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2000 Volvo S80 Full Review
Date Published: 4/23/08
Also in the 2000 Volvo S80 Review:
2000 Volvo S80 Review
A new option package with sun-blocking curtains for the rear window and rear side windows is added to Volvo's flagship for 2000.
The base S80 has a 197-horsepower 2.9-liter inline 6-cylinder engine. The T6 model has a 268-hp 2.8-liter twin-turbo version of the I6. Both engines team only with a 4-speed automatic transmission, with the T6 sporting a "Geartronic" feature that allows manual gear changes by pushing the shift lever fore or aft in a secondary slot.
Both S80s have standard antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, 3-point shoulder belts with pretensioners at all five seating positions, and front side airbags. The S80 also sports Volvo's Inflatable Curtain, air bags that drop down from above the front and rear side windows in a side impact, and Volvo's WHIPS protection system, which moves the front seatbacks and headrests rearward to minimize whiplash in a rear-end collision. Called the Warm Weather package, the new option includes the rear curtains and a windshield with an infrared treatment designed to reflect the sun's heat.
The base S80 has a 197-horsepower 2.9-liter inline 6-cylinder engine. The T6 model has a 268-hp 2.8-liter twin-turbo version of the I6. Both engines team only with a 4-speed automatic transmission, with the T6 sporting a "Geartronic" feature that allows manual gear changes by pushing the shift lever fore or aft in a secondary slot.
Both S80s have standard antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, 3-point shoulder belts with pretensioners at all five seating positions, and front side airbags. The S80 also sports Volvo's Inflatable Curtain, air bags that drop down from above the front and rear side windows in a side impact, and Volvo's WHIPS protection system, which moves the front seatbacks and headrests rearward to minimize whiplash in a rear-end collision. Called the Warm Weather package, the new option includes the rear curtains and a windshield with an infrared treatment designed to reflect the sun's heat.
Competition
This diverse segment offers the widest price range. It covers everything from the $33,000 Saab 9-5 to the $128,000 Mercedes-Benz SL500. Obviously our Best Buys are somewhere in between. We think that the Acura RL is a steal at $42,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. In the same vein, the more-expensive Lexus LS 400 continues to impress, excelling in every way except for handling.
If you are looking for something a bit more sporting we recommend the BMW 5-Series, Jaguar S-Type, or Lexus GS 300/400. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the new Cadillac DeVille or Mercedes-Benz CLK.
If you are looking for something a bit more sporting we recommend the BMW 5-Series, Jaguar S-Type, or Lexus GS 300/400. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the new Cadillac DeVille or Mercedes-Benz CLK.
News
Industry snoops can't seem to ferret out any near-term news about Volvo's flagship sedan, which is ending only its second model year anyway, but we expect minimal change for 2001. Saleswise, the S80 had a spectacular debut in calendar 1999, oupolling the predecessor 90-Series by almost 6 to 1, though year-to-year sales were flat in early 2000.
With wagons accounting for the lion's share of Volvo's business, rumors persist that the S80 will sire a wagon, which would be badged V90 in the company's latest nomenclature. Still, we're inclined to discount such talk. The 2001 V70 was developed as an "S80 wagon" until Volvo realized it might end up too expensive for the intended market, and we doubt anything much has changed since that would cause Volvo to reconsider.
Much more likely is the "crossover" vehicle being whispered for calendar 2002. This will reportedly be more of an SUV in style and character than the latest all-wheel-drive V70 XC, though the two models would undoubtedly share many under-skin components. The real question is whether the crossover would be substantially larger and/or more powerful than the XC, and nobody outside Volvo can answer that right now. However, the S80 platform apparently allows quite a bit of size variation, so the crossover could be bulked up from the sedan much like the V70 was slimmed down. We'll just have to wait and see.
With wagons accounting for the lion's share of Volvo's business, rumors persist that the S80 will sire a wagon, which would be badged V90 in the company's latest nomenclature. Still, we're inclined to discount such talk. The 2001 V70 was developed as an "S80 wagon" until Volvo realized it might end up too expensive for the intended market, and we doubt anything much has changed since that would cause Volvo to reconsider.
Much more likely is the "crossover" vehicle being whispered for calendar 2002. This will reportedly be more of an SUV in style and character than the latest all-wheel-drive V70 XC, though the two models would undoubtedly share many under-skin components. The real question is whether the crossover would be substantially larger and/or more powerful than the XC, and nobody outside Volvo can answer that right now. However, the S80 platform apparently allows quite a bit of size variation, so the crossover could be bulked up from the sedan much like the V70 was slimmed down. We'll just have to wait and see.
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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
The base model is comfortable, but lacks high-speed stability. The sporty T6 is more stable at speed, although slightly stiffer-riding in town.
| 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
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.
| 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
Engine and wind noise are low, so tire thrum seems prominent on coarse pavement, though both S80s are quiet overall.
| 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
Intuitive, well-marked controls and clear gauges.
| 2.9 | T6 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 6 | 3 | 5.5 |
Intuitive, well-marked controls and clear gauges.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Spacious, with ample head clearance for 6-footers even with the optional sunroof.
| 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)
Fine head room. Generous leg room and foot space under the front seats, but an adult will feel squeezed in the middle position.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
| 2.9 | T6 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 59 | 58 | 59.9 |
Scores for all Premium Large Cars
| Low Score | 50 | |
| Average Score | 59 | |
| High Score | 72 |
2000 Volvo S80 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 07/29/1999
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| 2.9 4-door sedan | $36,000 | $33,060 | $575 |
|
|
|||
| T6 4-door sedan | $40,500 | $37,105 | $575 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
2.9
Powertrain
2.9-liter dohc 6-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side-airbags, front and rear side head protection, front seat active head restraints, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Dual-zone automatic air conditioning, power steering, tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, 8-way power front bucket seats w/driver seat memory, center console, split folding rear seat, cupholders, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, steering-wheel-mounted radio and climate controls, tachometer, trip computer, intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, cargo net, floormats, theft-deterrent system.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
215/55R16 tires, alloy wheels.
T6 adds to 2.9:
Powertrain
2.8-liter dohc turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Variable-assist power steering, heated front seats, heated headlight wipers/washers, premium speakers, wood interior trim, automatic day/night rearview mirror.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, 225/55R16 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Special Value Pkg.
|
||
|
2.9
|
$2,400
|
$1,920
|
|
Power sunroof, leather upholstery.
|
||
|
Warm Weather Pkg.
|
||
|
2.9, T6
|
$700
|
$560
|
|
Infrared reflective windshield, rear and side curtains.
|
||
|
Cold Weather Package
|
||
|
2.9
|
$450
|
$360
|
|
Heated front seats, heated headlight wipers/washers.
|
||
|
Ultra Security System
|
||
|
2.9, T6
|
$635
|
$508
|
|
Movement sensors, incline sensor, laminated security side glass, universal garage door opener.
|
||
|
|
||
Powertrain |
||
|
Dynamic Stability Traction Control
|
||
|
2.9, T6
|
$1,100
|
$880
|
|
Includes antiskid system.
|
||
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Navigation System
|
||
|
2.9, T6
|
$2,500
|
$2,140
|
|
Power sunroof
|
||
|
2.9, T6
|
$1,200
|
$960
|
|
4-disc CD changer
|
||
|
2.9, T6
|
$1,000
|
$800
|
|
Deletes cassette player.
|
||
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Special alloy wheels
|
||
|
2.9
|
$500
|
$400
|
|
T6
|
$400
|
$320
|
|
Includes variable-assist power steering (2.9), 225/50R17 tires.
|
||
|
|
||
2000 Volvo S80 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Volvo S80 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 109.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 189.8 |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.1 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3602 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 14.2 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 21.1 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.2 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.9 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I6 | Turbocharged dohc I6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.9 /178 | 2.8 /170 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 197 @ 6000 | 268 @ 5400 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 207 @ 4200 | 280 @ 2100 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 4-speed automatic | 18/26 | 17/25 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Volvo S80 4-door sedan |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/unlimited | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Sweden
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Also in the 2000 Volvo S80 Review:
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