Featured Snippet: The 2019 Volvo XC90 SUV and S90 sedan earned IIHS Top Safety Pick awards for perfect crash test scores and superior front crash prevention, but fell short of Top Safety Pick+ due to acceptable (rather than good) headlight ratings.
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Volvo's 2019 Safety Achievement Breakdown
Volvo cemented its reputation for safety in 2019 with five models receiving recognition from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The XC90 three-row SUV and S90 luxury sedan joined the XC40 subcompact SUV (Top Safety Pick+) and XC60 compact SUV (Top Safety Pick) in earning awards, with only the S60 sedan missing out due to headlight performance.
This safety sweep demonstrates Volvo's commitment to occupant protection across its lineup. The Swedish automaker has long prioritized safety innovations, from introducing the three-point seatbelt in 1959 to developing advanced collision avoidance systems in modern vehicles.
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Crash Test Performance: Perfect Scores Where It Matters Most
Both the XC90 and S90 achieved the highest possible ratings in all IIHS crashworthiness evaluations:
- Driver-side small overlap front: Good (the top rating)
- Passenger-side small overlap front: Good (a new 2019 requirement)
- Moderate overlap front: Good
- Side impact: Good
- Roof strength: Good
- Head restraints: Good
The passenger-side small overlap test was particularly significant for 2019, as IIHS made an acceptable or good rating mandatory for Top Safety Pick consideration. This test replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle strikes another vehicle or object like a tree or utility pole at 40 mph.
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Front Crash Prevention: Volvo's City Safety Shines
Both vehicles earned the superior rating for their standard Volvo City Safety system, which includes:
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Pedestrian detection
- Cyclist detection (in certain conditions)
In IIHS track testing, both the XC90 and S90 successfully avoided collisions in:
- 12 mph tests (simulating urban driving)
- 25 mph tests (simulating highway driving)
This performance placed Volvo's system among the best available in 2019, outperforming many competitors' optional systems. The City Safety technology uses a combination of radar and camera sensors to monitor the road ahead and can apply full braking force if it detects an imminent collision.
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The Headlight Challenge: Why They Missed Top Safety Pick+
While the XC90 and S90 excelled in crash protection, their headlight performance prevented them from earning IIHS's highest honor, the Top Safety Pick+ award. Here's how they measured up:
2019 Volvo XC90 Headlights
- Base halogen headlights: Acceptable rating
- Optional adaptive LED headlights: Acceptable rating
2019 Volvo S90 Headlights
- Base headlights: Acceptable rating
- Premium curve-adapted LED reflectors with high-beam assist: Marginal rating
The S90's premium headlights particularly disappointed, with testers noting "inadequate visibility for both low and high beams in several test scenarios." This was surprising given Volvo's reputation for safety and the optional system's premium positioning.
For context, IIHS headlight evaluations consider:
- Illumination on straight roads
- Illumination on curves
- Glare for oncoming drivers
- Automatic high beam performance (if equipped)
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Safety Technology Beyond the Tests
While IIHS testing focuses on specific measurable criteria, Volvo equipped the 2019 XC90 and S90 with numerous additional safety features that contribute to real-world protection:
Standard Safety Features
- Run-off Road Mitigation
- Oncoming Lane Mitigation
- Lane Keeping Aid
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)
- Rear Collision Warning
Available Advanced Systems
- Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving (combines adaptive cruise control and lane centering)
- 360-degree surround view camera
- Park Assist Pilot (automatic parallel and perpendicular parking)
- Rear automatic braking
These technologies demonstrate Volvo's "Vision 2020" commitment that no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by 2020. While not all are factored into IIHS ratings, they contribute to comprehensive real-world safety.
How the Competition Compared in 2019
To understand Volvo's safety achievement in context, it's helpful to examine how key competitors performed in the same IIHS evaluations:
Luxury Three-Row SUVs vs. XC90
- Acura MDX: Top Safety Pick (similar to XC90)
- Audi Q7: Top Safety Pick+ (superior headlights)
- Infiniti QX60: No award (marginal small overlap test)
Luxury Sedans vs. S90
- BMW 5 Series: Top Safety Pick+
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Top Safety Pick
- Lexus ES: Top Safety Pick+
This comparison shows that while Volvo performed well, some German competitors achieved the higher Top Safety Pick+ distinction in 2019, primarily through superior headlight systems. However, Volvo's perfect crash test scores and standard safety equipment gave it an advantage over several Japanese luxury competitors.
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What Owners Should Know About 2019 Volvo Safety
For current owners or prospective used car buyers considering these models, several important safety factors deserve attention:
Maintenance Considerations
- Ensure all safety system sensors (camera, radar) remain properly calibrated
- Replace headlight bulbs with OEM equivalents to maintain IIHS-rated performance
- Keep windshield clean and undamaged for optimal camera operation
Software Updates
Volvo periodically releases software updates for its safety systems. Owners should:
- Check with dealers for available updates
- Address any recall notices promptly
- Consider updating older models to latest software versions
Real-World Performance
While IIHS tests provide standardized comparisons, real-world safety also depends on:
- Proper seat and steering wheel adjustment
- Correct use of child safety seats
- Maintaining proper tire pressure and condition
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The Evolution of Volvo Safety Since 2019
While this analysis focuses on 2019 models, Volvo has continued advancing its safety technology in subsequent years:
Headlight Improvements
Responding to IIHS feedback, Volvo upgraded headlight systems in later models to achieve:
- Better curve illumination
- Improved high-beam performance
- Reduced glare for oncoming traffic
New Safety Features
Recent Volvo models have introduced:
- Advanced driver monitoring systems
- Improved pedestrian/cyclist detection
- Intersection collision avoidance
Electric Vehicle Safety
As Volvo transitions to EVs, they've developed:
- Special battery protection systems
- Unique acoustic warnings for pedestrians
- Enhanced low-speed collision protection
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Expert Recommendations for Safety-Conscious Buyers
For shoppers prioritizing safety in the luxury segment, consider these guidelines:
When Considering a 2019 Volvo
- Verify all safety features are functional during test drives
- Check service records for any collision repairs that might affect safety systems
- Consider aftermarket headlight upgrades if night driving is frequent
Comparing Newer Models
- Look for 2020+ models with improved headlight ratings
- Consider Volvo's electric models with updated safety tech
- Compare warranty coverage for safety system components
Beyond Volvo
- Cross-shop with other Top Safety Pick+ winners
- Consider vehicles with night vision assist if frequently driving in low-light conditions
- Evaluate each brand's standard vs. optional safety equipment
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Conclusion: Volvo's Safety Legacy Continues
The 2019 Volvo XC90 and S90's Top Safety Pick awards reinforce Volvo's position as a safety leader, even if headlight performance kept them from the highest honor. Their perfect crash test scores and standard advanced safety features make them excellent choices for safety-conscious buyers in the luxury segment.
While some competitors achieved slightly higher ratings in 2019, few matched Volvo's comprehensive standard safety package. For used car shoppers, these models represent a compelling combination of safety, luxury, and value—especially when properly maintained with all safety systems functioning as designed.
As Volvo continues innovating toward its vision of zero serious injuries or fatalities in its vehicles, the 2019 XC90 and S90 stand as important milestones in that journey—proving that even near-perfect safety leaves room for improvement in the relentless pursuit of protecting occupants and all road users.
