Volvo S90
Drive-E combustion engine in the T8 plug-in hybrid configuration with twin-charging and rear axle electric motor. Combustion engine alone produces 235 kW; system output is 298–340 kW depending on model year. Eight-speed Geartronic automatic at the front, electric motor at the rear axle for all-wheel drive.
Plug-in fast saloon
T8 in the S90: electric silence meets turbo pressure. The quickest and most modern way to drive a Volvo.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The early ERAD rear axle electric motor (2016–2017, Siemens design) suffered clutch pack failure. Metal particles contaminated the differential oil, causing progressive bearing wear. Dealer repair costs exceeded 8,000 €.
Symptoms: Grinding or clicking from the rear axle, judder under acceleration, loss of electric rear-wheel drive
Volvo recalled approximately 73,000 PHEV vehicles (S60, V60, S90, V90, XC60, XC90) in 2021–2022 due to fire risk from defective LG battery cells. Affected owners were advised not to charge until inspection.
Some T8 PHEV owners report range losses of 20% or more in the first year. According to forum reports, Volvo accepted 25% range loss in the first year as 'within specification'. Improvements from 2022 models onward.
Symptoms: Noticeably reduced electric range after 1–2 years, combustion engine cutting in more frequently
The T8 shares its combustion engine with the T6, including the supercharger. At high total mileage (combined ICE and electric use), the same supercharger wear patterns apply as on the T6 Drive-E.
Symptoms: Power loss in combustion mode, check engine light, lean running condition (P0171)
Vehicle Weaknesses 10
A faulty weld between the rotor shaft and the hydraulic brake assembly was found on the V90 II and S90 II. If it fails, ABS, ESC and brake assist are disabled. Volvo issued a recall in 2021.
On XC60 II vehicles built between September 2018 and April 2019, nuts and bolts at the rear axle may be too loose. Handling can change abruptly; check recall status.
Plastic intake manifolds on diesel engines up to model year 2018 can overheat and pose a fire risk. Check for Volvo recall; affected models were fitted with metal manifolds.
Water gets into the windscreen wiper motor and causes it to fail. SPA platform models are affected; a 2020 recall addressed incorrectly tightened wiper arms. Visibility in rain significantly impaired.
The air suspension elements on the V90 Cross Country models show wear from as early as 70,000–100,000 km. A warning message and loss of ride comfort announce the failure; repair costs are substantial.
The Sensus infotainment system on the SPA platform (XC60 II, S90 II, V90 II, S60 III, V60 II) freezes or reboots while driving. Software updates improve stability. Steering wheel controls drop out sporadically.
The optional panoramic roof on the V90 II and S90 II shows malfunctions when opening/closing automatically. Faulty sensors or motor controllers can be expensive; water ingress possible if the seal is damaged.
The Sensus infotainment freezes or goes black and does not respond to touch. Smartphone connectivity problems are common; software updates usually help.
Bodywork issues are the most commonly reported weak point by S90 and V90 owners in reliability surveys (8.5%). These usually involve minor paint damage and localised rust spots.
Rear brake pads on the V90 II wear unevenly and generate heavy brake dust. The cause is the electric parking brake and automatic braking functions.