You should consider this brilliant used estate as your next family car – here’s why

Eight out of the top 10 best-selling cars in the UK last year were SUVs, and not a single estate car featured on the list. Despite this, I reckon a good old-fashioned wagon makes a fabulous family runaround.

The Volvo V90 is a great example. I lived with one for a month, and I loved how practical and stylish it was. Sadly, Volvo discontinued the V90 last year – but that does mean there are some used bargains to be had.

How much is a used Volvo V90?

A used V90 is a bit of a bargain when you compare it to a new one. Although you can’t order a V90 anymore, there are still some new cars in stock with prices starting from around £59,400.

By comparison, I found a 2025 V90 plug-in hybrid with just 8,800 miles on the clock for a shade over £37,000*. It’s also a top-spec Ultra model, which would set you back almost £70,000 to buy new.

This car is almost identical to the one I lived with, meaning it has the 2.0-litre petrol plug-in hybrid engine with a whopping 455hp. It feels properly rapid when you put your foot down, but not in a brutish way. It picks up speed very smoothly and effortlessly, making it feel nice and relaxed.

The Ultra also comes with all the luxury features you’d expect from a posh estate car like this. You get heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system and a mega Bowers & Wilkins sound system with 18 speakers.

Why should you consider a Volvo V90?

There’s a lot to like about the V90, starting with the styling. It’s a properly handsome car, even if it’s not as on-trend as an SUV. The interior is just as lovely, with solid build quality and lots of plush materials. It also feels light and airy thanks to the large windows.

This car is a joy to drive, too. It’s not as fun through the corners as a BMW 5 Series, but this is because the V90 is geared towards comfort. You sink into the supportive seats and waft around in silence as the suspension soaks up all the bumps.

It’s worth noting that this car isn’t as practical as other estate cars of this size thanks to a smaller-than-average boot and rear seats, but despite this it’s still plenty spacious enough for a family of four. If you’re after a comfortable and stylish estate car with loads of kit, I’d recommend a Volvo V90.

Used Volvo V90 alternatives

As much as I like the V90, I can admit it’s not perfect. Here are three alternatives you could also consider, each addressing one of the Volvo’s downsides.

BMW 5 Series Touring: More fun to drive

The V90 may be brilliant if you value comfort over anything else, but the BMW 5 Series Touring is very nearly as smooth over bumps and is more fun on a twisty road. It’s the better choice for keen drivers.

Mercedes E-Class Estate: The more practical choice

I mentioned that the Volvo’s boot is on the small side. Well at 488 litres it is well and truly thrashed by the Mercedes E-Class Estate’s 615-litre load area. The Mercedes is also more spacious in the back seats, making it the more practical option.

Skoda Superb Estate: Value and simplicity

You can pick up a brand new Skoda Superb Estate for similar money to a used V90, and if all you want is a no-nonsense, practical and comfy estate car then it’s hard to beat. The interior tech is also easier to use than the Volvo’s thanks to the physical knobs and switches.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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*Savings are made up of the maximum dealer discount off RRP – subject to dealership, location and trim. Prices correct at the time of writing.