Volvo V90 II (P) (2016 – 2025)

Reliability score : 7.6/10

The Volvo V90 Generation II (P), built on Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), represents the pinnacle of the Swedish brand's estate car lineage. Replacing the V70, it shifted the focus slightly from ultimate boxy utility to striking Scandinavian design, premium interior quality, and advanced safety tech (Pilot Assist). A mid-cycle facelift in 2020 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains (B-series) and an Android Automotive infotainment system on later models. Focus on Diesel: The V90 relies exclusively on the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder VEA (Volvo Engine Architecture) family. The diesel variants (D3, D4, D5, and later B4/B5 mild-hybrids) were the top sellers in Europe, praised for their torque and highway efficiency. However, they are complex engines that require specific driving profiles (lo

✅ Strengths

Class-leading interior design and material quality.
Exceptional seat comfort (especially Inscription/Ultimate trims with massage).
Top-tier safety features and robust Pilot Assist system.
Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system is arguably the best in the industry.
Excellent highway stability and refinement.

⚠️ Weaknesses

Diesel engines suffer from severe EGR and intake soot build-up.
No 6-cylinder option; the 4-cylinder engines lack the acoustic refinement of German rivals.
Sensus infotainment system can be slow to boot up on pre-2018 models.
Firm ride quality on 20-inch or 21-inch wheels unless equipped with rear air suspension.
High depreciation and expensive OEM replacement parts.

🎯 Verdict

The Volvo V90 is a stunning, ultra-comfortable estate car that excels at long-distance cruising. However, if you are targeting a diesel model (D3, D4, D5), extreme caution is advised regarding its maintenance history. The VEA diesel engines are highly susceptible to EGR clogging and intake manifold issues if used for short trips or city driving. Buying Advice: If you must buy a diesel, look for a post-2019 model (or a B4/B5 mild-hybrid) where the EGR system was revised, and ensure the car has a history of highway driving. Verify that the intake manifold recall was completed. For mixed or urban driving, the petrol (T4/T5/B4) or later PHEV models (post-2022) are significantly more reliable choices.