CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.7%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 170
Average Price: Around £21,000

Volvo V90 (2016-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Comfortable on long journeys	Not all that exciting to drive
Superb safety equipment	A Mercedes, BMW or Audi feels more premium
Practical boot space and cabin design	Diesels powerful but gruff-sounding

Quick Summary

The Volvo V90 (2016-present) is a premium estate car that prioritises comfort, practicality, and style. With 560 litres of boot space and a sloping rear windscreen design, it offers a modern, handsome aesthetic whilst maintaining excellent passenger space. The cabin features Volvo's signature clean and uncluttered design, with a comfortable driving position ideal for long journeys. Safety is paramount, with a five-star Euro NCAP rating and Volvo's City Safety autonomous emergency braking system fitted as standard across the range.

Engine options have evolved significantly since launch, with the initial choice of D4 and D5 diesel engines supplemented by petrol alternatives (T4, T5, T6) and, from 2020, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. The D4 diesel offers the best fuel economy at around 45mpg in real-world driving, whilst petrol engines are quieter but thirstier at approximately 30mpg. The V90 prioritises comfort over handling finesse, making it ideal for those who value relaxation and practicality over dynamic driving engagement. Plug-in hybrids deliver excellent performance and efficiency when regularly charged, though running costs vary significantly depending on usage patterns.

Best for: Families seeking a comfortable, practical premium estate car; those prioritising safety and long-distance comfort; buyers wanting a spacious alternative to SUVs with excellent build quality.

Not ideal for: Drivers seeking engaging handling dynamics; those wanting the most spacious boot in the segment; buyers prioritising the most premium feel compared to Mercedes or BMW rivals.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the V90 if: You're seeking a comfortable, practical premium estate car; prioritising safety and long-distance comfort; wanting a spacious alternative to SUVs with excellent build quality.

Consider alternatives if: You desire engaging handling dynamics, the most spacious boot in the segment, or the most premium feel compared to Mercedes or BMW rivals.

Competitive Position: The Volvo V90 is a strong contender in the premium estate car market, offering exceptional comfort and safety credentials. Whilst the BMW 5 Series Touring edges ahead with superior handling and the Mercedes E-Class Estate provides more boot space, the V90 delivers excellent value and practicality. Its five-star user rating reflects strong ownership satisfaction, and the range of efficient engine options—from economical diesels to plug-in hybrids—caters to diverse needs. For buyers prioritising comfort, safety, and Scandinavian design over outright sportiness, the V90 represents an excellent choice in a competitive segment.

Read our full Volvo V90 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from June 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.

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