Volvo S80 D5 & V8 2007 review

Volvo has been struggling with a small model range but that is changing fast with a flood of new models either out now or due this year. The effect at Volvo is measurable with a 37 per cent increase in sales last year alone. The strong result could redouble with the arrival this year of a swag of new Volvos including the delightful C30.

First cab off the rank is the new S80 large car in petrol 4.4-litre V8, 3.2-litre straight six and 2.4-litre diesel five cylinder variants.

It is the second generation S80 following the unloved twin turbo six from a few years ago.

Though a distinct S80 look is apparent, the new one is nothing like the old offering a more stylish appearance, more interior room, longer wheelbase and comprehensively more equip- ment. Thankfully, it has a satisfying combination of performance and handling across the model range.

Volvo is adept at developing new technology and the S80 showcases just what this Swedish manufacturer is capable of.

All variants have a six speed sequential auto with the two petrol versions running all wheel drive and the diesel front wheel drive.

The engines are lifted from the Volvo XC90.

S80 boasts three-mode suspension with comfort, sport and advanced settings. It has a new, stronger body structure and the styling has a more athletic air. Bi-xenon headlights with a see-around-corners function are standard as is climate control air, pollen filter, leather upholstery and a clever key fob that sets the car up for a particular driver. It will even warn if an intruder is inside the car. The interior is hypoallergenic using materials that produce minimal or zero contaminants and the car has a big tick from the Swedish Asthma Association.

All models have premium audio that has to be heard to be believed and there's an auxiliary input jack for your iPod and Bluetooth connectivity.

Some appealing options are available as the blind spot warning system on the rear view mirrors, adaptive cruise control that keeps a measured distance from other vehicles using a radar system and three mode steering that offers light, medium and firm feel .

Prices range from $71,950 for the diesel through to $95,950 for the V8.

At the press launch last week, we drove the V8 and the diesel and can report both are impressive cars. The V8 has oodles of performance and drives like any 232kW V8 should. It also has adaptive suspension and the car we drove also had the adjustable steering. Pretty much all driving scenarios are covered by the settings available - it's simply a matter if dialling it into what you want.

The engine can be frugal for a potent V8 and is smooth and quiet. It was designed and built by Yamaha while the transmission is also from Japanese manufacturer Aisin.

The diesel is a Volvo unit and it too offers plenty of performance thanks mainly to the 400Nm torque output. It's smooth and quiet and though audible at some revs, the diesel has a sporty flavour totally in keeping with the car.

There's plenty of room inside for four, five at a pinch and the boot is large containing only a space saver spare.

Volvo has gone for a minimalist look inside and it works beautifully with no clutter and simple lines to the sweeping dash and clean surfaces.

The cars we drove felt as tight as a drum on some fairly appalling roads and they sat solidly on the road without flinching.

The diesel was a favourite because of its more competitive price, low fuel consumption, (about 7.3 litres/100km average) and strong roll on acceleration. It is also 150kg lighter than the V8 and feels more nimble.

The S80 has impressive safety credentials and fairly bristles with active and passive safety equipment including Volvo's version of ESP.

It also has impressive clean credentials and is 85 per cent recyclable.

Better yet is the V8 price is about $4,000 less than the old twin turbo six. The Germans should be looking over their shoulder.