Volvo has sold roughly 2.2 million cars worldwide across the last three years. The figures break down to 708 716 units in 2023 (a solid performance), a record 763 389 in 2024, and 710 042 in 2025. With the brand leaning heavily into hybrids and full EVs, the EV market slowdown in 2024 hit them hard – along with other factors – but Volvo isn’t backing off its electrification push. That’s why the new ES90 has now arrived in Mzansi, hot on the heels of its global debut. I had the chance to sample it on a scenic drive through KwaZulu-Natal.
In an era where buyers overwhelmingly favour SUVs, launching the ES90 feels like quite the bold move from Volvo. But I reckon it’s a calculated risk worth taking – plenty of folks are still hunting for proper sedans as a refreshing break from the crossover overload. Volvo officially calls it a sedan, though if we’re being precise, it’s more of a sleek fastback. It’s a stunner from most angles, particularly the front three-quarter and side views. The rear is elegant enough, but I can’t help thinking a subtle integrated spoiler would add a touch more personality and edge.
The ES90 is a proper big car: stretching to about 5 metres long, 1.55 metres tall, and 2.1 metres wide (with mirrors), while offering 446 litres of boot space that swells to 1 427 litres with the rear seats folded flat. Size-wise it’s competitive, yet SUVs in this premium space still rule the roost, so the ES90 has its work cut out.
Those signature Thor’s hammer headlights carry over (with HD matrix tech on higher trims), flanked by distinctive drop-down daytime running lights around the lower air intake and the familiar closed grille we’ve seen on the EX30 and EX90. The side profile flows gracefully into that coupe-esque sloping roofline—reinforcing the fastback vibe—while the rear gets sharp LED C-shaped taillights plus vertical brake lights at the edges of the window. Buyers can pick from seven exterior colours, with two to four interior themes depending on trim.
Behind the wheel from Ballito up through the Midlands beyond Pietermaritzburg, the ES90 delivered classic Volvo traits: a supple, compliant ride that soaks up bumpy roads and imperfections with ease. The adjustable air suspension plays a big role here, allowing height changes of roughly 18 mm to 30 mm – perhaps a nod to buyers wanting a bit of that SUV-like clearance without ditching the low-slung sedan stance.
It’s pure electric, no combustion engine in sight. Built on Volvo’s new SPA2 architecture with an 800V system for quicker charging, the 92kWh battery delivers a claimed range of up to 755km. For now, Mzansi gets only the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) versions.
The cabin feels genuinely premium, with high-quality materials, excellent build, and generous space all round—rear passengers especially benefit from adjustable seating. The star of the show on the top spec is the Bowers & Wilkins setup pumping 1 610 Watts through 25 speakers, delivering rich, immersive sound. Volvo South Africa offers three trims – Core, Plus, and Ultra – with escalating kit. The flagship Ultra includes that B&W audio, an electrochromic panoramic roof (dim at the touch of a button), laminated glass, and power soft-close doors. A more conventional sliding canvas sunroof is available if preferred.
Performance-wise, expect 0–100km/h in 6.6 seconds thanks to 245kW and 480Nm from the single motor. Top speed is capped at 180km/h, in line with Volvo’s current range-wide policy.
Safety remains a Volvo hallmark—from inventing the three-point seatbelt to today’s arsenal: Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Info with Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping Aid, Collision Avoidance/Mitigation, Rear Camera, Head-Up Display, Rain Sensing Wipers, Road Sign Info, connected safety tech, OTA updates, and a 360-degree camera (availability varies by trim).
With new sedans becoming rare in Mzansi, SUVs dominating, premium sales softening, and EVs still facing slow uptake, the ES90 is up against steep odds. But if buyers shopping executive electric options like the BMW i5 or Mercedes EQE want something different, this Scandinavian contender makes a compelling case.
Volvo ES90 Prices
Core – R1 590 000
Plus – R1 655 000
Ultra – R1 795 000
