What the 2018 Volvo S90 T5 Momentum Is
The 2018 Volvo S90 T5 Momentum is the base trim of the second-generation S90 sedan. It pairs Volvo's 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The Momentum badge signals a specific artistic direction for the exterior, drawing from Polestar's design language, and it defines the starting point for the S90's equipment list.
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Engine and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the T5 engine produces 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. That output is enough to propel the S90 T5 Momentum from zero to 60 mph in roughly 6.3 seconds in early testing, which feels brisk for a luxury sedan in this segment. The eight-speed automatic shifts smoothly under most conditions, though it can hesitate slightly during aggressive downshifts when the throttle is pressed hard. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available on higher trims but not offered on the base Momentum.
Exterior and Design Cues
The Momentum trim is visually distinct from the R-Design and Inscription variants. It uses a black mesh grille with a diamond-pattern insert, black side mirrors and window trim, and dark-finished alloy wheels that give the sedan a more aggressive stance. The body-color lower cladding adds a contrast element that aligns with the Polestar design philosophy. Overall, the T5 Momentum looks purposeful without the extra cost of the larger wheel packages found on R-Design.
Interior Features and Comfort
Inside, the 2018 S90 T5 Momentum comes cloth-trimmed front seats as standard, with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and paddle shifters. The Sensus infotainment system runs on a nine-inch vertical touchscreen and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard driver assistance includes City Safety with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, and a pilot assist function that can handle steering and speed adjustments on highways. The rear seat offers comfortable legroom, though the center armrest lacks a fold-down function.
| Feature | T5 Momentum (2018) | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4, 250 hp | Front-wheel drive, paired with 8-speed auto |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | Paddle shifters standard |
| Drive Type | Front-wheel drive | AWD optional on other trims |
| Seating Material | Cloth with leather steering wheel | Upper trims offer Nappa leather |
| Infotainment | 9-inch touchscreen, Sensus | Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Safety Suite | City Safety standard | Adaptive cruise, pilot assist included |
| Exterior Style | Black grille, dark trim, 18-in wheels | Polestar-inspired look |
Who Should Consider the T5 Momentum
The 2018 S90 T5 Momentum is aimed at buyers who want a modern Volvo with strong safety credentials, a refined powertrain, and a stylish exterior, but who want to start at a lower price point than the Inscription or R-Design. It suits daily commuters and road-trippers who prioritize the Sensus interface and the full suite of driver-assistance features over the cosmetic upgrades and larger wheels found on the upper trims. The T5 Momentum is also a practical choice for those who do not need all-wheel drive and are comfortable with front-wheel-drive dynamics in moderate climates.
Known Drawbacks and Considerations
The base Momentum trim does not include heated rear seats, which are available on higher trims. The front seats, while supportive, lack the ventilation and massage functions found on the Inscription. Cargo space is competitive but not class-leading. Buyers should also factor in that the 2018 model year predates some of the mid-cycle updates and software refinements introduced in later model years, which can affect infotainment responsiveness and feature availability over time.