The second-generation Volvo S90 and V90 represent the pinnacle of Swedish automotive engineering, combining elegant design, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled comfort. Introduced in 2016 as successors to the aging Volvo S80 and V70, these models underwent a facelift in 2020 that brought several key updates. Let’s explore what makes these cars special, their available body styles, and some interesting facts.

2020 Facelift: What’s New?

While no major structural changes were made, the updated S90 and V90 received several important refinements:

  • Exterior – slightly redesigned grille, new wheel designs, updated bumpers, and additional chrome accents.

  • LED Lighting – enhanced full-LED headlights with automatic high-beam functionality.

  • Interior – upgraded materials, a new multimedia system with a larger touchscreen (running Android Automotive OS), wireless charging, and extra USB-C ports.

  • Hybrid Models – expanded plug-in hybrid (Recharge) lineup with increased electric-only range.

Body Styles

The Volvo S90 and V90 share the same SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) platform but offer distinct body configurations:

  • S90 – a classic executive sedan with a long wheelbase, clean lines, and an elegant profile. A stretched S90L variant is also available in China.

  • V90 – a Scandinavian-style wagon: spacious, practical, and just as stylish as the sedan. Ideal for travel enthusiasts.

  • V90 Cross Country – a rugged, raised wagon with all-wheel drive, increased ground clearance, and body cladding. Perfect for rough roads and light off-roading.

Bumper Material (may vary): Polypropylene + ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer with 20% mineral filler. Marked as >PP/EPDM+TD20<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

 

  1. Open the hood.

  2. Remove the push-pins and detach the three plastic covers (start with the covers above the headlights).

  3. Under the center cover, unscrew eight bolts (TORX 25, installed top-to-bottom) securing the upper part of the bumper.

  4. From underneath, unscrew eight bolts (TORX 25, installed bottom-to-top) securing the lower section (if removing the radiator covers, unscrew the inner bolts as well).

  5. Turn the wheels alternately inward for access.

  6. In the wheel arches, unscrew five bolts per side (TORX 25) holding the front fender liners.

  7. (Each side) Pull back the fender liner and unscrew two bolts (8 mm, installed bottom-to-top) securing the bumper to the fender bracket.

  8. Release the sides from the fender clips (pull downward first, then outward).

  9. With an assistant, slide the bumper forward (mind the wiring).

  10. Disconnect the electronic component connectors.

front bumper mounting locations Volvo S90 II / V90 II (2016–2025)

Volvo S90 II / V90 II (2016–2025) Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

  1. Open the tailgate.

  2. (V90 only) Unscrew and remove the two support struts inside the trunk (remove the inner screw first).

  3. From underneath, unscrew four bolts securing the lower bumper section.

  4. In the wheel arches, unscrew five bolts per side holding the rear fender liners.

  5. Pull back the liners and unscrew one bolt per side securing the bumper corners, then remove the plastic clips.

  6. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corner downward and outward).

  7. Detach the clips under the taillights and near the tailgate opening.

  8. With an assistant, pull the bumper rearward (check for wiring).

  9. Disconnect all electrical connectors.

mounting locations of the rear bumper Volvo S90 II (2016–2025)

mounting locations of the rear bumper Volvo V90 II (2016–2025)

Volvo V90 II Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram (2016–2025)

Model Overview: Technology & Comfort

Both models excel in premium features and Scandinavian interior design.

  • Design – minimalist aesthetics with natural materials (wood, leather, metal), a clean dashboard, and a portrait-style touchscreen.

  • Safety – Volvo’s renowned systems include adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist, automatic braking, and even large animal detection.

  • Engines – turbocharged gasoline/diesel options (2.0L–2.4L), plus T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrids (~400 HP, up to 31 miles electric range).

  • Suspension – comfort-tuned, with optional air suspension on hybrids for smoother rides.

Fun Facts

  • Legacy Name – The S90 revives the iconic Volvo 900 Series nameplate from the 1990s, famed for its safety.

  • Bowers & Wilkins Audio – The premium sound system includes a "Concert Hall" mode mimicking Gothenburg’s acoustics.

  • Electric Future – Post-2024, S90/V90 will transition to a fully electric platform.

  • Swedish Minimalism – Nearly all controls are handled via touchscreen or voice commands, eliminating clutter.