Value for money

The refreshed volvo s90 was recently unveiled in the Hong Kong market. Customers looking for a large executive sedan characterized by excellent value for money can choose between the entry-level B4 Momentum and the more feature-packed B5 Inscription.

Being value for money, however, does not guarantee sales success.

Although the S90 shares a significant percentage of its mechanical and luxury elements with the XC90, the sedan's sales are only a fraction of those for its SUV sibling.

In the United States, for example, Volvo delivered more XC90s to customers in a good month than it did S90s in a year.

A similar pattern emerges in other markets, including Hong Kong.

Chances are local road users will see many more XC90s before catching a glimpse of the S90.

And the fact that the Volvo S90 operates in this particular niche, vying with top German brands for the same, perhaps relatively conservative and brand conscious, customers, will always means an uphill battle for what is now a Chinese-owned Swedish automotive brand.

Arguably, what Volvo lacks in brand appeal, the S90 makes up for in interior space.

It is a large car with bigger dimensions compared to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5-Series and Audi A6. Clever packaging, such as the use of a small four-cylinder engine, also results in a spacious cabin.

Numerous overseas car reviewers have even compared the S90's rear seat legroom to that of the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

This S90 shares much of its outer appearance and interior layout with the outgoing model that's been around for four or five years.

However, it boasts an updated mild hybrid Drive-E power system. The system employs the widely-used two-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as its pumping heart. Volvo makes use of an electric motor, a 48V lithium battery and a 12V/48V converter in the mild hybrid system.

The additional pulling power of 14PS and 40Nm of torque is not for explosive acceleration.

According to Volvo, the electric motor acts as a starter to rev up the engine smoothly.

It also works as a generator, collecting energy regenerated by braking, which is stored in the 48 volt battery. The engine also features a cylinder deactivation design to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

There are two engine specifications for the S90.

The B4 Momentum (HK$499,800 new arrival offer) has a power output of 197PS and torque of 300Nm, while the more powerful B5 Inscription (HK$569,800 new arrival offer) is rated at 250PS and 350Nm respectively.

Both S90 versions are generously equipped, and there are just a handful of cost options to consider.

In addition to a set of bigger 19-inch wheels, exclusive Inscription chrome trims and LED headlights, the B5 Inscription comes standard with nappa factory-fitted upholstery, a crystal gear level knob, heated and ventilated front seats, as well as a rear side window sunblind and rear window curtain for added privacy.

The premium Bowers and Wilkins audio system is about the only cost option a future Inscription owner has to consider.

It is said that the latest Hong Kong-bound S90s are assembled in manufacturing facilities in northern mainland China.

As the country is fast becoming a car manufacturing powerhouse itself, it is safe to predict more and more vehicles that are going to be sold in Hong Kong will be produced in the mainland.

staff.reporter@singtaonewscorp.com

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