Eight is enough
Combined with a six-speed manumatic transmission--even when being aggressive with the throttle--the V8 is smooth, smooth, smooth. Gears shifts are quick; near CVT-like, but without the CVT whine.
The recent week I had the S80 V8, there was enough snow on the roads to experience the Haldex all-wheel drive system. Unlike the Torsen-based quattro system in Audi's A6 that delivers power 50:50 full-time, the S80 V8's directs power to the front wheels first, then to the rear when needed. Like the engine/tranny combo, it worked seemingly.
This Swede likes to steer
Perhaps the biggest driving improvement over the old S80 is in the steering department.
The new speed-sensitive power steering provides plenty of feel, allowing the driver to be extremely accurate in placing the new S80 V8 in corners. It's not as telepathic as a rear-drive BMW 5 Series, but more inline to what one experiences with an AWD Audi A6.
If not as equally improved as the steering, the S80 V8's ride and handling benefits from a three-setting Four-C Active Chassis that's part of a $3,250 Luxury Package.
First and foremost, as a luxury sedan, the S80 V8 isn't a canyon carver.
When pressed hard, it will roll more than a 5 Series or an Infiniti M45. But where it does shine is in delivering a well-controlled ride, even with the suspension set to Comfort. And unlike the Volvo R cars, the firmest setting--Advanced--won't rattle your teeth.
As expected, Volvo also believes in the luxury of safety. My test car's $3,150 Security package added among other items, adaptive cruise control and a blind spot warning system.
Combined with a six-speed manumatic transmission--even when being aggressive with the throttle--the V8 is smooth, smooth, smooth. Gears shifts are quick; near CVT-like, but without the CVT whine.
The recent week I had the S80 V8, there was enough snow on the roads to experience the Haldex all-wheel drive system. Unlike the Torsen-based quattro system in Audi's A6 that delivers power 50:50 full-time, the S80 V8's directs power to the front wheels first, then to the rear when needed. Like the engine/tranny combo, it worked seemingly.
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| The V8 engine is coupled to a 6-speed manumatic transmission. |
This Swede likes to steer
Perhaps the biggest driving improvement over the old S80 is in the steering department.
The new speed-sensitive power steering provides plenty of feel, allowing the driver to be extremely accurate in placing the new S80 V8 in corners. It's not as telepathic as a rear-drive BMW 5 Series, but more inline to what one experiences with an AWD Audi A6.
If not as equally improved as the steering, the S80 V8's ride and handling benefits from a three-setting Four-C Active Chassis that's part of a $3,250 Luxury Package.
First and foremost, as a luxury sedan, the S80 V8 isn't a canyon carver.
When pressed hard, it will roll more than a 5 Series or an Infiniti M45. But where it does shine is in delivering a well-controlled ride, even with the suspension set to Comfort. And unlike the Volvo R cars, the firmest setting--Advanced--won't rattle your teeth.
As expected, Volvo also believes in the luxury of safety. My test car's $3,150 Security package added among other items, adaptive cruise control and a blind spot warning system.
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| The S80 offers good road manners. |