While SUVs remain popular in today’s auto market, there are still many who prefer the sleek style of a smaller vehicle with better gas mileage. There are still some really great sedans on the market despite the fact that some automakers no longer produce them. A popular one is the 2021 Volvo S90. Another with good ratings is the 2021 Chrysler 300.

If you’re shopping for a sedan, is the Volvo S90 a good choice? We’ve got all the details. 

The 2021 Volvo S90

The 2021 Volvo S90 is certainly visually appealing. Its stylish exterior puts it solidly in the ranks of the best luxury sedans on the market.

Its appearance may be the best of what the S90 has to offer according to consumer site Consumer Reports. While the S90 looks like it belongs next to other $60,000 midsize luxury sedans, it lacks the performance and refinement of those peers to hold the position.

The 2021 Volvo S90 offers two powertrain options with two turbocharged four-cylinder engines. You get standard all-wheel drive with the turbocharged and supercharged T6. And the team at Consumer Reports noted that they got 23 mpg overall with a T6-equipped model.

Why you should avoid the latest Volvo S90

In a segment that likes speed, the Volvo S90 falls short. It offers enough power to function in the real world but not what you’d expect from a luxury sedan. CR found it took more than seven seconds to get to 60 mph from zero.

As a daily driver, the engine noise is something you will notice but isn’t something you’ll appreciate for the price. The team at CR found that it had a stiff ride with a suspension that doesn’t insulate you from the road imperfections. They found it leaves you feeling less than stable.

There’s no performance driving experience here no matter how solid its handling is.  The ride lacks the excitement that’s the big draw for most in a luxury car. They also pointed out that the S90’s predicted reliability rating is below average.

Like the outside, the interior of the S90 is stunning. Crafted from high-quality materials like soft leather and matte wood, the inside is modern and elegant. 

An under-the-radar alternative

Consumer Reports explains that when they designate something as an under-the-radar alternative, they mean a model that has a better score but that doesn’t enjoy the same popularity.

That’s the case with the 2021 Chrysler 300. Consumer Reports gave the 300 an overall score of 78 which easily beats the score of 50 it assigned to the S90. 

One of the better big sedans on the market, the 300 is spacious and has an upscale feel. The best part? It costs a lot less than most luxury brands including the S90.

The Chrysler 300 gets good power from a 5.7-liter V8 engine though it only gets 20 mpg. There’s also a 3.6-liter V6 with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive that offers solid power and gets 22 mpg overall. It handles very well.

The Chrysler 300 easily seats up to five adults comfortably in an interior that’s pretty swanky and quiet. The Uconnect infotainment system is included, and it’s very user-friendly. Many find it easier to use than the systems found in true luxury sedans.

When it comes to active safety features, the 2021 Chrysler 300 offers a forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. But you have to buy the pricey option packages.

If you’re looking for a quality midsize sedan other than the Volvo S90, give the 2021 Chrysler 300 a closer look. It received four out of five ratings for predicted reliability and predicted owner satisfaction from Consumer Reports. With an appealing price tag and an upscale vibe, it offers good value.