Volvo V90 - Am I mad? Talk me into it or out of it for 2022 (Second Hand)

I too think the V90 is a stunning car. I’m a sucker for big estates. The V90 is the kind of car you’d have to be sure you were getting the engine, spec and interior exactly how you wanted, but once you did, you’d be living the dream. For me, cream leather would be a non-negotiable requirement, and I wouldn’t skimp too much on engine or spec. I have a Skoda Superb Combi at the moment (different class, I know, but almost unbeatable in terms of space), and I think a V90 is one of the few cars I’d change to.

I wonder how you’d get on next year looking for an ‘18 with 26k, given how the prices are now? Might be tight.

The XC60 will always be more valuable as people cream over SUV's more than estates. I wouldnt say you'd be stuck as the V90 is a STUNNING car, i had planned on getting one but could never find one in the spec i wanted (D5, R-design in Blue) so i went for a 5 series. But every time i see one i get an awful pang.

I believe the XC60 and V90 share the same engine so servicing shouldnt be too different.

I think it's impossible to tell what the market will be like in 6-8 years. Did anyone last year predict that second hand cars would be appreciating this year? That 29K car you saw a few months ago could well be worth 31K now. The market (everywhere, not just Ireland) is nuts at the moment. It will crash back to earth at some stage, but it's not clear when - there's a lot of factors at play.

Plus the full impact of electric cars and possible deterrents to buying or using ICE over the next decade are just unknowable. There's a certain segment of the population that will always want or need large estates. But at the same time, a 10 year old car is a 10 year old car - whatever you get for it isn't going to make or break you. I wouldn't factor the possible resale value in 8 years time too much in deciding what to buy now. 2-4 years; yes sure. But the economic considerations change quite a bit when you're talking about keeping a car for longer.

I don't think the V90 will be more expensive to service and maintain than a V60. My previous car was a V50. If you're going to a Volvo main dealer, no matter what it's going to be expensive. But if you're going to your local mechanic and not necessarily using OEM parts, it'll be more reasonable. Personally, I think a V90 is a much nicer car in every way than a V60.

No idea about MPG, it's not something I tend to pay much attention to in cars. I drive them, and when they get low on fuel, I put more in.

I’d burn a lot of petrol

I'd like a Volvo S90 T8 from 2016-2018, nice looking cars and would suit by driving habits but they're non existent. The standard petrol of same vintage is nearly as rare and even the D3 and D4 diesels are scarce. V90 is a great looking wagon but again slim pickings so will be holding onto my aging Volvo another while yet.

Volvos were always been that bit more unique here and historically offered great value second hand given the spec in even the most basic of versions but the lack of availability in anything petrol or hybrid based is pretty frustrating.

Not doing enough mileage to justify one.

V90 D4 owner here - had it two years and v impressed, would recommend over the competition

Pro’s -

Cabin quality, ride, comfort and design. Note back of seat isn’t a hard plastic, it’s coated in a leathery finish

Propilot / ACC is simply brilliant and standard on all models - note it’s not standard on any A6/ E Class or 5 series

Digital instruments I find great

LED lights are standard and superb

Powerful and economical - I see 50mpg not 60mpg mind you

On Call - remote interface is v useful, eg remote start in winter or remote unlock

Cons -

Size - 5m long and feels it parking. If you are happy with the smaller V60 I’d get one of those- v similar car but just 90% the size and generally cheaper too

Price - going mad money and increasing/ VRT increases will add another 4%+ to new or import prices. Semi conductor issue means factory not accepting new orders

Boot - great shape but styling reduced the space expected

Handling - it’s not a 5 series or XF but it don’t lose grip either

Servicing - expensive. I would be looking to get a good mechanic who knows these cars to look after it long term

Hi,

V90 owner here as well. I would echo everything Casati says. Mine is a V90 momentum D4 2018 and have had it for a year.

A couple of things to note, Front parking sensors are not standard on the 2018 and earlier. Mine came with them but had been fitted as an extra. There is a long nose on them and I think it needs them.

If your going to tow look for one with the tow bar fitted. They are an expensive add on, around €1300 from Volvo (semi automatic electric).

Mine does not have android auto and its around €350 to get it retrofitted (which I will probably get done). Its standard on later models.

Mine does not have the on call app. Its standard on 2019 onwards (and some of the 18's)

As said by Casati the boot is large but the slope at the rear interferes with the size of item that can fit. I was trying to load a piece of furniture and could not get it in. It fitted in the BIL's E Class merc estate.

Mine has a spare wheel which was a major must have for me when changing the car. Some of them don't.

I get around 50mpg on long journeys. 43 to 47 on shorter ones.

I find the engine has plenty of power for me. Overtaking is easy in it. Some people swear by the polestar upgrade which boosts the power. I don't see myself getting it done.

The cream interior is nice. It brightens the interior considerable.