Volvo S80 - Suffering an Identity Crisis

I must confess that I probably approached the Volvo S80 with outrageously high expectations. Thus it was doomed to fall short of the standards that I had set for it. After all, this was the car that the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) voted “Best New Luxury Sedan”. While an impressive feat in itself, this honor did not weight as heavily on my prejudgement as my past experiences with Volvo products. Volvo builds cars that balance practicality, safety and fun like no other manufacturer in the world. Balance may not even be a fair word to use considering that Volvo does not compromise when it comes to safety.

The flagship S80 replaces the tired “9 Series” to compliment last years makeover of the “8 Series”, now known as the S70 (sedan) and V70 (wagon). While the S80 is a very competent car, I was left somewhat unsatisfied after a few days behind the wheel. This car seems to let go of what I would call the “Volvo identity”. Styling is a departure from the uniquely wonderful square look that Volvo has so successfully updated in the “70 Series” vehicles. To my disappointment I could see some styling influences of other manufacturers. This is not to say that the S80 is not a good looking car. It is just that it is not a unique looking car.

Inside, the interior is comfortable, well thought out and attractive but again, the Volvo edge is gone. Interior dimensions are extremely accommodating, making the S80 a very comfortable five passenger car. Trunk space is generous and easily accessible.

Power is delivered in two forms. The base model houses a 2.9 litre 6 cylinder motor that produces a respectable 201 hp. My test car was the sport version T6 with a 2.8 litre twin turbo that puts on tap a very impressive 268 horses. The very isolated interior however never gives the driver a true sense of the motor. Driving through the front wheels and a soft suspension gives the car a level of sophistication that takes some of the fun out of the S80. The car seemed to roll more than I would have expected during hard cornering and understeer can be somewhat pronounced.

Two areas that the S80 excels in are safety and environmental protection. Volvo has gone to great lengths to ensure that emission levels are minimized and recyclable materials are used throughout the car. Volvo’s attention to safety is evident throughout. The car is built to absorb impact from all angles while providing extremely high levels of protection to occupants.

Overall the S80 is a fine car that just seems to have turned its back on the family. As a result the car tends to be more conforming to the status quo. While the S80 is very well equipped, its $50K price tag will pit it against some very stiff competition. The T6 raises the price to $56K where some real attractive options exist for buyers. Personally, my attention in a Volvo showroom will still be directed towards a V70.