Car Test
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R0242 | |
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May 2002 |
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| Volvo S80 | ||
| Printer Friendly Page | Featured model: D5 SE Automatic | |
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There comes a time when dated hand-me-downs just aren’t good enough. Volvo felt that way about the Audi diesel engine that powered its S80 and decided to run up an up-to-the-minute, all-alloy turbocharged derv-burner of its own.
It made a lovely job of it, too. This is a light, all-alloy, five-cylinder unit using common-rail fuelling and a high-tech turbine. The result is smooth, spirited performance that’s only marginally blunted by the splendid five-speed automatic transmission (£1100 extra) with which our car was equipped. With shifts that are barely perceptible, this is the next best thing to CVT, even though it lacks the sophistication of Volvo’s Geartronic system. On start-up, you’re vaguely aware that the D5 isn’t petrol powered, but otherwise you’re hard put to know it. It’s particularly impressive when motorway cruising in the long-striding top gear. It’s reasonably frugal, too, but remember that the manual version is a whopping 20 per cent more economical. Show the S80 a stretch of broken tarmac road and its firm, fidgety suspension is disappointing. The car rides with well-composed authority on main roads and motorways, however. Although it doesn’t exactly handle with the enthusiasm of the S60, it feels stable and grippy in the turns, with steering that’s fluid and nicely weighted – if a bit short on informative feedback. The brakes are excellent and it’s good to note that, with the advent of (optional) brake-assist, they are now less head-noddingly sudden in ordinary check braking. Twin cushion height and lumbar adjustments ensure that most drivers sit comfortably at the tilt-and-telescope steering wheel, but the fixed head restraints and wide pillars gang up to make manoeuvring awkward in tight spaces. Some small warning lights are easily missed, but the well-placed instruments and controls (including wheel-mounted cruise control and hi-fi buttons) are models of clarity. Indeed, the cabin design is clean and functional, and everything feels solid and carefully crafted. And smell that leather! There are several option packs to chose from, or you can select individual items of equipment to tailor your S80 just the way you want it. Volvo’s exemplary inventory of safety and security features comes as standard, though, naturally. Back seat passengers are spoilt for spaciousness in all directions and the 60/40-split fold seat is as comfortable and supportive as it looks. Climate control is standard and its features include centre door pillar vents and floor level outlets for those in the back. The boot is huge. |
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