Strengths

Good value combined with luxury; innovative safety features; attractive design using unique colors and materials; dynamic performance

 

Changes

For 2010, Volvo's flagship S80 sedan receives subtle changes both outside and in. Exterior updates include a new grille with a larger badge and additional chrome details. Enhanced soundproofing has been added to quiet the cabin for passengers, and the interior also features a new steering wheel, a more user-friendly navigation system and extensive use of brushed aluminum brightwork that Volvo calls "silk metal."

 

Value

The 2010 S80 is Volvo's flagship sedan and is an excellent choice for those looking for first-class refinement, a bevy of innovative safety features, luxury galore, solid power options and competitive pricing. The 3.2 gives efficiency-minded buyers a great option. The Yamaha-built V8 delivers smooth power across the rev range and the turbocharged T6 presents buyers with a smart blend of both. Combined mileage for the S80 is estimated at 20 mpg.

 

Overview

Once again, the 2010 Volvo S80 offers three models based around their engines: the 3.2, the T6 and the V8. All S80s utilize Volvo's 6-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, which allows for manual shifting.

The front-wheel-drive 3.2 model is powered by a 3.2L, 235-hp inline-6 engine that makes 236 ft-lb of torque. It offers plenty of creature comforts including footwell entry lights, a tilt and telescopic leather-clad steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, power one-touch windows and locks, power heated mirrors and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The 3.2 also comes with 17-inch alloy wheels standard, rain-sensing windshield wipers, leather upholstery, wood interior trim, 8-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity and an 8-speaker stereo with in-dash CD changer and auxiliary input jack.

The T6 model is all-wheel-drive and is powered by a turbocharged, 281-hp 3.0L inline-6 that slots between the 3.2 and the V8 AWD. In addition to the 3.2's excellent standard features, the T6 adds Volvo's all-wheel drive with Instant Traction, a power parking brake, watch dial instruments, a power sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and dual exhaust tips.

The top-of-the-line V8 AWD features a Yamaha-sourced 4.4L V8 with 311 hp and 325 ft-lb of torque. The V8 AWD features Volvo's Personal Car Communicator, a remote that connects owners with their cars in several ways, such as keyless start and a security system. Additionally, the V8 includes premium leather, an interior air quality system, humidity sensor, classic wood inlays and interior accents, 18-inch wheels, headlight washers, active bi-xenon headlights, front and rear park assist, satellite radio, massaging ventilated front seats, heated seats front and rear, analog clock and an interior air quality system.

Available options include Climate Packages featuring heated seats and windshield washers and a Dynamic Package for the T6 with special 18-inch alloy wheels, dynamic chassis technology and active bi-xenon headlights. The Executive Package for the 3.2 and T6 adds unique 18-inch alloy wheels, wood cabin accents, massaging ventilated front seats, upgraded leather and an analog clock. A Multimedia Package brings navigation and a premium Dynaudio stereo, while the Technology Package, required with the Climate Package, includes adaptive cruise control, Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), distance alert and a lane departure warning.

All 2010 Volvo S80s come standard with anti-lock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, anti-whiplash front head restraints and seatbelt pre-tensioners in all five positions. In crash testing conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Volvo S80 earned the top rating of "Good" for both frontal-offset and side collision protection.