The Volvo ES90 is an all-electric luxury fastback with a hatchback-style boot, taking on rivals like the BMW i5 and Mercedes EQE. With up to 435 miles of range and a minimalist, tech-heavy interior, is it the perfect long-range EV, or does it try to do too much? Let’s find out.
Overview: What Is the Volvo ES90?
The Volvo ES90 is a large electric fastback set to arrive in early 2026, sitting somewhere between a saloon, hatchback, and SUV in terms of design. Unlike Volvo’s SUVs, the ES90 is lower and sleeker, but it’s not quite a traditional saloon either. It aims to combine long-distance comfort, cutting-edge tech, and Volvo’s legendary safety features into a single package.
Key Specs (At a Glance)
- Price (Expected): From £69,950 (Plus trim) to £88,000 (Ultra trim)
- Range: Up to 435 miles (WLTP)
- Charging: 186 miles in 10 minutes, 10-80% in 20 minutes (350kW charger)
- Power Options:
- Single Motor (RWD, 333bhp, 404 miles range)
- Twin Motor AWD (Standard, 435 miles range)
- Twin Motor Performance (680bhp, 435 miles range, 0-60mph in 4.0s)
- Boot Space: Yet to be confirmed, but expect a large hatchback-style opening
- Interior Tech: 14.5-inch touchscreen, Google built-in, premium audio
What’s Good?
✅ Class-Leading Range: With up to 435 miles per charge, the ES90 beats the BMW i5 (375 miles) and the Mercedes EQE (431 miles). Even the Single Motor version manages 404 miles, making it one of the best long-range EVs on the market.
✅ Fast Charging: With 800V charging tech, the ES90 can add 186 miles in just 10 minutes or charge from 10-80% in 20 minutes if you find a powerful 350kW charger. That’s quicker than most rivals.
✅ Comfortable, Minimalist Interior: Volvo’s Scandinavian design makes the cabin clean, uncluttered, and relaxing. The 14.5-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, and sustainable materials give a premium but eco-friendly feel. The quiet, insulated cabin should make for a stress-free long-distance cruiser.
✅ Advanced Safety and Tech: Volvo claims the ES90 has its most advanced safety system yet, with LiDAR sensors for assisted driving and over-the-air updates to improve features over time. The dual-chamber air suspension should make the ride smooth and refined.
✅ Hatchback-Style Practicality: Unlike a traditional saloon, the ES90 has a hatchback boot, which should offer easier access and more space for luggage—perfect for long trips.
What’s Not So Good?
❌ Not Cheap: Starting at £69,950, the ES90 undercuts the BMW i5 (£74,105) and the Mercedes EQE (£74,345). However, if you want all-wheel drive or the fastest version, you’ll need to spend closer to £88,000.
❌ Minimal Physical Buttons: The ES90 relies heavily on the 14.5-inch touchscreen, meaning climate controls and other key functions are digital-only. This might not be ideal for drivers who prefer physical dials and switches.
❌ Sits in a Design Grey Area: It’s not quite a saloon, not quite an SUV, and not quite a hatchback, which could confuse buyers looking for a clear alternative to the BMW i5 or Mercedes EQE.
❌ Performance Model Still Not a Sports Car: Even with 680bhp, the ES90 isn’t designed for driving excitement. The Twin Motor Performance version does 0-60mph in 4.0 seconds, which is quick, but it won’t match the sharper handling of a BMW i5 M60.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Volvo ES90?
Buy This If:
✔ You want an EV with one of the longest ranges on the market.
✔ You prioritise comfort, safety, and tech over sporty handling.
✔ You like Volvo’s minimalist interior and sustainable materials.
✔ You want hatchback practicality in a premium EV.
Look Elsewhere If:
❌ You prefer a sporty drive—a BMW i5 M60 or Porsche Taycan will be more engaging.
❌ You want traditional physical controls instead of a touchscreen-dominated interior.
❌ You need a car sooner—first deliveries aren’t until 2026.
Should You Wait for the Volvo ES90?
If you’re looking for a premium long-range electric car, the ES90 is worth waiting for. It beats the BMW i5 and Mercedes EQE on range, offers cutting-edge safety tech, and has practical hatchback access.
However, if you need a car sooner or prefer a more traditional saloon design, rivals like the BMW i5, Mercedes EQE, or even a Tesla Model S might be better suited.
Would you choose the Volvo ES90 over its German rivals?
