Why Is Volvo Ending Production of the V90 Estate?
If you’ve ever admired the Volvo V90 gliding down the road—sleek, understated, and unmistakably Scandinavian—you might be surprised to hear that its days are numbered. Volvo has officially confirmed that production of its largest and most luxurious estate car will end in September. So, what’s driving this decision, and what does it mean for fans of classic wagons?
The answer is a mix of changing tastes, strategic planning, and the relentless march toward electrification. Volvo’s statement points to its “global cycle plan,” a roadmap that’s guiding the company through a period of rapid transformation. The V90’s sibling, the S90 saloon, was already discontinued last year to make space for the all-electric ES90 liftback. That new model is set to arrive in the UK early next year, but whether it will inspire a traditional estate variant remains uncertain.
Are Estates Falling Out of Favor in the Age of SUVs?
Let’s be honest: the automotive landscape has shifted dramatically over the past decade. SUVs have gone from niche to mainstream, and their popularity shows no signs of slowing down. Former Volvo CEO Jim Rowan was candid about this trend, noting that SUVs have “changed with ride height” and now offer much of the practicality that once made estates so appealing.
The ES90, for example, features a raised ride height and a hatchback boot, along with versatile 40:20:40-split rear seats—features that blur the line between estate and SUV. It’s not just about looks; it’s about function. People want vehicles that can handle a trip to the hardware store, a family road trip, or a muddy dog walk—all without sacrificing comfort or style.
Can the XC60 Fill the Gap Left by the V90?
With the V90 bowing out, Volvo is looking at its existing lineup to see where the pieces might fit. The XC60 SUV, already a best-seller, could be repositioned to attract those who would have chosen a V90 in the past. Special editions like the Black Edition and Cross Country offer a range of options built on the same core platform, giving buyers more ways to tailor their vehicle to their needs.
This approach isn’t unique to Volvo. Across the industry, brands are consolidating platforms and offering more variants to maximize efficiency and appeal. It’s a smart move in a market where flexibility and choice are key.
Why Did Volvo Bring Back the V60 and V90 to the UK—Only to End the V90 Again?
Here’s where things get interesting. In 2023, Volvo pulled both the V60 and V90 from the UK market, only to reinstate them in July 2024 after a surge in demand. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of estate cars—especially in the UK, where practicality and understated style have always found a loyal audience.
But the V90’s return was short-lived. While production is ending, Volvo UK has confirmed that customers can still order the smaller V60 for the foreseeable future. As for the V90, interested buyers are encouraged to check with their local dealer about remaining stock. It’s a bittersweet moment for wagon enthusiasts, but not an unexpected one.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Volvo Estates?
Volvo’s estate cars have a storied history, dating back to the 1950s. They’ve been the go-to choice for families, adventurers, and anyone who values a blend of utility and elegance. But the writing is on the wall: the future is electric, and it’s increasingly SUV-shaped.
That doesn’t mean the spirit of the estate is gone. The new ES90, with its practical boot and flexible seating, hints at a future where the best features of wagons live on in new forms. And with Volvo’s commitment to electrification—aiming for half of its global sales to be fully electric by 2025, according to company reports—the brand is clearly focused on what comes next.
Is Now the Time to Buy a V90?
If you’ve always wanted a V90, this is your last call. With production winding down, availability will become increasingly limited. Volvo UK advises interested buyers to act quickly and check with dealers about remaining inventory.
For those who prefer a slightly smaller package, the V60 remains available and continues to offer much of the practicality and style that made the V90 a standout.
The Takeaway: A Fond Farewell, but Not the End of Practical Luxury
The end of the V90 marks the close of a chapter, but not the end of the story. Volvo is evolving, responding to new demands and technologies, but the core values—safety, practicality, and understated luxury—remain. Whether you’re a die-hard estate fan or just someone who appreciates thoughtful design, there’s still plenty to look forward to from Volvo.
And who knows? In a world where trends come and go, the estate might just make a comeback when we least expect it. For now, though, it’s time to say goodbye to a modern classic—and keep an eye on what’s next.