On May 29, the new Volvo S90 was officially launched in China, offering seven variants with limited-time prices ranging from RMB 300,900 to USD 42,100–63,700. The B5 models are priced at USD 42,100–51,100, while the T8 plug-in hybrid models are USD 52,000–63,700
For comparison, the outgoing S90 B5 was priced at USD 56,900–70,800, and the S90 T8 at USD 69,900–85,900). This means the new B5 starts USD 14,000 lower, while the T8 is USD 16,800 cheaper.
Design and Interior Updates
Positioned as a second facelift, the new S90 updates both exterior and interior styling. Powertrain options remain the same: a 2.0T + 48V mild hybrid and a PHEV system.
Visually, the S90 adopts a revised grille with diagonal slats, smoked “Thor’s Hammer” headlights integrated with the grille, and larger vertical air intakes in the bumper. The rear gains T-shaped taillights with a simplified lighting signature and smoked housings.
Inside, the Scandinavian minimalism continues, now with an 11.2-inch floating touchscreen in portrait orientation, backed by physical shortcut buttons for ease of use. The steering wheel design has been slightly revised, while the center console retains its floating design with wireless charging and ample storage.
Powertrain
Mild hybrid: 2.0T + 48V, 184 kW, 8-speed automatic.
PHEV: 2.0T + electric motor, 228 kW engine output, 335 kW combined, 709 Nm torque, with ternary lithium battery pack.
Market and Background
The S90 traces its roots back to the Volvo 960, renamed in 1997, and reintroduced in 2016 as Volvo’s flagship sedan built on the SPA platform after Volvo was acquired by Geely. The Chinese-built long-wheelbase S90 has since become one of the most competitive mid-to-large luxury sedans in its class.
In early 2025, Volvo positioned the updated XC90 with aggressive price cuts, and now the S90 follows suit. With a new starting price around USD 42,000, the S90 undercuts many rivals such as the Cadillac CT6 and Jaguar XFL. Sales data show the S90 sold 6,019 units in the first four months of the year, far outperforming CT6’s 1,248 units.
While the changes in design are subtle, the dramatic price reduction is expected to be the S90’s biggest attraction in the fiercely competitive Chinese luxury sedan market.
