2005 Volvo S80: Road Test
Archived Review
2005 Volvo S80 ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $36,365 -$49,150
- Invoice: $34,220 -$46,236
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Volvo S80
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2005 Volvo S80 includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Volvo S80 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Volvo S80, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Volvo S80 help you decide if a 2005 Volvo S80 is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
2.5T provides good acceleration with little turbo lag, though test AWD version suffered nonlinear throttle action. More-potent T6 is smooth, almost free of turbo lag, and quick: 7 sec 0-60 mph in our test. Both transmissions impressively smooth, prompt-shifting.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.1 |
Fine for the class. Test 2.5T AWD averaged 20.0 mpg in mostly highway driving. Test T6s averaged 19.7-20.7 mpg. Note: Fel tank is 18 gal on 2.5T, 21.1 gal on T6. Volvo recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 7 | 8.2 |
Comfortably absorbent on 2.5T models with 16-inch tires, though a bit too floaty over fast humps. Conventional 17s give 2.5T AWD and 2.5T harsher reactions to bumps, but less float. No opportunity to test with run-flat tires. Firmer T6 is more stable at speed,but can jiggle on broken surfaces. Four-C's Comfort mode softer than standard T6 base suspension and allows some float, but firms with speed; tauter Sport mode quells float, is never harsh.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Even with base suspension, S80s are sure-footed, fairly agile for their size. Good steering feel, response. 2.5T AWD adds measure of security in slippery conditions. T6 benefits slightly from Four-C's Sport setting. Short, undramatic simulated panic stops, but some testers complain of poor pedal modulation.
QUIETNESS
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 8.5 |
Little engine or wind noise. Tire thrum evident on coarse pavement.
CONTROLS
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 6 | 6.2 |
Classy gauges. Rational controls, with two exceptions: Some audio functions are not intuitive, and navigation system uses odd pop-up screen that's hard to read in sunlight and is controlled by tricky buttons on back of steering wheel. Real wood complements already sophisticated cabin materials, solid workmanship.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.7 |
Wide, plush seats. Plenty of leg space. Good 6-footer head clearance even with sunroof. Take-charge driving stance is very adjustable. Front headrests impede visibility astern, though rears can be folded down via dashboard button--a handy feature.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 9 | 8.3 |
Generous leg room. Good head room and under-seat foot space. No-strain entry/exit. Still, two adults are happier than three on long trips. Premier's luxury trimmings are opulent.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 |
Trunk aperture isn't that large, though lid opens more than 90 degrees, and floor is long, wide, and flat. Split rear seatbacks drop fully without removing headrests.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 5.7 |
The base 2.5T model feels larger and more substantial than many like-priced upscale sedans, though amenities such as leather upholstery and sunroof are optional here and standard on most rivals. The 2.5T AWD adds the security of AWD, but is hard to recommend over AWD competitors or even Volvo's own AWD S60. The T6 is the best all-around luxury value in the S80 line, while the Premier pampers rear-seaters for less than other makers charge for similar features.
Total Score
| 2.5T | T6 w/Four-C, nav. sys. | T6 Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 61 | 63 | 68.2 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Premium Large Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
