Volvo is synonymous with safety and if a consumer is looking for an automobile that is both safe and performs well, then a Volvo is the car for them. This philosophy is ever present in the 2011 Volvo S80. The S80 is ranked 11 out of 16 when it comes to luxury large cars based on more than seventy reviews, test drives and car specifications analysis.
Performance
The 2011 Volvo S80 Comes in two trims, the 3.2L FWD and the 3.0 Liter All Wheel Drive. These engines are automatic turbocharged inline-6. The 3.2 version delivers 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 miles per gallon in the highway whereas the 3.0 AWD delivers 18 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon in the Highway.
Okay, the engine is powerful and the mileage is good but most reviews call the S80 a dull drive. Reviewers are not content with the mediocre performance of the engine, transmission, chassis and suspension and they believe it is not well placed for a midsized luxury sedan, and especially not one with the Volvo name tagged onto its hood. Steering and braking lacks the edge and thrill that most of its competitors offer and certainly not one for a car priced well above $35,000.00.
Exterior
The S80 scored higher in this category. The newly incorporated deep curves and rounded shoulders together with the nostalgic squared off egg crate grill gave the Volvo a very masculine look. However, some deponents contend that the 2011 version looks too much like the older version but more expensive.
Interior
Here is where reviewers believe Volvo got it mostly right. Reviews are divided when it comes to cabin material. Deponents complain that some cabin material seems cheap and/or lackluster which is out of place in a luxury model and brand like Volvo. Proponents believe that the materials are luxurious enough and are soft to the touch as well as pleasing to the eyes, it is just that that the interior is designed to be minimal instead of boisterous like some competitors. However a lot of praise is given to the comfortable and supportive orthopedic seats that are a welcome addition especially on long and bumpy drives. Leg room is superior in both front and back seats. Cargo is where the S80 got it wrong again, the small opening and still smaller space surprised reviewers in a bad way.
Safety
When it comes to safety the Volvo S80 gets everything right. The Insurance Institute for highway Safety scores the S80 with its highest rating for “Good” in front, side, rear, and roof strength. This just goes to show that the superior Volvo safety package is still unrivaled by its competitors. Volvo does not only rely on reputation but backs it up by installing a personal car communicator to allow the driver to know the condition thru its car key. Standard safety features include; whiplash protection, full length head curtain airbags, active head restraints. Additional safety includes a crash prevention system such as cruise control, distance and driver alert, collision warning with auto brake, lane departure warning.
Reliability
In terms of reliability based on a three year reliability trend, meets all the criteria. A standard four year or 60,000 miles warranty and lifetime roadside assistance is also standard to the S80.
Competition
If the consumer is looking for a luxury sedan built like a tank and is less expensive than a BMW, Audi, or a Mercedes Benz then the S80 is the automobile for them. However if the consumer is looking for a curvier and sportier large luxury car then the consumer may want to look at the Infiniti M which is also a “top Safety Pick” now if a consumer would like to save more, then a Buick LaCrosse (MSRP $27,130; 19 city / 30 hwy) may be the better option.
Overall Rating
76 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2011 Volvo S80 is safe and secure, fashion-forward, and just right for affluent families.”Car Connection
“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.”Consumer Guide
“The 2011 Volvo S80 is a sensible alternative to flashier luxury sedans, but its anonymous looks and forgettable driving experience dull the car’s desirability.”Edmunds
“If cutting edge design, a high-output V8 engine and complex electronic systems make up your idea of what a luxury performance sedan should be, the 2011 Volvo S80 isn’t going to win you over.”KBB
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Sedan | Base Price: $37,150.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters) | Miles Per Gallon: 19 city / 27 hwy |
| Length: 191 in. (485 cm) | Width: 73.3 in. (186 cm) |
| Height: 58.8 in. (149 cm) | Wheel Base: 111.6 in. (283 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3761 lbs (1706 kg) | Curb to Curb Turning Radius: 36.7 ft. |
| Luggage Capacity: 14.9 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 24-valve DOHC inline-6 | Displacement: 3.2 liters |
| Horsepower: 240 HP | Max RPM: 6200 RPM |
| Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Geartronic Automatic |
| 0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds | Max Towing Capacity: 3300 lbs (1496.8 kgs) |
| Option:T6 AWD | MSRP: $40,900; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy |
