Before its reveal, the first official pictures of the S90 were shown on Wednesday, 2 December 2015. The S90 was unveiled to the public in January 2016, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. The S90's design was well received, winning the Production Car Design of the Year award for 2015.[15]

While not a direct successor to the second-generation S80, the S90 replaces it as the flagship sedan in Volvo's lineup. Several trim levels are available, ranging from Momentum to Inscription. In July 2016, an optional, cosmetic R-Design package was announced. A long wheelbase version was announced for availability in the United States.[16] A mild hybrid version was offered in 2020.[17] In 2023, Volvo removed conventional engines as an option, meaning mild hybrids are the base engine option in the US.

In Cambodia, the S90 was previously imported and sold by HGB Auto, primarily in short‑wheelbase form, with only the S90 Inscription available through authorized dealerships. In subsequent years, Volvo significantly reduced its presence in the Cambodian market, and as of the mid‑2020s the S90 is no longer officially offered.