MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS STATIONWAGON

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VOLVO V90

Volvo’s pride in its wagons

Mercedes-Benz, with its flagship model, the S-Class, has a strong image as a luxury sedan. Volvo, on the other hand, is still known for its sturdy and no-nonsense station wagons. When comparing the body sizes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and the Volvo V90, the two cars are very similar. The biggest difference is the weight, but this is due to the difference in the powertrain, which will be discussed later.

Both cars have a luxurious exterior, but the Volvo in particular has very elaborate taillights and a rear gate, which shows how much attention Volvo pays to its station wagons.

Mercedes-Benz E300 Station Wagon Exclusive

Body size = Length 4960mm x Width 1880mm x Height 1480mm

Wheelbase = 2960mm

Vehicle weight = 1950kg

Tire size = 225/55R18

Volvo V90 Recharge Ultimate T8 AWD Plug-in Hybrid

Body size = Total length 4945mm x Total width 1880mm x Total height 1475mm

Wheelbase = 2940mm

Vehicle weight = 2130kg

Tire size = 245/40R20

The V90 has a complex PHV mechanism

Both cars use hybrid mechanisms, but the systems are different. The E-Class is equipped with a mild hybrid system that improves the output of the starter motor that starts the engine. This system assists the engine in situations where fuel consumption is higher, such as during acceleration.

On the other hand, the V90 is a plug-in hybrid (PHV). The V90 has motors on both the front and rear wheels, and both motors are more powerful than the E-Class. Furthermore, the E-Class cannot run on the motor alone, but the PHV V90 can run on the motor alone as an EV. Its maximum cruising range is 81km.

Mercedes-Benz E300 Station Wagon Exclusive

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder DOHC turbo + mild hybrid

Displacement = 1997cc

Maximum output = 258PS / 5800rpm

Maximum torque = 400Nm / 2000-3200rpm

Transmission = 9-speed AT

Drive system = RWD

Volvo V90 Recharge Ultimate T8 AWD Plug-in Hybrid

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder DOHC turbo + plug-in hybrid

Displacement = 1968cc

Maximum output = 317PS/6000rpm

Maximum torque = 400Nm/3000-5400rpm

Transmission = 8-speed AT

Drive system = AWD

Where to find value over 10 million yen

Both cars are luxury station wagons priced at around 11 million yen. However, the E-Class is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine and is priced at 11.39 million yen. The V90 also has a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine, but because it is a plug-in hybrid, it is priced at 11.09 million yen.

If you ignore the brand, I think many people would feel that the V90, with its PHV system, is worth paying 11 million yen for. Furthermore, the V90, which also has a motor on the rear wheels, is naturally an AWD. It also has the functionality of being highly capable off-road, as you’d expect from a Volvo.

Vehicle price

Mercedes-Benz E300 Station Wagon Exclusive: 11.39 million yen

; Volvo V90 Recharge Ultimate T8 AWD Plug-in Hybrid: 11.09 million yen

Related reading

Comparing specs of the “BMW 5 Series Touring” and “Mercedes-Benz E-Class Station Wagon,” two serious rivals priced around 9 million yen

Station wagons, once a major category, are now even available as high-end models from luxury brands. The new BMW 5 Series Touring was announced and introduced in Japan in February 2024, but when purchasing a luxury car, you want to carefully consider your options. This time, we’ll compare the specs with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Station Wagon, its closest rival, priced at around 9 million yen.