Volvo S80

Volvo's S80 might look the similar to the outgoing model but introduces an impressive new list of safety gadgets.

What's New
The new S80 is just that - new from the ground up. It's built on a brand new platform, uses a fresh range of engines and transmissions, and has a completely revamped interior styled in line with what Volvo calls 'Scandinavian Luxury'. Just about the only thing that's been carried over is the name, in other words.

Not that you'd realise this at first glance, for Volvo has clearly taken an evolutionary approach to styling the new S80. The result is a sleek and handsome four-door saloon, but also one that doesn't look radically different from its predecessor. Look a little closer and you'll notice the extra tautness in its lines, the shorter overhangs and the more dynamic stance.

This being a flagship Volvo, you'd expect nothing less than the latest generation safety gear to be on board and the S80 doesn't disappoint. The list of debutantes includes BLIS, or Blind Spot Information System. This uses cameras mounted below the door mirrors to monitor the areas beside the car that the driver may not be able to see. Warning lamps at the base of the windscreen pillars light up when vehicles move into the blind spots.

Another new feature is the radar-controlled Collision Warning with Brake Support, which warns the driver if he's approaching another moving car from behind too quickly by flashing a red light on the windscreen. If he still doesn't react, the system moves the brake pads onto the discs to reduce the stopping distance when he does finally apply the brakes.

Things owners can appreciate on every journey, however, are the light, airy cabin ambience and supremely comfortable seats. The dashboard controls are logically laid-out too, although the plastics used around the interior vary quite widely in terms of perceived quality.

How it Performs
The old S80 unashamedly placed ride comfort ahead of sharp handling on its priority list, and the same is true of the new model. It has a nicely balanced feel that quickly inspires confidence and it can be driven quickly on challenging roads without drama, but it never really encourages you to do so. Still, it's nice to be able to rely on the precise steering and excellent suspension control when you need them.

What makes the strongest impression is the car's superb refinement. Wind and road noise are conspicuous only by their absence, and while the new 238bhp 3.2-litre powerplant sounds a little gritty under hard acceleration, it settles down to a near-inaudible hum at a cruise. This is a car you could spend a whole day driving at high speed, and still feel fresh enough to turn back and make the return trip without taking a break.

The Highway also drove the 4.4-litre V8 model with 315bhp, which delivers effortless performance to match its sporty engine note. However, there's no word on whether this top-of-the-line version will be a part of the new S80 range that goes on sale in Singapore at the end of this year.

How it Stacks Up
For some, the fact that the S80 is not a BMW or Mercedes-Benz would be reason enough to buy it, but it really has so much to offer on its own merits. Stylish inside and out, supremely comfortable and packed with class-leading safety features, the S80 is a Volvo through and through. And it's all the better for it.

Technical Specifications

MODEL Volvo S80 3.2 ENGINE Engine: 3,192cc 24V in-line 6 Max Power: 238bhp at 6,200rpm Max Torque: 320Nm at 3,200rpm TRANSMISSION 6-speed automatic TOP SPEED 240 kmh 0-100km/h 8.0s