2026 Volvo ES90.
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I really wanted to like this new Volvo ES90 sedan. But I have to admit, I am quite disappointed. At least from these official photos that were released today.
We all knew the new ES90 was going to be related to the Volvo EX90 3-row EV SUV. However, the new ES90 ends up looking like a sedan version of the SUV. With a lot of Polestar 2 design cues. It basically looks a lot like a bigger Polestar 2. A car that came out in 2020, and was based on the Volvo Concept 40.2 from 2016. This is not a new look. The ES90 literally could have come out 4 or 5 years ago or more.
In my uninformed and non-professional opinion, it also doesn’t look as good as the Volvo S90. Another design that dates back to 2016.
The best part of being related to an SUV is the rear hatchback. However, unlike the great-looking Dodge Charger EV, which looks like a coupe, the ES90 is not doing a great job of looking like a sedan. The whole thing looks very tall and heavy. it reminds me of that 1st generation BMW 6 Series Gran Tourismo. Another car that looked quite lumpy and awkward.
I really think Volvo can do better than this. Much better. Even Volvo officially describes the new car as “The Volvo ES90 combines the refined elegance of a sedan”. Which is exactly the opposite of what it actually is…
Otherwise, the new sedan is probably a great car and a fantastic EV. Volvo is mentioning how technically advanced and safe the new car is. With a 340-mile range in the European test cycle. A single motor or dual motor with up to 670HP. (And why so much power???). The new ES90 is just about 3.5 inches shorter than the much better-looking S90 sedan. It is also 4 inches taller. Which explains that heavy lumpy look.
It is already available to order in Europe, with Volvo officially saying that “other markets will be added later”.
Apparently this could be added to the US lineup in 2026. Quite a gamble if you ask me. At least, the S90 is still around, and it will get a few new design revisions very soon as well.
Giant Polstar 2. I think it’s the only way it’ll sell.
There isn’t much surprise-and-delight going on here, sadly. I mean, it’s nice enough but unlike the S90 the design’s unlikely to age well.