Volvo S90 Excellence revealed in China ~ station of gear

Top-of-the-line Volvo S90 Excellence could herald a new flagship trim for UK model range – but not yet

2016-11-02 02:00

The new Volvo S90 Excellence has been revealed in China, hinting at the prospect of a new top-level trim for UK buyers. Bosses haven’t commented on the feasibility of such models reaching Britain, but insist this car in particular offers an ‘immersive luxury feel’ for Volvo customers across the globe.

The flagship Excellence model is based on the long-wheelbase S90 L, which was also revealed in Shanghai today. Both cars are aimed specifically at the chauffeur market, with the S90 Excellence featuring a full panoramic roof, fold-out work tables and an adjustable footrest for rear seat passengers. The biggest change over the standard car, however, is the removal of the front passenger seat, which has been replaced by what Volvo calls its ‘Lounge Console’.

Image 4 of 13

Image 4 of 13

Both the S90 L and S90 Excellence will be built at the brand’s production facility in Daqing, China. Volvo has confirmed the cars will then be exported globally, suggesting such vehicles could find themselves on UK roads before too long.

• Best executive cars on sale right now

While it’s doubtful Volvo Cars UK will find a business case for the long wheelbase car, an Excellence version is more likely. Volvo already sells a high proportion of well-specced Inscription and R-Design models, so an additional rung on the ladder is a distinct possibility.

Volvo CEO Hakan Samuelsson said: “China will play an increasingly important part in our global manufacturing ambitions. Our factories here will deliver world-class products for export across the globe, contributing to our objective of building up to 800,000 cars a year by 2020.”

According to Thomas Ingenlath, senior vice president for design at Volvo Car Group, the S90 Excellence offers “high quality materials that combine to deliver a well-thought-through and immersive luxury feel.”

Also included is a set of heated and cooled cupholders, clever storage and a built-in entertainment system. There’s a rear-seat touchscreen control interface, as well as a fridge with handmade crystal glasses from Swedish glassmaker Orrefors.

Image 5 of 13

Image 5 of 13

Available in China with a range of T4 and T5 petrol engines, as well as the tried and tested T8 Twin Engine hybrid, the S90 Excellence sits at the top of the saloon car range. Prices haven’t been announced, but it’s safe to assume that despite being a rival for the Mercedes E-Class in standard trim, this particular model probably has more in common with the plusher Mercedes S-Class. As a result, a starting price of more than £60,000 (or equivalent Chinese Yuan) is highly likely. Production starts next year.

The new cars come with all the same safety kit as the standard S90, including Large Animal Detection, Pilot Assist and semi-autonomous driver assistance features that work at up to 80mph. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included.

Both the long wheelbase S90 L and S90 Excellence will make their public debut at the Guangzhou Motor Show later this month.

What do you think of the Volvo S90 L and S90 Excellence models? Let us know below...

Richard Ingram

Thank you for reading the article about Volvo S90 Excellence revealed in China in blog station of gear If this article was helpful please bookmark this page in your web browser by pressing Ctrl + D on your keyboard keys.