Volvo S60 vs S90: A Comprehensive Performance Review

When conducting a Volvo S60 vs S90 performance comparison, you’ll notice distinct differences that cater to varying driving preferences. The S60 offers a more agile and fuel-efficient ride, with its base engine delivering 260 horsepower and achieving up to 35 MPG on the highway. In contrast, the S90 emphasizes power and luxury, boasting 295 horsepower and a smoother, more stable driving experience. Whether you prioritize sporty handling or long-distance comfort, understanding these performance metrics in the Volvo S60 vs S90 performance comparison will help you decide which sedan aligns with your lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

• The Volvo S60 is quick and saves gas. It’s great for city driving and sharp turns.

• The Volvo S90 focuses on being fancy and comfy. It’s perfect for long trips with its big space and smooth ride.

• Both cars have hybrid versions, but the S60 uses less gas. It gets up to 69 MPGe, while the S90 gets 63 MPGe.

• Try driving both cars to see what they’re like. This helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.

• Think about how you drive: pick the S60 for sporty moves or the S90 for a smooth and cozy ride.

Volvo S60 vs S90 Performance Comparison: Engine and Powertrain

Engine Options

Turbocharged and hybrid options in the Volvo S60

The Volvo S60 offers a range of engine options tailored to different driving needs. Its base T5 engine features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, delivering 250 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. For enhanced performance, the T6 engine provides 316 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. If you prefer eco-friendly driving, the Recharge T8 plug-in hybrid combines a turbocharged engine with an electric motor, producing an impressive 400 horsepower and 472 lb.-ft. of torque. This hybrid option achieves up to 69 MPGe, making it ideal for fuel-conscious drivers.

Turbocharged and hybrid options in the Volvo S90

The Volvo S90 emphasizes luxury and power with its engine lineup. The B6 mild hybrid engine delivers 295 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque, offering smooth acceleration and refined performance. For those seeking hybrid capabilities, the T8 plug-in hybrid matches the S60’s output of 400 horsepower and 472 lb.-ft. of torque. However, the S90’s hybrid achieves a slightly lower combined MPGe of 63, reflecting its larger size and weight.

Horsepower and Torque

Power output of the Volvo S60

The Volvo S60 balances agility and power across its engine variants. The B5 mild hybrid generates 260 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, making it suitable for daily commuting. The T8 plug-in hybrid elevates the S60’s performance specs, delivering 405 horsepower and 472 lb.-ft. of torque for a thrilling driving experience.

Power output of the Volvo S90

The Volvo S90 prioritizes robust performance with its B6 mild hybrid engine, producing 295 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. This makes it well-suited for long-distance travel and highway cruising. The T8 plug-in hybrid matches the S60’s torque but slightly trails in horsepower at 400, reflecting its focus on comfort over sportiness.

Hybrid Capabilities

Plug-in hybrid features in the Volvo S60

The Volvo S60’s Recharge T8 plug-in hybrid stands out with its 69 MPGe rating, offering exceptional fuel efficiency for city and highway driving. Its electric motor complements the turbocharged engine, enabling seamless transitions between power sources.

Plug-in hybrid features in the Volvo S90

The Volvo S90’s T8 plug-in hybrid delivers similar performance specs but achieves a lower combined MPGe of 63 due to its larger size. Despite this, the S90 excels in providing a quiet and luxurious ride, making it a top choice for drivers prioritizing comfort.

Volvo S60 vs. Volvo S90: Driving Dynamics

Handling and Chassis

Agile handling of the Volvo S60

The Volvo S60 delivers a sportier driving character, thanks to its compact dimensions and lightweight design. Its chassis is engineered for dynamic handling, making it an excellent choice for navigating tight city streets or winding roads. You’ll appreciate the option of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), which enhances versatility in various driving conditions. The S60’s responsive steering and balanced suspension system ensure a confident and engaging driving experience.

Stable handling of the Volvo S90

The Volvo S90 prioritizes refined performance with a focus on stability and comfort. Its larger size and AWD-only configuration provide a planted feel on the road, especially during highway cruising. The S90’s chassis is tuned for smooth transitions and minimal body roll, making it ideal for long-distance travel. Advanced driver assistance systems further enhance its handling, ensuring safety and ease of control in diverse scenarios.

Ride Comfort

Suspension tuning in the Volvo S60

The S60’s suspension system strikes a balance between comfort and agility. It absorbs road imperfections effectively while maintaining a firm enough setup for spirited driving. This makes the S60 a versatile option for both daily commuting and weekend adventures.

Suspension tuning in the Volvo S90

The S90’s suspension is tuned for maximum comfort, offering a plush ride that minimizes vibrations and noise. Its larger wheelbase contributes to a smoother experience, especially on uneven surfaces. If you value a serene cabin environment during long drives, the S90 excels in delivering that luxury.

Weight and Size

Impact of the Volvo S60’s compact size

The S60’s smaller dimensions and lighter weight enhance its agility and fuel efficiency. Measuring 187.4 inches in length and weighing less than the S90, the S60 feels nimble and easy to maneuver. This makes it a practical choice for urban driving and parking in tight spaces. Despite its compact size, the S60 offers ample front legroom and headroom, ensuring comfort for the driver and passengers.

Impact of the Volvo S90’s larger size

The S90’s larger proportions, including a length of 200.4 inches, contribute to its spacious interior and superior ride quality. With more back legroom and trunk space than the S60, the S90 is better suited for families or those who frequently travel with passengers. Its size also enhances stability at higher speeds, making it a preferred option for highway driving.

Note: The S60’s compact size and higher MPGe rating make it more efficient for dynamic handling, while the S90’s larger size offers unmatched comfort and stability for long-distance journeys.

Fuel Efficiency in the Volvo S60 and S90

City and Highway MPG

Fuel economy of the Volvo S60

The Volvo S60 offers impressive fuel economy, making it a practical choice for both city and highway driving. The 2025 Volvo S60 B5 FWD achieves an estimated 27 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. Opting for the AWD version slightly reduces these figures to 25 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. These numbers highlight the S60’s efficiency, especially for urban commuters and those who frequently travel on highways.

For drivers considering the mild hybrid option, the S60 delivers a combined fuel efficiency of 30 MPG, with 26 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. This balance of performance and efficiency ensures that the S60 remains a top contender in its segment.

Fuel economy of the Volvo S90

The Volvo S90, designed with luxury and comfort in mind, offers slightly lower fuel economy due to its larger size and more powerful engine. The 2025 Volvo S90 B6 AWD achieves an estimated 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. While these figures are lower than the S60, they remain competitive for a sedan of its class.

The mild hybrid version of the S90 provides a combined fuel efficiency of 25 MPG, with 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. This makes the S90 an excellent choice for drivers prioritizing comfort and stability over maximum fuel efficiency.

Hybrid Range

Range of the Volvo S60 hybrid

The plug-in hybrid version of the Volvo S60, the T8 AWD, excels in fuel efficiency comparison with an EPA-estimated 74 MPGe. This model combines a turbocharged engine with an electric motor, offering a seamless blend of power and efficiency. The hybrid system provides an estimated electric-only range of 41 miles, making it ideal for short commutes or city driving.

Range of the Volvo S90 hybrid

The Volvo S90 T8 AWD plug-in hybrid delivers a slightly lower MPGe rating of 66. Despite this, it offers a similar electric-only range of 38 miles. This range, combined with the S90’s luxurious interior and smooth ride, makes it a strong contender for long-distance travelers who value comfort and eco-friendly driving.

Note: The S60’s higher fuel economy and MPGe rating make it a better choice for efficiency-focused drivers. However, the S90’s hybrid range and luxurious features cater to those seeking a premium driving experience.

Practical Performance: Volvo S60 vs S90

Acceleration and Braking

0-60 mph times for the Volvo S60

The 2021 Volvo S60 delivers impressive acceleration across its engine configurations. The base B5 engine achieves a 0-60 mph time of 6.4 seconds, while the B5 AWD variant slightly improves this to 6.2 seconds. For those seeking a more exhilarating experience, the T8 plug-in hybrid reaches 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. The Polestar Engineered T8 variant, with its 415 horsepower, further reduces this time to an astonishing 4.1 seconds. These figures highlight the new Volvo S60’s versatility, catering to both daily commuters and performance enthusiasts.

0-60 mph times for the Volvo S90

The 2021 Volvo S90 emphasizes smooth and powerful acceleration. Its base B6 engine achieves a 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.0 seconds, showcasing its capability as a luxury sedan. The T8 plug-in hybrid variant matches the S60’s 400 horsepower but focuses more on delivering a refined driving experience. While the S90 may not match the S60’s agility, it compensates with a composed and luxurious ride.

Driving Comfort

Cabin noise and comfort in the Volvo S60

The 2021 Volvo S60 offers a firm yet smooth ride, making it a standout in its class. Its cabin remains remarkably quiet, even at higher speeds, ensuring a serene driving experience. This quietness, combined with its advanced suspension system, makes the new Volvo S60 an excellent choice for drivers who value both performance and comfort.

Cabin noise and comfort in the Volvo S90

The 2021 Volvo S90 excels in delivering a plush and luxurious ride. Its larger wheelbase and advanced suspension tuning minimize vibrations and road noise, creating a tranquil cabin environment. This makes the new Volvo S90 ideal for long-distance travel, where comfort and quietness are paramount.

Urban vs. Highway Suitability

Volvo S60 for city driving

The compact dimensions and agile handling of the 2021 Volvo S60 make it perfect for urban environments. Its smaller size allows you to navigate tight streets and park with ease. Additionally, its fuel efficiency and responsive steering enhance its practicality for city dwellers.

Volvo S90 for highway driving

The 2021 Volvo S90 shines on highways, where its stability and comfort truly stand out. Its larger size and refined suspension ensure a smooth ride, even on uneven surfaces. The spacious interior and advanced safety features further enhance its appeal for long-distance travelers seeking a luxury sedan.

Tip: If you prioritize agility and city-friendly features, the new Volvo S60 is an excellent choice. However, for highway cruising and unmatched comfort, the new Volvo S90 is the better option.

When comparing the Volvo S60 and S90, the differences in performance and design become clear. The S60 excels in agility, fuel efficiency, and sporty handling, making it ideal for urban driving and those who enjoy a dynamic driving experience. In contrast, the S90 prioritizes luxury, comfort, and spaciousness, catering to drivers who value long-distance travel and a refined ride.

The S60’s compact size and higher quality ratings (8.6/10) make it a top choice for drivers seeking reliability and value. Meanwhile, the S90’s powerful engine and luxurious interior justify its higher price range of $58,294 to $71,035.

 Tip: Test-drive both models to experience their unique strengths firsthand. Whether you prefer the S60’s agility or the S90’s comfort, Volvo offers a sedan tailored to your lifestyle.