Acceleration

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	T6 Elite	Class Average
5	7	7	6.5

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.	T6 Elite	Class Average
5	5	5	4.1

Fine for the class. One test 2.9 averaged 19.2 mpg with lots of highway miles; another logged 26.0 on a long, fast trip. Test T6s returned 19.7-20.7 mpg. Volvo recommends premium fuel for all.

Ride Quality

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	T6 Elite	Class Average
8	7	7	8.2

The 2.9 is an easy rider, but a bit too soft over fast humps. Firmer-damped T6 is more stable at speed but stiffly sprung and jiggly in town.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	T6 Elite	Class Average
6	7	7	6.6

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 simulated emergency stops are short and undramatic.

Quietness

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	T6 Elite	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.	T6 Elite	Class Average
7	5	7	5.7

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 pop-up screen that's hard to read.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	T6 Elite	Class Average
8	8	8	8.1

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 to the rear.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	T6 Elite	Class Average
7	7	9	7.6

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. Elite's luxury trimmings--built-in TV, refrigerated compartment--border on opulent.

Cargo Room

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	T6 Elite	Class Average
4	4	4	4.8

Trunk opening isn't that large, though lid opens more than 90 degrees, and floor is long, wide, and flat. The 2.9 and T6 have split rear seatbacks that drop fully without removing headrests.

Value within Class

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	T6 Elite	Class Average
3	4	3	5.3

S80s are roomy, well-built, and competitively priced. The navigation system is a hassle to use, and the 2.9 model lacks acceleration and handling befitting a luxury sedan. The faster T6 is pricier, but actually a better value. The Elite pampers rear-seaters like a Lexus LS 430, which, comparably equipped, costs thousands more.

Total Score

2.9	T6 w/nav. sys.	T6 Elite	Class Average
60	61	64	64.7

Scores for all Premium Large Cars

Low Score		51
Average Score		64
High Score		80