2001 Volvo S80 Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2001 Volvo S80 includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Volvo S80 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Volvo S80, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Volvo S80 help you decide if a 2001 Volvo S80 is right for you.

2001 Volvo S80 Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration (T6)	Radio and navigation system controls

Passenger and cargo room	Rear visibility

Build quality

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

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

Base 2.9 is adequate, but most similarly priced rivals are its equal or faster. More-potent T6 is smooth, almost free of turbo lag, and quick: 7 sec in our 0-60 mph test. Automatic transmission is impressively smooth and prompt.

Fuel Economy

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

Fine for the class. One test 2.9 averaged 19.2 mpg with lots of highway miles; another logged 26 on a long, fast trip. Our T6s returned 19.7-20.7 mpg. Volvo recommends premium fuel for all.

Ride Quality

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Executive	Class Average
8	6	6	7.7

The 2.9 is an easy rider, but a bit too soft over fast humps. Firmer-damped T6 is more stable at speed but slightly stiffer in town, though still comfortable.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Executive	Class Average
5	7	7	6.1

All models are surefooted and fairly agile for their size despite slightly numb, overassisted steering. T6s have more grip and sharper turn-in. Brakes feel overboosted too, but hard stops are short and undramatic.

Quietness

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Executive	Class Average
7	7	7	7.8

Little engine or wind noise, so tire thrum is evident on coarse pavement.

Controls

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Executive	Class Average
6	3	6	5.6

No real problems, but some audio functions aren't intuitive. Optional navigation system looks like an afterthought, with tricky controls on the back of the steering wheel and an odd popup screen that's hard to read.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Executive	Class Average
8	8	8	7.7

Wide, plush seats, plenty of leg space, good 6-footer head clearance even with available sunroof. Take-charge driving stance is very adjustable. Visibility impeded only to the rear.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Executive	Class Average
7	7	9	6.9

S80s have generous leg room, good head room and underseat foot space, no-strain entry/exit. Still, two adults will be happier than three on long trips.

Cargo Room

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Executive	Class Average
4	4	4	4.5

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

Value within Class

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	Executive	Class Average
4	4	3	4.9

S80s are functional, well built, and competitively priced. The T6 has the best combination of performance and value. The Executive runs $5400 more than a T6, but pampers rear-seaters like a Lexus LS 430, which, comparably equipped, costs at least $17,000 more than the top-line S80.

Total Score