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For 2013, the Volvo S80 gets only minor upgrades to its equipment, including rain-sensing wipers and keyless entry and starting. The Premier Plus trim package now includes active dual-xenon headlights, and the Technology Package has Road Sign Information, which detects important approaching signs and displays them on the driver-information monitor.
2012 Volvo S80 models benefit from a new interior panel that houses Volvo's Sensus system, which acts as a command center for audio, navigation and other functions and displays information on a 7-inch color screen. The other big news for 2012 S80 models is that they now come standard with City Safety, an ingenious system that automatically stops the car at lower speeds if it senses the driver is distracted and fails to brake ahead of a potential frontal collision.
A new PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine is offered, touting lower emissions but also 10 less horsepower than the non-PZEV 3.2-liter engine. Subtle visual updates grace the S80's front end and interior, while the V8-powered model gains speed-sensitive steering, a Dynaudio Surround Sound audio system and Dual Xenon Active Bending headlamps.
The exclusive Executive Package is made standard on the V8 and a lesser-contented version is made optional on the T6 AWD. The package includes ventilated front seats with massage, power front passenger seat adjuster accessible from the rear seat and heated front and rear seats. An optional rear refrigerator can also be had, complete with two crystal glasses.
The new, turbocharged, all-wheel-drive T6 model adds a more-affordable performance-oriented alternative to the S80 lineup. All versions get modest interior and exterior trim enhancements, the most notable being the addition of Volvo's Personal Car Communicator security package to the V8 AWD as standard equipment.
Once upon a time, Volvos were relatively uninspiring boxes with a reputation for safety and ruggedness but their only "style" was the very lack of style. Then, less than decade ago, the brand began a life-altering transformation, converting from rear- to front-wheel drive and from boxy to stylish, inside and out. Then came upscale elements of performance, luxury and athletic handling. Today's entire Volvo line, small to large, reflects these qualities, in addition to the marque's continuing signature obsession with safety. Though pricier than comparable domestic and Japanese sedans, Volvos offer lower price tags than those of German competitors.
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why ads?By Father of three (Fort Wayne, IN) on Thursday, March 24, 2011
overall rating 10 of 10rating details
"Bought the vehicles for city driving after it served as a dealer service loaner with 5k miles. It has not disappointed me. My second Volvo, plan on keeping this one until it dies. Now with 41,000 miles, bought tires, done basic service, but no major problems, service, or recalls. I gave Performance "4 stars" for "good", but the 3.2 I bought is perfect for my driving habits. It is not about performance for me. That is why they make a turbo. Drives great in snow, ice, rain, and dry conditions. Love the BLIS (blind spot warning lights) in traffic. The climate package and rubber floor mats are a must for northern climates. Gas mileage has been 17mpg in city, 25 on highway, but 30 if I drive 65mph. Great basic stereo. I rear ended a SUV at idle speed and suffered a minimal surface scratch to the front end. The SUV needed $1,100 in repairs. Negatives: For a family of five, wish it had more interior and trunk room on longer road trips. But that's not why we bought it. I would recommend the '08 S80!"
6 people out of 6 found this review helpful
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By jshdd (NH) on Monday, January 30, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 16,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "Good price, comfortable, powerful, good handling"
Cons: "Strange noises, no oil pressure or water temp ga"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I have 16,000 miles on this S80 and it is extremely comfortable to drive, very quiet and smooth, handles very well and solid feeling. The engine is smooth with plenty of power. Transmission shifts very quickly through the gears and could be a little smoother at times. The most comfortable seats of any car, especially on long trips. 26-27 miles/gal. average highway driving, 18-20 city. The dynaudio sound system is fantastic and the GPS works well and is easy to use. A great car for the money compared to BMW and Mercedes pricing. Great warranty that covers everything for 5yr/60,000 miles, even oil changes and filters. No oil pressure or engine temp. gauge is a negative."
5 people out of 5 found this review helpful
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By Rocketman (MA) on Monday, March 25, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 130,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsLikely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"In my fifty years of driving, the last seven cars I've owned have been Volvos. The S-80 is the best I've owned. It's got 130K miles now, and no major maintenance issues (not even a timing belt). The AWD turbo is excellent."
4 people out of 4 found this review helpful
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