2000 Volvo S80 Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2000 Volvo S80 includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Volvo S80 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Volvo S80, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Volvo S80 help you decide if a 2000 Volvo S80 is right for you.

2000 Volvo S80 Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration (T6)	Radio and navigation system controls

Passenger and cargo room	Rear visibility

Build quality

Exterior finish

Interior materials

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	7	6.4

The base S80 feels adequate, but most similarly priced luxury cars are faster. The turbocharged T6 is smooth, lag-free, and quick, going 0-60 mph in 7 seconds for our test.

Fuel Economy

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	4.3

One base S80 test car averaged 19.2 mpg with lots of highway driving, while another managed 26 mpg on a long fast highway trip. Our test T6s were frugal too, returning 19.7-20.7 mpg.

Ride Quality

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Class Average
8	6	7.5

The base model is comfortable, but lacks high-speed stability. The sporty T6 is more stable at speed, although slightly stiffer-riding in town.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	7	5.9

The S80 has surefooted handling, but the steering feels numb and overassisted in normal driving. T6s have better grip and a sharper feel on turn-in.

Quietness

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	7.7

Engine and wind noise are low, so tire thrum seems prominent on coarse pavement, though both S80s are quiet overall.

Controls

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Class Average
6	3	5.5

Intuitive, well-marked controls and clear gauges.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Class Average
8	8	7.6

Spacious, with ample head clearance for 6-footers even with the optional sunroof.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	6.8

Fine head room. Generous leg room and foot space under the front seats, but an adult will feel squeezed in the middle position.

Cargo Room

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Class Average
4	4	4.4

The trunk opening isn't large, despite a lid that opens more than 90 degrees, but the cargo floor is long, wide, and flat. Split rear seatbacks fold flat without removing the headrests.

Value within Class

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Class Average
4	4	3.8

The S80 packs lots of safety and convenience features into a stylish, functional sedan. Both S80s are competitively priced, but we're underwhelmed with the ride, handling, and performance of the base version, so it's worth paying more for the quick T6.

Total Score