The new Volvo ES90 is barely a sedan

Mar 5

Volvo has recently unveiled its latest electric vehicle, the 2026 Volvo ES90. While technically a hatchback, the ES90 maintains the classic sedan silhouette, providing a fresh take on a traditional category while embracing cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. With power outputs reaching up to 671 horsepower, rapid charging capabilities, and a sophisticated Scandinavian interior, the ES90 is another byproduct of Volvo’s commitment to electrification.

Despite being labeled as a sedan, the ES90 features a rear hatch that adds practicality without sacrificing the sleek aesthetics. The vehicle maintains Volvo’s signature design elements, including the iconic "Thor’s Hammer" LED headlights and sleek, C-shaped taillights. The aerodynamic shape and a low drag coefficient of 0.23—the best in Volvo’s history—contribute to efficiency and performance. While the lidar sensor atop the vehicle might be slightly intrusive, its integration into the overall design ensures that Volvo’s advanced driver-assistance technology remains at the forefront.

In terms of dimensions, the ES90 has a wheelbase of 122.1 inches, slightly longer than the gasoline-powered S90. However, at 197.0 inches in length, the ES90 is shorter than its predecessor. Additionally, the EV stands taller at 61.0 inches, enhancing passenger space and comfort while still maintaining an elegant stance. With a curb weight reaching up to 5787 pounds, the 90, rather predictably, put on a bit of weight in the electrification process.

The ES90’s interior reflects Volvo’s dedication to minimalist luxury, sustainable materials, and cutting-edge technology. The standout feature is a vertically oriented 14.5-inch center touchscreen, running Google’s built-in software to manage infotainment, climate control, and other vehicle functions. A smaller 9.0-inch digital display sits behind the steering wheel, complemented by a head-up display for essential driving information.

Customization options abound with various upholstery materials and interior lighting choices. Volvo has also incorporated a panoramic roof with 99.9% UV protection as standard, while an optional electrochromic glass roof allows drivers to adjust transparency, enhancing comfort and ambiance. The quietest cabin in Volvo’s history ensures a serene driving experience, further enhanced by dual-chamber air suspension and an active chassis designed for supreme ride comfort.

The ES90 offers three powertrain options, a single-motor Rear-Wheel Drive option with 335 horsepower, a Twin Motor (All-Wheel Drive one with 442 and a performance trim with a whopping 671 horsepower. With an industry-leading 800-volt charging architecture, the ES90 also delivers rapid charging capabilities. The larger 102.0-kWh battery variant can achieve an estimated range of up to 372 miles on a full charge, while the smaller 88.0-kWh pack offers approximately 345 miles. When connected to a 350-kW fast charger, the ES90 can charge from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes, or add an impressive 190 miles of range in 10 minutes.

Volvo has integrated its most advanced technology suite in the ES90, making it a “software-designed car” with continuous over-the-air updates. Powered by NVIDIA’s advanced computing platform, the vehicle can process over 500 trillion operations per second, ensuring an evolving and improving driving experience over time.

Safety remains a cornerstone of Volvo’s philosophy as always. The ES90 comes equipped with the company’s most advanced sensor set, offering industry-leading driver assistance and collision avoidance systems. Standard features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, and a surround-view camera system for enhanced situational awareness.

Volvo plans to launch the ES90 in Europe first, with the U.S. market following in late 2025 or early 2026. Customers will have the choice of Plus and Ultra trims, allowing for various levels of luxury and performance enhancements. With the unveiling of the 2026 Volvo ES90, the Swedish automaker reaffirms its position as a leader in the electric vehicle revolution. By blending luxury, performance, cutting-edge technology, and practicality, Volvo has created a compelling alternative to established competitors like the BMW i5 and Mercedes EQE. Whether you consider it a sedan, a fastback, or a hatchback, one thing stands certain—the ES90 is a positive step toward Volvo’s electric future.

Yash Stalin

Yashwanth (Yash) Stalin has been sincerely passionate about cars for as long as he can remember. What began as a childhood hobby of simply naming cars on the road has grown into a career-defining passion. Inspired by years of consuming countless articles and videos, his love for cars evolved into a desire to write his own material and help others in the way those articles helped him. This ambition led to the creation of HEEL & TOE, through which he channels his enthusiasm and knowledge, providing readers with informative content about the automotive industry.

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