Devon test drives a Volvo S80 (Used)

You’ll be surprised that there are buyers who don’t want an Audi A6, BMW 5-series and Mercedes E-class. For those buyers the Volvo S80, even though it will eventually get replaced by the S90, still is a good option for anyone that wants Scandinavian Luxury at an even more discounted price.

The sole engine option for the S80 is a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder pumping out 240hp. It’s one of the smoothest turbocharged four-cylinders we have ever tested and it feels just enough for the S80. The engine never feels short on puff around town and on the highway. You can only have the S80 with front-wheel-drive and with this engine that’s enough. Anything more than that to the front wheels is just down right insane.

The Volvo S80 isn’t even close to be as sharp to drive as a BMW 5-series, but most buyers of the S80 aren’t picking it because of that. They want a smooth and comfortable ride and that’s what they are going to get here. Steering feedback is numb at best and the overall handling is more like ‘safe’ if anything. It doesn’t encourage you to push it hard through corners and bends because well let’s face the facts here. This platform is nearly twelve years old. But not everyone wants a rock hard suspension, and for those you either choose the Mercedes E-class or this.

There really isn’t much wind or road noise to complain of. The turbo engine sounds rather course under heavy acceleration but it is far from a deal breaker. There is no manual gearbox option, but most buyers in this segment don’t really care for one either.

Volvo has always been a paradigm of clarity when it comes to their dashboard layouts; all the controls are within easy reach of the driver’s hand. The seats are all day comfy and offer plenty of support. Rear passengers will find comfort as well. Plus the S80 is one of the few sedans in this segment to have split folding rear seats standard and a boot that’s generous on space.  

All S80s come standard with keyless entry, Bluetooth connectivity, leather seats and rain sensing windshield wipers. You’ll have to step up to the Platinum trim to get Xenon headlamps with auto high beam control, collision warning with full auto brake and adaptive cruise control with lane departure warning. We think that it’s best to just spring the extra money for this package because it has many of the modern safety technology and yet still manages to be cheaper than all three German Rivals.

The S80 maybe on its way out the door but that doesn’t mean you can’t pick up one with a deep discount. This maybe one of the few reasons people will still flock to dealers to buy one. However, in our opinion this is the most understated Volvo ever, and for those few individuals that do buy one this is a real gem.

Wait for the S90 if you desire all-wheel-drive or more powerful engine option.

Likes: Most understated Volvo ever. Turbocharged engine offers good flexibility and decent running costs. Comfortable front seats and ride comfort.

Dislikes: Starting to show its age.

Devon’s choice: Platinum package is the only way to go with the S80. It may costs more but it is worth it.

A bite of the forbidden fruit.

Volkswagen Bluemotion
What is it? An ultra fuel efficient line of vehicles. With emissions ratings lower than a hybrid. With improved aerodynamics to lower drag coefficiency and other fuel efficient technologies used in sports cars to improve fuel economy.
Why is it illegal? U.S. has strict emissions standards on diesel engines. This makes it harder for European Automakers to design diesel engines for the U.S.



Fiat Panda 4X4

What is it? Based upon a small car called the Panda that's sold everywhere but the U.S.

Why it should be sold here? It's a cheap alternate to a Jeep. With better gas mileage. The small size with short overhangs means its great off-road. This car can climb a 35-degree incline. With a few extra horsepower, it can tackle a Land Rover off-road.



Audi A1
What is it? Audi's Mini Cooper fighter.

Why should it be sold here? It's a Mini Cooper with a splash of style inside out. The interior is upscale Audi and the price is very low. It's perfect for congested urban areas.



BMW 1-series
What is it? A hatchback version of the 1 Series coupe.

Why should it be sold here? Other than the affordable base price, the 1-series hatch is rear wheel drive. Making it drive just as good as the other BMWs but with more praticality. A perfect rival to the Volkwagen GTI and Subaru Impreza.



Mercedes A-class
What is it? A hatchback that's as small as a Honda Fit. But has more versatility than a small MPV.

Why should it be sold here? The A-class should've been sold here under the Smart brand. Sold as the Forfour, Smart would've done way better with this hatchback than the Fortwo.



Alfa Romeo MiTo
What is it? Alfa Romeo's smallest hatchback.

Why should it be sold here? Alfa Romeo has some of the most stylish Italian cars sold. This Mini Cooper fighter will prove to be popular with buyers that are considering the Mini Cooper. Its tasteful and dashed with performance.



Citroen C1
What is it? A car shared with the Toyota Aygo and Peugeot 107.

Why should it be sold here? It's designed to be cheap. All this cost cutting features are unnoticed by the consumer. Its still fun to drive and offers more equipment than a Kia Rio. Plus its stylish a easy to park in the city. High mileage cars should be welcomed in the U.S.

Devon test drives a Volvo S80 sedan (Used)

The Volvo S80 may appeal to Volvo Fans, but the real challenge is can the S80 lure the Audi, BMW and Mercedes buyers away from their German Sedans?

The S80 offers two engines to pick from. The 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 240hp while the 3-liter turbocharged six-cylinder produces 300hp. Picking between the two is a mere matter of taste. Our money goes to the turbocharged six-cylinder. It's not that much more than the four-cylinder plus it offers standard all-wheel-drive which still manages to undercut all its German Rivals.

On the road the S80 offers secure handling. It isn't really as sharp to drive as a BMW 5-series but most won't ever push it to its limits. At least the cabin is classy and refined with very little wind and road noise. The ride however can be a bit firm over some bumps and poor road surfaces. It's far from being a deal breaker. Sadly steering is numb and lacks feedback that its German rivals have.

Volvo's floating dashboard has made its way into the S80 and it's classy. The infotainment system is simple and easy to use, all the controls are within reach of the drive'rs hand. The seats offer superb comfort with plenty of adjustments for all drivers of all sizes to get comfortable. There's plenty of space for five passengers with decent leg and headroom. The boot offers decent space too. Standard features include rain sensing windshield wipers, auto lights, power adjustable fronts seats and climate control. You'll have to step up to the T6 to get all-wheel-drive, navigation system and Xenon headlamps.

The S80 is much cheaper to buy than its German Rivals. Plus running costs are much lower too. However you'll be a little worried about resale value which isn't as strong as its German Rivals. Volvo is known for safety and you shouldn't have to worry too much with the S80. Stability control, anti-lock brakes and traction control are standard as well as curtian airbags. Anti-whiplash head restraints and anti-submarining seats are also standard. Security is just as good too with plenty of anti-theft aids to keep theft at away.

The S80 sedan is a classy offering that really does deserve a second look. It may not be as sharp to drive as a 5-series or hold its value as well. It's still cheaper to buy, offers more kit and is much more satisfying to own. We can't find any reason not to consider the S80.

Likes: Both engines are smooth and flexible. The standard kit list is pretty good for such a low asking price. It feels safe and secure on the road.

Dislikes: It's rather bland compared to German Rivals. Plus it doesn't hold its value well either.

Devon's Pick: T6 comes with all-wheel-drive and a smooth turbocharged six-cylinder. We have nothing agaisnt the four-cylinder which is just as smooth. But to get a 5-series with this type of horsepower and all-wheel-drive system you'll pay double the price. Plus the amount of kit really does pay for itself. What more can you ask for?