Volvo Car Malaysia is following-up the success of its XC90 T8 Twin Engine with the launch of two new models, the new Volvo S90 and V90. Built on the new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), both models represent the second phase of Volvo’s transformation.
The Volvo S90 and V90 will present a strong challenge to the traditional premium DE segment with its distinctly Scandinavian idea of luxury – a proposition that is achieved through the use of natural materials, ergonomic and purposeful design, and driven by cutting-edge technological innovations.
“Volvo’s idea was to offer something entirely different to this rather conservative segment and deliver a visual expression that exudes confidence on the exterior while delivering a high-end luxury experience in the interior,” said Lennart Stegland, the Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia.
Overall, both the S90 and V90 has taken big strides in terms of driving dynamics, performance and ride. Volvo has completely redesigned the driving experience from the ground up to offer customers a greater sense of precision, engaging control and comfort. From the outset, both models convey gorgeous proportions, sitting lower, longer and wider than its segment competitors.
The S90 and V90 will be offered in two variants: T5 and T6 R-Design, a turbocharged engine producing 254 hp (187 kW) at 5,500 rpm, and a turbocharged and supercharged engine producing 320 hp (235 kW) at 5,700 rpm respectively. The T5 will deliver a maximum torque of 350 Nm from 1,500 – 4,800 rpm to the front wheels while the T6 R-Design will intelligently translate a maximum torque of 400 Nm from 2,200 – 5,5400 rpm to all four wheels.
The aggressive stance of the car is very pronounced in the T6 R-Design thanks to its wider tyres, Sport Chassis tuning, and a more dynamic expression on the exterior. The T6 R-Design variant will also receive Sport options such as a combination Nubuck and Perforated Nappa Leather Contour Seats with Side Support and Cushion Extensions, and R-Design Steering and Gear Lever among other things.
The V90 will benefit from both variants but adds the versatility of a modern estate. The V90 sees the return of big estates for Volvo Car Malaysia and with this launch, becomes the sole offer in the local premium DE segment estate.
“The V90 gives homage to our strong heritage and history in the premium estate segment. We are aware that the estate segment is a very niche in Malaysia but if we look at the increasingly dynamic lifestyle of Malaysians, we are certain that more and more people will re-discover the appeal of a premium estate,” adds Stegland.
Both cars will be equipped with a host of driver assist technologies as standard. Included in this Intellisafe package is Volvo’s City Safety, an advanced Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system that could detect and mitigate collisions with pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals. Another feature that is included as standard is the advanced semi-autonomous drive feature, Pilot Assist. This system gives gentle steering inputs to keep the car properly aligned within lane markings and functions up to highway speeds of around 130 km/h while automatically maintaining the set distance and speed determined by the user.
The S90 T5 and T6 R-Design will be priced at RM388,888 and RM453,888 (both on-the-road without insurance, inclusive of six per cent GST) while the V90 T5 and T6 R-Design will be priced at RM393,888 and RM458,888 (both on-the-road without insurance, inclusive of 6% GST).
Customers can choose between Onyx Black, Ice White, Osmium Grey and Bright Silver for all variants. Customers can also opt for Mussel Blue which is exclusive for both T5 variants. Meanwhile, T6 R-Design customers can also select the signature Bursting Blue colour for either their S90 or V90.
When it comes to interior selection, T5 customers can choose between three interior upholstery colours which includes Charcoal, Amber, and Blond in combination with two inlay options: Iron Ore or Dark Flame Birch. T6 R-Design customers will receive the Nubuck and Perforated Nappa Leather Contour Seats in Charcoal as standard with a selection of either Metal Mesh or Carbon Fibre deco inlay.
Volvo’s new face
Like the XC90, the S90 and V90 will carry the proud and confident face of Volvo’s new design language, along with classic Volvo styling cues. Key features include the iconic “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlight design, the new grille and Volvo Iron Mark, and the expressive use of the Volvo word mark on the rear.
R-Design
R-Design delivers an edge to the elegance of the S90 sedan and estate with a winning combination of a sportier, more responsive drive with clearly visible performance styling. Central to the S90 and V90 R-Design is an advanced sport chassis that delivers an energetic, road-hugging drive.
Sporting a new front-end design with spoiler-integrated fog lights, the R-Design models come with a unique grille and piano black trim on both front and rear. The 5-spoke R-Design wheels add to the performance feel.
A wide range of styling cues are included on the inside – from unique deco trim, pedals and mats, to the sporty contour seats and special steering wheel, including a high level interior illumination package that radiates attention to detail.
Semi-autonomous drive
The S90 launches with IntelliSafe Assist as standard. This includes Adaptive Cruise Control and Distance Alert and the advanced semi-autonomous drive feature, Pilot Assist.
The Pilot Assist functionality gives gentle steering input to keep the car properly aligned within lane markings up to motorway speeds of around 130 km/h and no longer needs to follow another car. Pilot Assist is another step towards full autonomous drive – a key innovation area for Volvo, and one which is highlighted at the show with the Concept 26 display, which envisions how a car interior could look and feel in a fully autonomous Volvo.
