2016 Volvo S90 Will Fight With 5 Series, E-Class With Its Own Unique Talents

Volvo is obviously far from resting on its laurels after introducing the second-generation XC90 SUV. One of the Swedish company's coming models is reportedly going to be the 2016 Volvo S90 that will take over from the current and aging S80.

When the new Volvo sedan comes into the mid-sized premium saloon market, it will face stern competition from household names such as the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6. Add in the all-new Jaguar XF, and the new Volvo S90 will have its work cut out for it.

Starting with its underpinnings, the company’s Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) will serve as the platform for the S90 with powertrain options likely adopted from the all-new XC90 and its T8 ‘Twin Engine’ plug-in hybrid along with other smaller turbocharged four-cylinder petrol and diesel mills from its new Drive-E range. It's also expected that an estate bodystyle of the S90, likely to be known as the V90, to be introduced following the sedan version's debut.

As for the styling, the S90 could draw inspiration from some of Volvo’s more recent concepts that include both the Volvo Concept Estate and Coupé you see here.

However, before you look to compare the upcoming Volvo S90 against its hot rivals, Volvo UK managing director Nick Connor spoke to Autocar saying that, "Volvo now has the self-confidence to go its own way - we have no interest in copying the German brands," he said. "There is no point in trying to outhandle the 3 Series or whatever, we have our own values around exterior and interior design, safety, comfort and powertrain advancements that stand out for their own qualities."

Which is not to say the S90 would be inferior, but expecting it to handle like a BMW 5 Series or be more powerful than a full-bored AMG E-Class isn’t on Volvo’s priority list. Instead, expect a saloon that exudes comfort, luxury and the brand’s unique design to draw in the crowd. Add those qualities to the company’s explicit focus on safety systems and you’ve got quite the package.