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:
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Exterior – slightly redesigned grille, new wheel designs, updated bumpers, and additional chrome accents.
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LED Lighting – enhanced full-LED headlights with automatic high-beam functionality.
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Interior – upgraded materials, a new multimedia system with a larger touchscreen (running Android Automotive OS), wireless charging, and extra USB-C ports.
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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:
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S90 – a classic executive sedan with a long wheelbase, clean lines, and an elegant profile. A stretched S90L variant is also available in China.
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V90 – a Scandinavian-style wagon: spacious, practical, and just as stylish as the sedan. Ideal for travel enthusiasts.
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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
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Open the hood.
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Remove the push-pins and detach the three plastic covers (start with the covers above the headlights).
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Under the center cover, unscrew eight bolts (TORX 25, installed top-to-bottom) securing the upper part of the bumper.
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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).
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Turn the wheels alternately inward for access.
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In the wheel arches, unscrew five bolts per side (TORX 25) holding the front fender liners.
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(Each side) Pull back the fender liner and unscrew two bolts (8 mm, installed bottom-to-top) securing the bumper to the fender bracket.
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Release the sides from the fender clips (pull downward first, then outward).
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With an assistant, slide the bumper forward (mind the wiring).
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Disconnect the electronic component connectors.
How to Remove the Rear Bumper
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Open the tailgate.
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(V90 only) Unscrew and remove the two support struts inside the trunk (remove the inner screw first).
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From underneath, unscrew four bolts securing the lower bumper section.
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In the wheel arches, unscrew five bolts per side holding the rear fender liners.
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Pull back the liners and unscrew one bolt per side securing the bumper corners, then remove the plastic clips.
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Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corner downward and outward).
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Detach the clips under the taillights and near the tailgate opening.
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With an assistant, pull the bumper rearward (check for wiring).
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Disconnect all electrical connectors.
Model Overview: Technology & Comfort
Both models excel in premium features and Scandinavian interior design.
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Design – minimalist aesthetics with natural materials (wood, leather, metal), a clean dashboard, and a portrait-style touchscreen.
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Safety – Volvo’s renowned systems include adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist, automatic braking, and even large animal detection.
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Engines – turbocharged gasoline/diesel options (2.0L–2.4L), plus T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrids (~400 HP, up to 31 miles electric range).
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Suspension – comfort-tuned, with optional air suspension on hybrids for smoother rides.
Fun Facts
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Legacy Name – The S90 revives the iconic Volvo 900 Series nameplate from the 1990s, famed for its safety.
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Bowers & Wilkins Audio – The premium sound system includes a "Concert Hall" mode mimicking Gothenburg’s acoustics.
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Electric Future – Post-2024, S90/V90 will transition to a fully electric platform.
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Swedish Minimalism – Nearly all controls are handled via touchscreen or voice commands, eliminating clutter.