Volvo ES90 Electric Saloon Triumphs in 2026 Awards but Reveals Minor Drawbacks
In the evolving landscape of electric vehicles, the Volvo ES90 has emerged as a notable contender, clinching the Gentleman's Journal Car Awards 2026. This luxury saloon, with a price tag of £78,105, aims to compete with established rivals like BMW, Audi, and Porsche. However, a recent test drive in the Cotswolds uncovered some small issues within its otherwise impressive package.
Specifications and Design
At a launch event near Moreton-in-Marsh, Volvo highlighted the ES90's connection to its heritage, showcasing a classic 1990s S90 saloon. The test model featured a single motor rear-wheel drive variant, delivering 333hp and 480Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 62mph in 6.6 seconds and charges from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 22 minutes using a 310kW rapid charger. With a boot capacity of 424 litres (extending to 733 litres with rear seats folded), the car is finished in a cream shade called Sand Dune.
Interior Challenges
Upon entering the ES90, the most striking feature is the near-total absence of physical buttons, aside from a few on the steering wheel. Volvo has opted for a portrait-oriented touchscreen to control nearly all functions. While not the slowest system, it lacks user-friendliness, requiring navigation through submenus for basic tasks like accessing the glovebox. The absence of button-based shortcuts for switching between CarPlay and radio or manual climate controls is a notable drawback. Despite this, the cabin exudes luxury, with supportive seats, a slender steering wheel, wireless charging pads, USB-C ports, and high-quality materials that justify the premium price.
Rear Accommodation and Driving Experience
In the rear, space is adequate for passengers over six feet tall, though legroom can be limited if the front seat occupant is similarly sized. A central cupholder array folds down between seats, but when stowed, it obstructs rearward vision due to the middle seat headrest. On the road, the ES90 offers a smooth, gliding drive with subtle inputs, avoiding excessive firmness even in sport modes. However, its weight of over two tonnes is noticeable over bumps and in corners, reminiscent of the BMW i4 and iX3. The ride quality handles Britain's rough roads well, akin to a Rolls-Royce, but limited rear visibility and brakes that lack initial bite are minor frustrations.
Market Context and Verdict
The ES90 enters a challenging market where consumer interest in electric vehicles is rising, yet cost-of-living pressures from the Iran conflict hinder affordability. This timing adds intrigue to its launch. Overall, the Volvo ES90 is an excellent car to drive, with only a few small niggles preventing top marks. Christopher Sharp's verdict awards it an 8/10, praising its performance while acknowledging areas for improvement in future updates.
