Acceleration

2.5T	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	Class Average
6	6	6	6.9

Good acceleration with little turbo lag, though test AWD version suffered nonlinear throttle action. Transmission impressively smooth, prompt-shifting.

Fuel Economy

2.5T	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	Class Average
5	5	5	4.2

Fine for the class. Test 2.5T AWD averaged 20.0 mpg in mostly highway driving. Volvo recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.

Ride Quality

2.5T	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	Class Average
7	8	7	8.5

Comfortably absorbent, 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. Four-C's Comfort mode softer than base suspension and allows some float, but firms with speed; tauter Sport mode quells float, is never harsh.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2.5T	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	Class Average
7	7	7	6.9

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. Short, undramatic simulated panic stops, but some testers complain of poor pedal modulation.

Quietness

2.5T	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	Class Average
7	7	7	8.5

Volvo's 5-cyl isn't objectionably noisy, but is louder than most rival V6s. Little wind noise. Tire thrum evident on coarse pavement.

Controls

2.5T	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	Class Average
6	4	6	5.9

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 other sophisticated cabin materials, solid workmanship.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2.5T	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	Class Average
8	8	8	9

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	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	Class Average
7	7	7	8.1

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.

Cargo Room

2.5T	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	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	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	Class Average
3	3	4	5.4

S80 feels larger and more substantial than many like-priced upscale sedans, but the lack of a 6- or 8-cyl engine in this class is a major drawback. The 2.5T AWD adds the security of all-wheel drive, but is hard to recommend over AWD competitors or even Volvo's own lower-cost AWD S60.

Total Score

2.5T	2.5T w/Four-C, nav. sys.	AWD 2.5T	Class Average
60	59	61	68.4

Scores for all Premium Large Cars

Low Score		59
Average Score		68
High Score		79