Acceleration

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
6	7	7	7.3

The 3.2's smooth 6-cylinder provides adequate power but lacks punch compared to V6-powered class rivals and even cars costing thousands less. T6 and V8 versions are a bit docile from a start but deliver willing power appropriate for the class. With either engine, the transmission shifts seamlessly. No opportunity to test an S80 Executive.

Fuel Economy

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
5	4	4	3.9

In Consumer Guide testing, an S80 3.2 averaged 19.9 mpg. A T6 averaged 17.3 mpg, and a V8 averaged 17.8. S80 uses regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
7	7	6	8

The base suspension is comfortable and composed. Some of our testers say the T6 feels unsettled. The comfort setting of the available Four-C suspension allows too much float over humps, while Sport and Advanced settings can trigger jiggle over bumps and washboard surfaces.

Steering/Handling/Braking

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
6	7	7	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 on 3.2 models. Braking is worry-free, but one test model suffered from a slightly mushy pedal. Sensors in the available adaptive cruise control can ready maximum braking force if a collision is imminent.

Quietness

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
7	7	7	7.9

S80's cabin is subdued, but not as quiet as many luxury-class competitors. Both 6-cylinder engines growl under acceleration. V8s have a bit sportier exhaust note, but they sound more refined overall. Little wind noise with noticeable tire thrum on some coarse surfaces.

Controls

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
8	8	8	6.4

The gauges are easy to read. While the abundance of buttons can seem complicated, the controls are actually very easy to use. Some are set low, requiring a quick look away from the road. The navigation screen pops up from the dash, and it includes a hand-held remote control. The available Blind Spot Information System can be useful, but it occasionally gave false readings in one test car.

Details

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
7	7	7	8

Most materials aren't especially rich for a premium car. The wood trim is particularly dull. Still, the cabin is decently appointed overall.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
8	8	8	8.7

Comfortable, supportive seats have enough settings to make most backsides happy. Ample headroom and vast legroom are appreciated by all drivers. Manually adjustable tilt and 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 the rear.

Room/Comfort (rear)

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
6	6	6	6.7

Decent room, but foot space is cramped below the front seats and legroom diminishes with the front seats far aft. The seatback may be too firm and angled steeply back for some tastes. Easy entry and exit.

Cargo Room

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
4	4	4	4

Low liftover, nonintrusive hinges, and standard split-folding rear seats are pluses. The trunk's small opening won't permit loading of large boxes. Interior storage is disappointing. The glovebox and center console are on the small side.

Value within Class

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
5	5	4	6.2

S80 is stylish and comfortable, but it can't match the brand cachet and the sportiness or pure luxury of the best in this class. The 3.2 model trails rivals for power and isn't offered with all-wheel drive. T6 and V8 versions are more in line with luxury buyers' expectations, and judiciously equipped, can undercut V8-powered competitors on price.

Total Score

3.2 w/navigation	T6	V8 w/Sport Pkg	Class Average
69	70	68	73.9

Scores for all Premium Large Cars

Low Score		68
Average Score		73
High Score		87