Battle of the Premium EVs: Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance vs Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV

The high-end electric SUV arena is a heated mess right now, as traditional luxury marques face off against bold newcomers. Two models that always draw a crowd are the Volvo EX90 and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV. These cars are the ultimate expression of their brands in terms of technology, performance, and sustainable luxury, packaged in compelling seven-seat offerings. Not only do they make a big impression when it comes to range and power, but they redefine the practical family vehicle.

Built on a foundation of safety and with minimalist design, the Volvo EX90 is a beacon of Scandinavian innovation. It is a new way, a very different way, and it shakes up the establishment with a dose of intelligence and user-first thinking. The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, on the other hand, is built upon a century of automotive tradition and brings the iconic luxury of the S-Class into the electric age. Creating an interesting dynamic: Volvo’s dynamic, technology-first challenger versus Mercedes classic, fee-festooned flagship.

This review will get into the nitty-gritty of a side-by-side comparison between the Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance and the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV. We’ll compare everything from design philosophy and performance credentials to interior comfort and technology. In this guide, based on the strengths of products, we’ve strived to help you get a clearer idea of which of these exceptionally well-engineered electric SUVs should be your pick, providing you with some great insight for “Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV Review.”

Quick Recap

Here is a brief overview of what each vehicle offers:

• Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance
  • Manufacturer: Volvo
  • Model Year: 2024
  • Car Type: 7-Seater Large SUV, 7 Seats, 7 Seats+2
  • Trims Available: Twin Motor, Twin Motor Performance
  • Design: Minimalist Scandinavian design with clean lines and Thor’s Hammer-shaped headlights, with a sustainable material focus.
  • Performance: 0-62 mph in 4.9 seconds with 380 kW (517 hp) of power and 910 Nm of torque.
  • Powertrain: Two electric motors, all-wheel drive.
  • More power: now 302 hp with Turboback or 333 hp with DSSV exhaust.
  • Features: LiDAR as standard, Google built-in infotainment, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
  • Price Range: From around £96,255.
• Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
  • Make: Mercedes-Benz
  • Year: 2024 Model
  • Type of vehicle: 7-Seater Large SUV
  • Trim Level: 450 4MATIC, 500 4MATIC, 580 4MATIC.
  • Design: “One-bow” design language, smooth surfaces, optional Hyperscreen dashboard.
  • Powertrain: Up to 400 kW (544 hp) with 858 Nm torque, 0-62 mph in 4.6 seconds (580 4MATIC).
  • Drivetrain options: rear-wheel drive for standard model; dual-motor all-wheel drive for dual-motor and tri-motor models.
  • Technology: MBUX Hyperscreen, rear-axle steering, DIGITAL LIGHT.
  • Pricing: From around £129,575.

Overview & Design Inspirations: EX90 Twin Motor Performance

Volvo and Mercedes-Benz have taken fundamentally different approaches to the design of their top-of-the-line electric SUVs, one that speaks to their core brand identities. The philosophy for the EX90 is one of form following function, wrapped up in their tenet that “design should make your life easier.” The exterior is a learned reserve with simple, unadorned planes and crisp, angular planes. The iconic Thor’s Hammer headlights have been redesigned for the electric era, and the boxy traditional SUV shape is most practical when it comes to interior space and conveying a feeling of security and sturdiness. It’s a style that’s less about theatricality and more about intelligent, purposeful craft.

“Modern classics, that’s the term, coined by Klaus Maier, head of Mercedes-Benz design, that best encapsulates the current model range. The EQS SUV has a “one-bow” cab-forward design, the shape of a boat’s hull, and smooth, uninterrupted bodywork that emphasises aerodynamic efficiency to boost range. This creates a softer, more curved profile than the Volvo. The aim is to channel a sense of out-of-the-future opulence and technological excellence, a way to say, visually at least, that this isn’t just any old SUV, but another member of the advanced EQ range. This difference in styling usually results in a clear winner: the subtlety of the EX90 will attract those who value understated elegance, while the striking, space-age look of the EQS SUV will appeal to buyers looking to turn heads. That said, both cars are obviously competing against each other in the premium 7-seat EV market. 

They are both designed for wealthy families who need space, safety and sustainability but don’t want to sacrifice luxury or technology. The fundamental commonality is that they are intended to be the best all-electric family haulier out there. Their rivalry is built on fundamentally different approaches to how they get there. The EX90 promotes a minimalist, technology-driven vision centred on safety, while the EQS SUV builds on a heritage of plush luxury and sculptural design. In doing so, it pitches them as head-to-head competitors for prospective buyers seeking new-age pragmatism versus tried and true prestige.

• The EX90’s LiDAR “hump” signifies its safety-first engineering approach.
• The EQS SUV’s optional Hyperscreen offers an immersive, tech-forward cabin experience.
• Both vehicles utilise sustainable materials, reflecting a modern approach to luxury.

EX90 Twin Motor Performance: Variants & Trims Breakdown

Comparing the Volvo EX90 with the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV also means understanding how their trim levels differ. Volvo stays true to being uncomplicated with just two rear-wheel-drive options: the Twin Motor and the Twin Motor Performance. Mercedes-Benz has a wider selection, mostly distinguished by power levels.

The Volvo EX90 Twin Motor is the baseline, but it is anything but simple. It packs a powerful 300 kW (408 hp) and comes well-equipped, with the full complement of safety features led by LiDAR. The Twin Motor Performance package, as the name indicates, further improves the driving dynamics with a raised power output of 380 kW (517 hp), enabling faster acceleration. What makes the EX90 a great buy is the breadth of that standard kit; essentials like the panoramic roof, sophisticated infotainment, and the basic safety systems that matter are part of the offering right out of the gate.

Mercedes-Benz has nine different models for the EQS SUV: 450 4MATIC, 500 4MATIC, and 580 4MATIC from the 4MATIC models. Each echelon has a good boost in power and capabilities. Plenty of power. The 450 has more-than-adequate power for everyday driving, while the 580 has brute acceleration that can keep up with high-performance saloons. In fairness, though, this allows great flexibility as well as, in this case, a lot of options on the price, with the MBUX Hyperscreen, for example, an expensive option.

Variants & Trims Comparison

Feature	Volvo EX90 Twin Motor	Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance	Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 4MATIC	Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC
Starting Price (est.)	£96,255	£100,555	£129,575	£149,575
Power Output	300 kW (408 hp)	380 kW (517 hp)	265 kW (360 hp)	400 kW (544 hp)
Torque	770 Nm	910 Nm	800 Nm	858 Nm
0-62 mph	5.9 seconds	4.9 seconds	6.0 seconds	4.6 seconds
Key Value Proposition	Comprehensive standard equipment, integrated safety	Enhanced power and acceleration for a sportier drive.	Balanced performance with access to Mercedes luxury	Flagship performance and extensive customisation
Notable Features	LiDAR, Google Built-in, Panoramic Roof (Standard)	Uprated power, unique wheel designs	Airmatic Suspension, 12.8-inch display (Standard)	MBUX Hyperscreen (Optional), Rear-axle steering

Spec Sheet Appendix

Specification	Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance	Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC SUV
Battery Capacity	111 kWh (107 kWh usable)	108.4 kWh usable
Max Range (WLTP)	Up to 364 miles	Up to 380 miles
Max DC Charging	250 kW	200 kW
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive	All-Wheel Drive
Length	5,037 mm	5,125 mm
Width	1,964 mm	1,959 mm
Height	1,744 mm	1,718 mm
Boot Space	310L (7 seats) / 655L (5 seats)	195L (7 seats) / 645L (5 seats)

Note: Specifications are manufacturer-quoted and may vary by market and optional equipment.

Performance & Driving Experience: EX90 Twin Motor Performance

Driving experience: Silent and instant torque is a powerhouse for both SUVs, as this is something premium EV owners will expect excitedly. Tailored performance The Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance is designed to move forward with assurance and tranquillity. With 380 kW (517 hp) and a colossal 910 Nm of torque, it enjoys effortless acceleration, and this big SUV rockets from 0-62 mph in just 4.9 seconds. Volvo, however, has made the power delivery smooth and gradual, not harsh. The standard dual-chamber air suspension is tuned for a comfort-oriented ride, expertly filtering out potholes and other road surface waves to maintain a relaxed and isolated interior atmosphere. Light and sharp, the EX90 is unexpectedly easy to drive around town. It also feels sturdy and planted on the highway.

The Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC SUV is more playful and engaging despite its imposing proportions. It’s just a little quicker off the line with 544 hp (400 kW), and it goes from 0 to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds. The standard Airmatic suspension and an optional rear-axle steering (which can turn the rear wheels up to 10 degrees) provide the EQS SUV with exquisite manoeuvrability, considering its size. In narrow city streets, it seems a lot smaller than it is, and on twisting country lanes, it rounds bends with surprising flatness and calm. The various driving modes (Dynamic Select) specify the vehicle behaviour extremely, ranging from a soft, comfortable vehicle to a hard, sporty vehicle.

Both cars undoubtedly provide the most refined ride in their class, but the real difference is what they’re centred on driving. The EX90 is the very definition of a calm cruiser. Its performance is available when you want it, but its primary objective is to move its occupants in the highest form of comfort and safety. The EQS SUV is similarly comfortable, but it has a broader dynamic bandwidth and greater driver engagement feel, which is especially pronounced with its advanced chassis tech fitted.

Performance & Driving Experience Comparison

Feature	Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance	Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC SUV
Acceleration (0-62)	4.9 seconds	4.6 seconds
Suspension System	Dual-Chamber Air Suspension	Airmatic Air Suspension with Adaptive Damping
Driving Modes	Pre-set modes focused on comfort and efficiency.	DYNAMIC SELECT with Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual modes
Driving Feel	Calm, composed, and comfort-oriented. Effortless and secure.	Agile, dynamic, and customisable. Engaging yet refined.
Special Features	One-pedal drive capability for smooth urban driving.	Optional rear-axle steering for enhanced manoeuvrability.

• The EX90’s air suspension provides a consistently smooth ride, isolating passengers from poor road surfaces.
• The EQS SUV’s rear-axle steering makes parking and U-turns remarkably simple for such a large vehicle.
• Both offer seamless, silent acceleration ideal for relaxed motorway cruising.

EX90 Twin Motor Performance: Interior, Comfort & Technology

Entering these two SUVs, however, their differences in modern luxury become clear. The Volvo EX90’s interior is a celebration of Scandinavian minimalism. Controlling virtually all vehicle functions is a large, 14.5-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen that dominates the dash. This minimalistic philosophy gives way to a peaceful and airy environment. The materials are a high point, emphasising sustainability. Options include Nordico, a fabric made with recycled materials, and responsibly sourced wool blend upholstery.

The ergonomics are excellent, the seats are supportive, and the overall design is so logical that you just know where everything is. There is a lot of storage, and room for all seven passengers is so generous that this is a quintessentially practical family car.

The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, particularly when equipped with the additional MBUX Hyperscreen, is a spectacle of technological extravagance. The Hyperscreen is composed of a single 56-inch curved glass panel that houses three separate screens, presenting an immersive, futuristic control centre. The interior styling is more ostentatious than the Volvos’, featuring complex ambient lighting, brushed metals, and luxurious leather. Multi-contour seats with massage functions and numerous adjustments ensure maximum comfort. The front and second-row seats are incredibly spacious and comfortable, but the third row is just a little bit tighter than the one in the EX90, making it more suitable for children or short trips. 

Technology is a big battleground here. The EX90’s system runs on Google’s Android Automotive OS with native Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to the Play Store. It’s fast, intuitive and takes full advantage of being tied into the Google ecosystem. The MBUX system in the EQS SUV is more involved and feature-packed, with the “Zero Layer” interface designed to bring the most important information at a glance, so you don’t have to dig through menus. Both cars offer sophisticated driver-assistance systems, but Volvo’s standard addition of LiDAR gives it a technological advantage in the realm of safety sensors, future-proofing the vehicle for higher-level autonomous features.

• The EX90’s Google-based infotainment is simple and intuitive, making navigation and voice commands seamless.
• The EQS SUV’s Hyperscreen provides an unparalleled ‘wow’ factor and deep customisation for tech enthusiasts.
• Volvo’s use of sustainable Nordico and wool materials offers a unique and responsible take on luxury.

Design & Exterior

The Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV present a robust statement in exterior design, both staying true to their brand DNA while redefining what’s possible for the electric SUV. The EX90 is all Volvo, sleek and upright; it is a quintessential expression of Scandinavian simplicity, layered with a focus on use and tempered by calming proportions. With its pronounced shoulder lines, signature Thor’s Hammer headlights and tasteful application of chrome, it exudes silent determination. Every detail, from the flush-mounted door handles to the contoured rear, speaks of Volvo’s dedication to both aero efficiency and clean design.

Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV adopts a markedly futuristic profile. Its ‘one-bow’ contour lines are practical as they are powerful, and the continuous, uninterrupted surface crafts a feeling of ease of motion. The dominant lit grille, joined by Digital Light headlamps and sinuous lines, adds a theatrical touch signature to the modern Mercedes. The architecture isn’t just for looks: the EQS SUV displays its aerodynamic crafting with pride, featuring retractable door handles and a low drag coefficient that improves range and refinement. View more. For the younger buyers, expressing looks and technological lighting elements of the EQS SUV have a stronger impact and represent the innovation and the presence of the brand. More refined customers might be drawn to the EX90’s timeless, understated design, confidence and functionality without flamboyance. Both vehicles reflect design language that conveys awareness of the environment, but with different interpretations: The EX90 emanates a placid, welcoming simplicity, whereas the EQS SUV sides with futuristic spectacle.

Exterior Comparison Table

Feature	Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance	Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
Available Colours	Vapour Grey, Onyx Black, Denim Blue, Crystal White, Platinum Grey, Silver Dawn	Obsidian Black, Sodalite Blue, MANUFAKTUR Diamond White, Graphite Grey, Iridium Silver, Twilight Blue
Lighting Signature	Thor’s Hammer LED headlights, LED tail lights; signature LED light bar front and rear	Digital Light w/ ultra-high-res projection, continuous light strip, animated welcome signature
Aerodynamics	Flat underbody, integrated rear spoiler, flush door handles; Cd 0.29	‘One-bow’ design, retractable door handles, airflow optimised wheels; Cd 0.26
Body Detailing	Clean lines, pronounced shoulders, subtle chrome, robust stance	Smooth surfaces, illuminated grille, chrome accents, muscular wheel arches

• The EX90 offers understated elegance and functional styling suited for drivers prioritising refinement and practicality.
• The EQS SUV’s ‘one-bow’ architecture showcases its aerodynamic advantage, supporting range and reducing wind noise.
• Each car features a distinctive lighting identity, aiding both brand recognition and safety.

Safety & Reliability

Safety is at the core of the Volvo brand, and EX90 has been engineered to be the safest Volvo we have ever built. At the core of the safety system sits a standard roof-mounted LiDAR sensor. The Pedestrian Infrared Detection has a range of up to 250 metres in detecting pedestrians and on the detection of small and dark objects such as a tyre on the road, at 120 metres, day or night. It complements the vehicle’s eight cameras, five radars, and sixteen ultrasonic sensors to provide a 360-degree real-time map of the car’s environment. This is the “invisible shield of protection” that will drive a new segment of driver assistance and collision avoidance applications.” While Euro NCAP ratings are not yet official, Volvo’s track record and the advanced hardware of the EX90 make us predict a top-tier score.

Mercedes-Benz has a well-deserved reputation for safety, and the EQS SUV offers a full complement of active and passive safety technology. Driving Assistance Package: Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, and Active Brake Assist. The vehicle’s stiff passenger cage and multiple airbags are intended to keep occupants safe in a crash. The EQS, which has the same Architecture as the EQE but the latter is much smaller, has already scored a five-star rating from Euro NCAP, with the test organisation praising its crash protection and the performance of its assistance systems. 

The basic distinction is the way they use technology. Volvo has gone all-in on LiDAR as the future of automotive safety and as a standard means to obtain more granular data about the world around the car. Mercedes-Benz Today’s system is based on a very sophisticated camera and radar system, which is proven to be very effective. That means both cars should be spectacularly safe buys. In the end, it might simply come down to whether you prefer Volvo’s future-forward, sensor-centric system or the tried and true, highly refined system from Mercedes-Benz.

• The EX90’s standard LiDAR provides superior detection capabilities in various light and weather conditions, enhancing pedestrian safety.
• The EQS SUV’s five-star Euro NCAP rating provides verified, independent assurance of its crashworthiness.
• Both vehicles include advanced driver aids that reduce stress on long journeys and in heavy traffic.

Comparison Section

To start with, the bottom line on this ‘Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV Review,’ let’s consider how they stack up against other rivals in the high-end electric SUV market. Different models, such as the BMW iX or the rooty tooty fresh and juicy Audi Q8 e-tron, provide viable options with their very own perks.

The BMW iX, especially its xDrive50 variant, is a formidable contender. It has a similarly striking and futuristic design, a beautifully designed interior with unique materials such as crystal glass control and a comfortable driving experience that provides a good balance of comfort and the dynamic handling that BMW is known for. It has a very competitive range, and the in-car technology, which revolves around the massive curved screen, is top-notch. The iX is a draw for those wanting a more driver-centric experience than the EQS SUV and a more extroverted design than the EX90.

The Audi Q8 e-tron takes a more tempered, conventional approach. High-quality, comfortable, with a quiet ride, and now with rapid charging as well, what’s not to like? Its styling is more subdued than that of its competitors, which might be attractive to some buyers who want understated luxury for their EV. While it may not have the headline-grabbing tech of the Volvos or Mercedes, it is a refined, capable and polished vehicle that provides a premium experience.

Feature	Volvo EX90 Performance	Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 SUV	BMW iX xDrive50	Audi Q8 e-tron 55 quattro
Price (est.)	~£100,555	~£149,575	~£102,755	~£77,500
Power	380 kW (517 hp)	400 kW (544 hp)	385 kW (523 hp)	300 kW (408 hp)
Range (WLTP)	Up to 364 miles	Up to 380 miles	Up to 382 miles	Up to 330 miles
Design	Minimalist, Functional	Aerodynamic, Futuristic	Bold, Avant-garde	Conservative, Understated
Best For	Safety-focused families	Tech-loving luxury buyers	Enthusiastic drivers	Traditional luxury buyers

Why Choose the Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance vs Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV?

Choosing between these two great vehicles ultimately comes down to priorities and personal preference. They are both two of the best electric SUVs currently available, but they serve slightly different lifestyles and values. An intelligent, human-centric design makes the Volvo EX90 stand out. This is the perfect pick for a family that is looking for an inherently safe, practical, and understated sustainable luxury. With its spacious seven-seat cabin, class-leading standard safety technology and seamless Google-based infotainment, it has all you need to make life easy and reassuring. Whether it’s the daily commute, the school run or a holiday drive over many miles, the EX90 delivers comfort, calm and security.

The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, for instance, is a proclamation of status and technological aspiration. This is the buyer who wants the very best of automotive luxury and is attracted by ultra-modern features such as the Hyperscreen and rear-axle steering. It is an exceptionally long-distance vehicle, its passengers wrapped in a cavernous, hushed, ultra-luxurious interior. While it is also a useful seven-seat family car, in fact, its kudos and style are key to its appeal. It suits the lifestyle of people who see their cars as more than just a means of transportation and want to showcase the latest and greatest.

Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance

• Pros:
  • Class-leading standard safety features, including LiDAR.
  • Clean, minimalist design with a spacious and practical interior.
  • Intuitive and fast Google-based infotainment system.
  • Focus on sustainable and high-quality interior materials.
• Cons:
  • Top speed limited to 112 mph.
  • Design may be too understated for some.

Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV

• Pros:
  • Exceptional interior luxury and comfort.
  • Stunning optional MBUX Hyperscreen.
  • Remarkable agility thanks to optional rear-axle steering.
  • Slightly longer maximum range.
• Cons:
  • Significantly higher starting price.
  • Many key features are costly optional extras.
  • Third-row seating is less spacious than the Volvo’s.

Which Premium Electric SUV Reigns Supreme in 2025?

Is it worth buying one of these luxury electric SUVs? Pumm. The Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance, together with the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, are exemplary representations of what the needs of the electric family will be in the coming years. They have the refinement and technology, and effortless power that today’s drivers expect, but with all the modern creature comforts and practicalities.

Only the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV offers that much luxury, tech integration, and “S-Class” prestige all in one place for buyers eager for uncompromising luxury. It’s a car made to dazzle, a Mercedes-Benz that simply defines how far the company has gone in the era of electrification. If indulgence, glamour and cachet are your priorities, the EQS SUV is your ultimate electric sanctuary.

The Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance, by contrast, incorporates a far saner and more focused vision. It has almost all the luxury and performance of its German rival, but with more focus on safety, sustainability, and day-to-day usability. Standard with LiDAR hardware system, minimalist Scandinavian design and tranquil driving style, the EX90 mirrors the whole concept of driving smarter, not louder. For families that value protection, practicality and peace of mind over plush, over-the-top luxuries, the EX90 isn’t just the sensible option; it’s quite arguably the most future-facing car in the premium EV segment.

• Intelligent design and innovation: A refined balance of technology, sustainability, and safety.
• True luxury redefined: Comfort and craftsmanship without the excess.
• Smart value proposition: Flagship performance and tech at a more accessible price point.

Innovation isn’t just seen, it’s felt. Step inside the EX90 Twin Motor Performance and experience its brilliance on the road today at The.Car.