distance electric cars currently available. In real-world terms, that translates to genuine usability, the kind that makes longer journeys feel straightforward rather than something to plan around.
Charging is equally impressive. Thanks to its 800-volt electrical architecture, the ES90 supports ultra-fast charging, meaning a significant recharge can be achieved in a relatively short stop. For many drivers, that removes one of the last remaining barriers to making the switch from petrol or diesel.
Technology is, as you would expect, a major part of the ES90’s appeal, but what stands out is how unobtrusive it feels. The Google-based infotainment system is intuitive and familiar, offering built-in navigation, voice control and seamless connectivity. Over-the-air updates ensure the car continues to improve over time, while a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems works quietly in the background.
Volvo’s long-standing reputation for safety is very much present here, with advanced sensors and next-generation systems designed to enhance awareness and reduce the risk of accidents. Yet unlike some rivals, the ES90 doesn’t overwhelm the driver with unnecessary features or distractions. Everything feels carefully considered and genuinely useful.
With a starting price of £67,560 for the Single Motor Extended Range model, the ES90 undercuts some of its premium rivals while still offering flagship levels of comfort, technology and refinement.
Higher-spec versions, particularly those with dual motors and additional equipment, push into the £80,000-plus bracket, placing the car firmly alongside competitors such as the BMW i5 and Mercedes EQE, although the Volvo takes a notably different approach.
It’s easy to imagine the ES90 being used for long motorway journeys, executive travel or even chauffeur duties, where refinement matters more than outright speed.
The ES90 represents a broader shift for Volvo as a brand. This is a company fully embracing electrification while staying true to its core values of safety, sustainability and understated design. In a market increasingly dominated by SUVs, the ES90 shows there is still a place for a large, luxurious saloon, provided it evolves to meet modern expectations.
After driving it, one thing is clear: this is not a car designed to impress in the traditional sense. It doesn’t shout about performance or try to grab attention with bold styling. Instead, it wins you over gradually.
With its serene driving experience, impressive range, thoughtful design and unmistakable Volvo character, the ES90 feels like a car built for how people actually want to travel today – comfortably, safely and without unnecessary stress.
In many ways, that makes it one of the most appealing electric luxury cars currently on the road.
The Volvo ES90 can be viewed at Caffyns Volvo in Eastbourne. Contact 01323 344510 or visit caffyns.co.uk/volvo
