Follow-up test: 2010 Volvo S80 T6
Vehicle: 2010 Volvo S80 T6 AWD with Tech Package
Price as tested: CDN$65710
When the 2nd generation S80 launched back in 2007, we were criticized for its choice of the powertrains. While the base 3.2 liter I-6 is a better buy, it doesn’t have the performance needed in such a heavy car. The 4.4 liter V8 is just too rough and coarse, without the real performance one demands of a high-powered V8 luxury car. Then Volvo came out with a 3.0 liter in-line 6-cylinder turbo with 281 hp and 295 lb/ft of torque. While that won’t make the S80 beats class-leaders like the A6 and E-Class, it surely would make this flagship Volvo got the performance and refinement that it has always needed it.
For 2010, Volvo has given S80 a mid-cycle facelift. Exterior wise, its hard to find the difference between the original car. Its the interior that has given some nicer materials. Those seats are as ones expect from Volvo, simply superb. Although you won’t find the hard seats as in German rivals, those softer Swedish seats will always leave you cool and fresh after a long journey.
When it comes to ride and handling, the revision has given S80 some improvement. The ride quality is softer and more cushioned, on the other hand, the driving experience is more sure-footness. Although you won’t attack the corners as in the same manners as in the A6 3.0T Quattro, this S80 T6 AWD certainly lives up to the billing as a comfortable highway cruiser.
If you have got tired of all those German luxury sedans, S80 T6 is worth a look in the marketplace for a nice competent ride. It has all the active and passive safety features one expects from a Volvo. Plus it looks much better than the BMW 5-Series by a long shot.
Likes:
Comfortable interior
Ride comfort
Torquery T6 powertrain
Dislikes:
Competent but boring driving experience
Trunk access
Lack the cachet of its German rivals