2007 Volvo S80: Road Test

Archived Review

2007 Volvo S80 

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  • MSRP: $38,705 -$47,350
  • Invoice: $36,418 -$44,544

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Our road test for the 2007 Volvo S80 includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Volvo S80 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Volvo S80, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Volvo S80 help you decide if a 2007 Volvo S80 is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

3.2 V8 Class Average
6 7 7.2

Smooth 6-cylinder provides adequate power, but lacks punch compared to V6-powered class rivals and even cars costing thousands less. V8 is smoother, delivers willing power appropriate for the class. With either engine, the transmission shifts seamlessly.

FUEL ECONOMY

3.2 V8 Class Average
5 4 3.9

Test 3.2 averaged 19.9 mpg. Test V8s averaged 17.8 mpg, 20.1 with more highway use. Volvo recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.

RIDE QUALITY

3.2 V8 Class Average
7 7 8.4

Base suspension is comfortable, composed. Four-C adjustable suspension provides generally compliant ride, but Comfort setting allows too much float over humps, while Sport and Advanced settings can trigger jiggle over bumps and washboard surfaces.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

3.2 V8 Class Average
6 6 6.8

S80 never feels sporty, but handles with controlled competence. Four-C suspension's Sport and Advanced settings reduce body lean in turns. Sport Package's steering-force-level choices range from light to moderately heavy, but the steering never feels sports-car firm. Nice, tight turning radius. AWD adds a measure of security in slippery conditions but isn't available with 3.2 models. Worry-free braking aided by optional adaptive cruise control, which readies brakes and sounds an alarm if the system detects a possible collision.

QUIETNESS

3.2 V8 Class Average
7 7 8.5

Cabin is subdued, but not as quiet as many luxury-class competitors. Six-cyl engine growls under acceleration. V8 has a bit sportier exhaust note, but sounds more refined overall. Little wind noise. Noticeable tire thrum on some coarse surfaces.

CONTROLS

3.2 V8 Class Average
6 6 7.4

Easy-to-read gauges. While the control layout is simple, the abundance of buttons can seem complicated. Some are set low, requiring a quick look away from the road. Navigation screen pops up from dash; system includes hand-held remote control. Available Blind Spot Information System can be useful, but it occasionally gave false readings.

DETAILS

3.2 V8 Class Average
7 7 8.5

Cabin has quality feel with rich wood or aluminum trim.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

3.2 V8 Class Average
8 8 8.9

Comfortable, supportive seats with enough settings to make most backsides happy. Manually adjustable tilt/telescoping steering wheel and lumbar support are appreciated, but they are usually power operated in this class. Thick roof pillars obscure view to front corners but not to rear.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

3.2 V8 Class Average
5 5 8

Decent room, but toe space is cramped below front seats and leg room diminishes with front seats far aft. Seatback may be too firm and angled steeply back for some tastes. Easy entry/exit.

CARGO ROOM

3.2 V8 Class Average
5 5 5.1

Low liftover, nonintrusive hinges, and standard split folding rear seats are pluses. Trunk's small opening won't permit loading of large boxes.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

3.2 V8 Class Average
5 6 5.7

Volvo's redesigned S80 is stylish and comfortable, but it can't match the brand cache and the sportiness or pure luxury of the best in this class. Six-cylinder versions trail rivals for power and aren't offered with all-wheel drive. V8 versions are more in line with luxury buyers' expectations, and their prices undercut V8-powered competitors.

Total Score

3.2 V8 Class Average
67 68 78.4

Total Score: 68

Scores for all Premium Large Cars

Low Score
61
Average Score
78
High Score
87

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