Volvo S90 vs Mercedes E-Class: The Ultimate Battle of Safety and Luxury in 2025
In the premium sedan segment, the Volvo S90 and Mercedes E-Class represent two different philosophies: Volvo’s unwavering focus on safety versus Mercedes’ blend of luxury and technology. Let’s explore how these approaches compare in 2025.
Safety Features and Technology
Volvo S90 Safety Systems:
- Collision Avoidance:
- City Safety with Cross Traffic
- Run-off Road Protection
- Large Animal Detection
- 360° Camera System
- Driver Assistance:
- Pilot Assist with Enhanced Navigation
- Blind Spot Information System
- Adaptive Cruise Control 2.0
- Emergency Stop Assist
- Passive Safety:
- Reinforced passenger compartment
- Energy-absorbing interior
- Whiplash protection system
- Multiple airbag system
Mercedes E-Class Safety Systems:
- Active Safety:
- Pre-Safe with Sound Technology
- Active Brake Assist
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Active Lane Keeping
- Driver Assistance:
- Drive Pilot Level 3
- Active Distance Assist
- Traffic Sign Assist
- Car-to-X Communication
- Passive Safety:
- PRE-SAFE Impulse Side
- Advanced restraint systems
- Ultra-high-strength steel cage
- Intelligent airbag deployment
Comfort and Luxury Features
Volvo S90 Comfort:
- Seating:
- Nappa leather upholstery
- 14-way power adjustable seats
- Massage function
- Ventilated seats
- Climate Control:
- 4-zone automatic climate control
- CleanZone air quality system
- Advanced air filtration
- Humidity control
- Infotainment:
- 9-inch touchscreen
- Bowers & Wilkins audio
- Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- Voice control
Mercedes E-Class Comfort:
- Seating:
- Multi-contour seats with massage
- Rapid heating function
- Active seat bolstering
- Memory package
- Climate Control:
- Thermotronic 4-zone climate
- Air Balance package
- Fragrance system
- Ionization
- Infotainment:
- MBUX with AI capabilities
- Burmester 4D surround sound
- Augmented reality navigation
- Digital cockpit
Performance and Handling
Volvo S90:
- Engine Options:
- B6 Mild Hybrid: 295 hp
- Recharge T8: 455 hp (PHEV)
- Driving Dynamics:
- All-wheel drive available
- Air suspension
- 8-speed automatic
Mercedes E-Class:
- Engine Options:
- E350: 255 hp
- E450: 362 hp
- AMG E53: 429 hp
- Driving Dynamics:
- 4MATIC all-wheel drive
- Air Body Control
- 9-speed automatic
Interior Design and Quality
Volvo S90:
- Design Philosophy:
- Scandinavian minimalism
- Sustainable materials
- Natural wood inlays
- Crystal gear selector
- Space:
- Rear legroom: 40.4 inches
- Trunk space: 13.5 cu.ft.
- Headroom: 38.7 inches
Mercedes E-Class:
- Design Philosophy:
- Modern luxury
- Premium materials
- Ambient lighting (64 colors)
- Open-pore wood trim
- Space:
- Rear legroom: 36.2 inches
- Trunk space: 13.1 cu.ft.
- Headroom: 37.3 inches
Price Comparison (2025)
Volvo S90:
- Base Model: $54,995
- R-Design: $58,995
- Inscription: $63,995
- Recharge Ultimate: $70,995
Mercedes E-Class:
- E350: $57,800
- E450: $62,750
- AMG E53: $75,000
- Fully Loaded: $85,000+
Final Verdict
Choose the Volvo S90 if you prioritize:
- Advanced safety features
- Spacious rear seating
- Clean, minimalist design
- Better value proposition
- Environmental consciousness
Choose the Mercedes E-Class if you prefer:
- Traditional luxury appeal
- More engine options
- Advanced infotainment
- Sporty handling
- Brand prestige
Both vehicles excel in their respective areas, with the Volvo S90 leading in safety innovation and practical comfort, while the Mercedes E-Class offers a more traditional luxury experience with superior performance options. Your choice should depend on whether you prioritize cutting-edge safety technology and understated luxury (Volvo) or traditional luxury with more emphasis on performance and technology (Mercedes).