Volvo S80 Reviews

Ewan Kennedy road tests and reviews the used1998-2013 Volvo S80.

The traditional prestige players are priced beyond the means of most of us -- but the qualitative difference separating the business class and the topline versions of the rest has diminished to the point of non-existence. All right, you'll look better in the car park comparison stakes if you drive the exxier choices listed here, but you're by no means always driving the better car.WAGONSOne's a classy Volkswagen Group sport wagon with a direct injection turbo petrol engine with the option of a cutting-edge transmission. And so's the Audi.The Czech-made Skoda is essentially a bigger in the body, more discreet, better riding and cheaper VW Golf GTI, the car that more than any other blurs the distinction between the prestige pack and the rest.The handling-enhancing electronic diff of the new GTI is on its way to the RS, so while the twin clutch DSG adds $2300, the generous standard kit (including tasty 18s) and skinny options list means there's not a lot more to spend. Rare is the Audi of which that can be said.The output of the front-wheel-drive Avant's turbo four is similar (132kW/320Nm plays Skoda's 147kW/280Nm), limited for its continuously variable transmission. Quattro and the full-fat engine sets you back another $13,000 -- and the premium is already just a bit silly.SEDANSOne's a perfectly balanced, rear-wheel-drive, inline petrol six with great steering and a six-speed ZF automatic. And so's the BMW.All right, we're comparing a big tarted-up Aussie taxi with a thoroughbred mid-size Bavarian sport sedan here, but what of it? Priced $33K south, this Falcon is probably the best-value car in the country on a metal for money basis and that price difference buys a lot of basic unleaded petrol for that 4.0-litre atmo six with its whacking 195kW/391Nm. If there's a quickish car that rides as well as the Falcon, it's known not unto us.As to the Bimmer, well, you'd go there if you could, even if the peerless handling comes at the price of run-flat tyres and an options list to make your eyes bleed.DIESELSOne's a European-built front-wheel-drive with a sophisticated turbodiesel engine and bank-vault build quality. And so's the Volvo. Now the first prestige Euro to be owned by a Chinese company, Volvo did rather well out of its association with Ford (certainly better than Saab did out of GM). But the years of proximity invite comparison.Long the choice of UK sales reps and families, the Mondeo's marriage of the diesel with an auto and capable dynamics give it a comfortable niche position at this level of the market. The Titanium edition gives the long Ford the trim and kit to compare with the premium brigade.Despite its more potent five-cylinder engine and Swedish aura of invulnerability, we just can't see the extra spend in the stolid Volvo.SUVSOne's the best-driving compact SUV and... uh, that's the BMW, actually. We've often said that if BMW made front-wheel-drive family cars they'd handle like Mazdas, so the two brands' respective four-wheel-drives should logically be even closer.Not quite, but not to the extent that the X3 is nigh-on $20K better. The X3's only real advantage in Australia's restricted conditions is its standard six-speed auto. Stop us if you're tired of hearing this, Mazda doesn't yet have a slusher for its diesel.While the Mazda's engine is slightly bigger and more potent than the BMW diesel, it has to haul a nearly two-tonne kerb weight. The X3 is 250kg lighter but, within, it's also the most dated Bimmer.How much is that badge worth, again?

I have a bookshelf made by me when I temporarily became a subcontractor to Ikea. You can tell I built it because there are some flaws.The nail holes in the white plastic coating on the shelves, for example, is where I missed the instruction that indicated nails should go into the side without the pretty plastic finish.While I waited for my wife to come down from the ceiling, I figured white paint or Liquid Paper would coat the holes and no-one would notice. It didn't work and every guest notices. If they miss the holes, then my wife is sure to point them out.Life is supposed to be simple but you can see that we face frequent complications. Which is why I spent far too long looking for any flaws in Volvo's prestige saloon, the S80.Like Ikea, it comes from Sweden and is refreshingly simple. So simple that the S80 is a hassle-free joy to drive yet so simple that in many people's eyes, it doesn't instantly reflect its near-$80,000 price tag.That ignores the fact that the S80 — now in a petrol six-cylinder version to compliment the diesel and the V8 — is very well equipped and more than competitive with its BMW 5-Series, Audi A6, Mercedes C-Class and Jaguar X-Type rivals.Externally the S80 cleverly uses round-edged wedge and scalloped flank shapes to disguise its size. It is neat and, in an Ikea-ish way, so similar to the half-price S40 model as to be twins.While it may look too much like its cheaper sister, it shares none of its drivetrain components or philosophy. This is a Volvo to fang. The turbocharged, inline six-cylinder engine stretches transversely between the MacPherson strut towers and drives through a six-speed sequential auto to all wheels. That's the first indication of its potential.The 3-litre engine may sound a tad smallish but it's lively and thanks to the turbo and its intercooler, piles on the torque at low revs for sparkling acceleration. It is always relaxed and even near the top end of the tacho, you know it's breathing hard but it isn't suffering.This is a better deal than the V8. Firstly, you'd save on fuel and on the $9000 price difference. And you won't be a lot worse off in performance. Certainly the in-line six cylinder is smooth and quiet — more so than the V8 — so the ride experience meets the car's price tag.No need to slow too much for the corners, either, as the all-paw grip is prodigious in the dry and safely hangs on in wet conditions. Arguably, it'll beat its rivals hands down through the bends in the wet and probably in the dry as well. Yes, surprise, surprise, it's that good.It's not as if you feel a lot of the action inside the cabin for the bodyroll is minimal. All this is quite unexpected. Especially as the cabin is so delicately trimmed and decorated to be more like the corner of a loungeroom. I have indicated the simplicity of the interior but it's also the use of colours and materials that makes it so appealing.Some German rivals like black-on-black with dark wood as cabin decor but Volvo prefers pale pastels with satin-varnished and light-coloured timber trim and a bit of brushed metal as an accent. There is no central button to access the features, rather simple and well signposted switchgear.The car is accessed and started by a keyless system. The parkbrake is an electronic button and the audio is a simple one-touch button arrangement. There is significant sound deadening so underway if there is virtually no engine and wind noise which means you can turn down the radio volume.The seats are upholstered in soft leather and while I'd wish for more side support, are easy to get in and out. They also have heaters to produce possibly your only early morning winter smile.It really is a surprisingly good car that has the round pole into round hole simplicity we've come to expect from the land of the meatball.Just be sure to read the instructions.SnapshotPrice: $79,950Engine: 3-litre, inline 6-cyl, turbo, intercoolerPower: 210kW @ 5600rpmTorque: 400Nm @ 1500-4800rpmPerformance: 0-100km/h: 6.9 secondsEconomy (official): 12.0 litres/100km, tested): 12.2 litres/100kmEmissions: 286g/km (Corolla: 175g/km)Transmission: 6-speed automatic, sequential; all-wheel driveRating: 88/100Rivals: Audi A6 2.8Q ($92,000) — 87/100; BMW 523i ($86,530) — 85/100; Honda Legend ($79,990) — 81/100; Jaguar 3.0 Luxury AWD ($79,150) — 79/100

Can you wear a cardigan and drive a V8? Volvo thinks you can, as it has slotted a bent-eight beneath the snout of the flagship S80 sedan.The Swedish car maker has also given the sedan an all-wheel-drive system to put the outputs to ground - thankfully, given much of the range has to steer and drive through the front wheels.The transverse 4.4-litre V8 offers 232kW and 440Nm, increases of 32kW and 60Nm over the old S80 T6 model - numbers not likely to be threaded through the front hoops without plenty of torque steer, despite any potential electronic knobbling.Volvo says the Yamaha-developed bent-eight also offers 370Nm from 2000rpm and that flexibility is felt during open-road cruising. The new flagship has grown 28mm in length and width, 54mm in height, 6mm in front track and 25mm in rear track, as well as an extra 45mm in the wheelbase. The company is also claiming a better power-to-weight ratio than the old model, which has helped the 0-100km/h sprint drop by 0.8 of second to 6.5 seconds.There's ample traction from the Haldex computer-controlled all-wheel-drive system, which helps the six-speed auto get the big Swede under way in a hurry.The grip levels are never in question but the sedan can feel a little nose-heavy in tighter corners, something which could perhaps benefit from a rear-drive bias in the all-wheel-drive system, something Audi has done to some of its range.There's not much to worry about in terms of the engine (apart from a typical V8 thirst that's a little heavier than the outgoing model) but the adaptive-suspension - which has coil-over struts at the front and a multi-link axle rear - is cause for concern.Three suspension settings allow the driver to alter the car's driving behaviour - Volvo says the Comfort setting offers sedate, comfortable driving, with ride quality a priority.While the Sport and Advanced settings work reasonably well, the Comfort setting leaves a lot to be desired.The S80 in Comfort mode doesn't deal well with low-grade bumps - even misaligned manhole covers are cause for concern - and bigger undulations are dealt with in a distinctly U.S. sort of way, which equals a lumbering, roly-poly manner with just average damper control.There's better news with the intermediate Sport setting and Advanced mode for serious cornering. Sport gives better damping control and is preferred for general driving, despite increased stiffness.Body roll is well controlled in either mode and the S80 tracks well, with only major mid-corner bumps unsettling the car from its intended line.The new car is leaner in pricing, wearing a $95,950 price tag, down from $98,950, and the equipment list hasn't suffered.There are rain-sensing wipers, an A-Grade DynAudio sound system with surround sound, dual-zone climate control and a trip computer.The headlights are adaptive xenon units but there's no automatic function for them, something I would have expected on a $90,000-plus machine. The integrated GSM phone is also disappointing, given the expansion in Bluetooth availability.Safety features are plentiful - as you'd expect from this brand - with front, side and curtain airbags and stability control among the features combining to deliver a strong safety package.The cabin has been trimmed with quality materials and has a solid, quiet and soothing atmosphere, with the built-in child seat in the centre a clever feature.If you're not a fan of German prestige sedans and are looking for something different, then the big Swede might well be for you - a delicious V8 and a comfortable interior tops the list, but a firm ride will also need to be on your wish list. SnapshotVolvo S80 AWD V8Price: $95,950Engine: 4.4-litre 32-valve DOHC V8.Transmission: Six-speed auto, all-wheel drive.Power: 232kW at 5950rpm.Torque: 440Nm at 3950rpm.Performance: 0-100km/h 6.5 seconds, top speed 250km/h.Fuel consumption: Claimed 11.9 litres/100km, on test 15.4 litres/100km. Tank 70 litres.Emissions: 284g/km.Suspension: Independent, MacPherson struts, coil springs (front). Independent, multiple links, sub-frame mounted, coil springs (rear).Brakes: Four-wheel discs, front ventilated, with anti-lock, electronic brake distribution and electronic brake assistance.Dimensions: Length 4851mm, width 1876mm, height 1490mm, wheelbase 2835mm, track fr/rr 1578/1575mm, cargo volume 422 litres, weight 1742kg.Wheels: 18in alloys. In its classAudi A6 3.2 FSI: $99,800BMW 525i: $94,700Mercedes-Benz E280: $101,300Saab 9-5 Aero: $82,900 

The Volvo flagship is the S80 saloon, a large sedan with plenty of interior space and comfort as well as a good, long boot.It feels solid and while it's no razor-sharp sports sedan it does have poise and balance. On test was the front-wheel-drive S80 with diesel engine priced at $71,950. A 3.2-litre, 175kW six-cylinder and a lusty 232kW, 4.4-litre V8 are the petrol engine versions. They are all-wheel-drive and cost $75,950 and $95,950 respectively.The diesel's five-cylinder transverse engine sits ahead of the front axle line - a recipe for understeer, which can be detected as the load builds up on corners, yet the tyres hang on without complaint.At steady speed, even on the highway, there is no engine noise. This S80 drove up Willunga Hill at 100km/h (1800rpm) with no need to change down a gear in its six-speed sequential automatic.Admittedly, helped by cruises to Goolwa and through the Hills to Murray Bridge, we averaged 6.9 litres/100km.There's much to like about the Volvo S80. Comfortable leather seats the front ones can be heated and with three memory settings.Shock absorbers can be set to comfortable, sport and the even firmer advanced to keep the body flatter for 'advanced' driving.The dual-zone climate control is a beauty, showing the Swedish ability to clear within a minute or two a windscreen iced on the outside.Volvo safety includes a host of airbags, stability control and special head restraints. Rear head restraints fold out of the way at the flick of a switch for better visibility. The parking sonar helps, too.     Small TorqueVolvo S80 D5Price: $71,950,Engine: Inline five-cylinder, turbocharged diesel, dohc.Power: 136kW at 4000rpm.Torque: 400Nm at 2000rpm-2750rpm.Transmission: Six-speed sequential shift automatic, front-wheel-drive.Brakes: Ventilated front discs, solid rear discs. ABS.Fuel: 7.2 litres/100km (claimed). Tank 70 litres.Wheels/tyres: 17in alloy; 225/50 tyres. Space saver spare.Dimensions: 4851mm long, 1861mm wide, 1493mm high; 1587kg. Tows 2000kg.Also consider: Peugeot 307 SV diesel, 150kW, $61,990. Audi A6 quattro diesel, 165kW, $99,900. Mercedes-Benz C220 CDI diesel, 105kW from $70,490. Chrysler 300C CRD diesel, 160kW, $57,990.S80 D5 options: 18in wheels, 245/40 tyres $1500, interior clean zone $250, metallic paint $1350, sat-nav $3950, heated rear seats $495, sunroof $2650, BLIS warning system $1200, active cruise control $2950. 

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.

It has more features, more elegance, sharper steering and even a more powerful hi-fi, but without a change in price.The Volvo S80 is still an expensive mid-sized sedan at $98,950 and you can pay even more if you want some of the options such as the intelligent suspension systems and traction control.The aptly named FOUR-C system refers to Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept that adjusts the suspension at the touch of a button for sport driving or cruising comfort and includes braking controls to stabilise the vehicle and prevent loss of driver control.At $3950, it's not cheap.You can go further and add Dynamic Stability and Traction Control for another $2100 and automatic self-levelling suspension system for $1315 that makes the car sit flat through the twisties, without sacrificing ride comfort.It's a lot of money, but it could be one of the best investments in primary safety you make.Together, these systems virtually adjust for almost any ham-fisted driver input, keeping the car tracking true.However, the aggressive and adventurous would probably only want to switch it off and enjoy the spirited performance from the 3-litre twin-turbo in-line six-cylinder engine.It's sprightly and swift, without any aural pretensions. There is no sudden roar or "look at me" noises from engine or transmission, just a sudden blurring of scenery as it pulls away.Outside, the Volvo now has a cleaner look with a simpler nose design, body-colour bumpers and side mouldings, subtle touches of chrome and a new grille. Inside, the car is classically elegant with highly lacquered walnut wood trim and steering wheel which is a delight to the touch. It also is available in leather.The new three-spoke steering wheel features simple cruise and sound controls that are logical and easy to use.The most notable interior improvement for 2004 is the instrument cluster which is stunning and again simple. Just one large dial and smaller dials either side with a couple of small digital displays.The gloss black dials are rimmed with a fine line of brushed aluminium that really comes alive at night when they are lit, like the stage of a theatre. Not garish, but subtle, with shadings and a glistening sheen.Notwithstanding their elegant beauty, the instruments also are very easy to read.However, the same cannot be said for the helter-skelter array of buttons, knobs and switches in the centre console that controls the sound system, air-conditioning and integrated phone system.Volvo also has boosted the power of the sound system to 75 watts with features including nine speakers and Dolby pro logic surround sound that could only be improved by quieter tyres.Unfortunately, the Pirelli P6000s create too much road noise which fights with the music in the cabin. For $1945, the four-disc CD player can be boosted with a 10-disc CD player in the boot.But boot space already is at a premium. It is long, but also shallow.A sturdy one-piece steel boot lid replaces the two-piece aluminium fixture.Driver and front passenger are well accommodated with ample space, comfortable but highly sprung leather seats that are electronically adjustable, and headrests in just the right position.Rear passengers have adequate room except you cannot squeeze your feet under the seats in front, so your legs can become cramped.While two rear passengers are well catered for with scalloped and contoured seating, a third passenger sits uncomfortably atop a ridge between the other two. And the seat bulges behind them where the centre armrest folds out to reveal a toddler's booster seat.Rear passengers are protected from the sun by a pull-up sun curtain. Similar shades for the side windows are available at $490, or you can go for four laminated side windows at $990.Either or both should be serious considerations for Queensland buyers.Standard features on the S80 include speed-sensitive steering, Bi-Xenon headlights, headlight wipers, push-button retractable side mirrors, integrated phone system with handset, rear parking assist warning system, cabin air filter, heated front seats and more.Noted for secondary safety systems, Volvo also includes a host of airbags in front, side and back, plus a special whiplash protection system.With all this and more, you can start to see where the value lies in the S80.