The 2012 Subaru Forester is a top ranked affordable small SUV/wagon, offered in standard AWD and at a low base price.

This SUV offers many standard features; sporty, car-like ride, spacious cabin, and a respectable cargo hold, enabling it to compete against it many rivals. The Forester has been a popular choice even for families who are active outdoors.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $20,595.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gallons (64l)	MPG: 21 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 179.5 in. (455.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 103 in. (261.6 cm)
Height: 65.9 in. (167.3 cm)	Width: 70.1 in. (178 cm)
Curb Weight: 3250 lbs (1474 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.7 in. (22 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 33.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder DOHC Subaru Boxer®	Displacement: 2.5 Liter
Horsepower: 170 HP	Max RPM: 5800 RPM
Torque: 174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Max Towing Capacity: 2400 lbs (1088 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2.5X PZEV M/T	MSRP: $20,895; MPG: 21 city / 27 hwy
Option:2.5X Premium A/T	MSRP: $23,295; MPG: 21 city / 27 hwy
Option:2.5X Premium PZEV	MSRP: $23,595; MPG: 21 city / 27 hwy
Option:2.5X Limited	MSRP: $26,595; MPG: 21 city / 27 hwy
Option:2.5X Limited PZEV	MSRP: $26,895; MPG: 21 city / 27 hwy
Option:2.5XT Premium	MSRP: $27,095; MPG: 19 city / 24 hwy
Option:2.5X Touring	MSRP: $27,895; MPG: 21 city / 27 hwy
Option:2.5X Touring PZEV	MSRP: $28,195; MPG: 21 city / 27 hwy
Option:2.5XT Touring	MSRP: $29,895; MPG: 19 city / 24 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 Forester is offered in 6 trim levels which include: 2.5X, 2.5X Limited, 2.5X Premium, 2.5X Touring, 2.5XT Premium and 2.5XT Touring. Just like other Subaru’s, all 2012 Forester trims are available in standard AWD. 2.5X trims are fitted with a 2.5L flat 4-cylinder engine, that produces 170 hp and 174 lbs-ft of torque. XT models on the other hand, get a turbocharged engine that generates 224 horsepower and 226 lbs-ft of torque.

The 2.5X and the 2.5X premium models come with a standard 5-speed transmission, although can opt for the 4-speed automatic transmission. The 2.5XT Premium, the 2.5XT touring, the 2.5X Touring, and the 2.5X Limited, are available in just the 4-speed automatic transmission.

All in all, the 2.5X models net a fuel economy estimate of 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on a highway with either the automatic or manual transmission. The 2.5XT trims have a fuel economy estimate rated at 19/24 mpg city/highway. The XTs are capable of moving from standstill to 60 mph in remarkable 6.8 seconds, while the X trims does the same in 10.1 seconds.

The 2012 Forester receives praise because of the sporty handling, thanks to the AWD system that performs very well in slippery, snow conditions and even off-road.

Exterior

The exterior is attractive with a ground clearance of 8.9 inches, for better performance especially in off-road scenarios. Standard features for the 2.5X models include: 16-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, and keyless entry and roof rails.

The 2.5X Premium and 2.5XT Premium are upgraded with extra features that include: 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails and a panoramic sunroof. On the other hand, 2.5X Limited models add fog lights, windshield de-icer and heated mirrors are features found on the Premium trims. The 2.5X Touring and 2.5XT Touring are equipped with Premiums features, but adds bi-xenon headlights.

Interior

The Subaru Forester is spacious and has a pleasantly styled cabin fitted with many standard features. To start, it offers a seating capacity for five in two rows, with the rear seat getting a lot of praise because of all that extra room. Other notable standard features are: sliding armrest, tilt steering wheel, and stereo system. The base model is fitted with several standard features like: air conditioning, auxiliary input jack, rear window wiper and a single-disc CD player.

The 2.5X Premium is upgraded with a premium stereo system, Bluetooth and a navigation system. The 2.5X Touring comes with rearview camera and dual-zone climate control in addition to features found in the 2.5X Premium. The 2012 Forester offers a cargo space of 33.5 cubic feet, which can be increased to 68.3 cubic feet after folding the rear seats.

Safety & Reliability

Safety is important to Subaru. It begins with the standard rollover sensor that deploys the side curtain airbags to prevent the occupants from ejection and also for added protection. Other standard safety features include: driver and front passenger airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, child safety locks, side head airbags, traction control, electronic stability control, daytime running lights and brake assist.

The 2012 Forester is backed with a 3-year or 36,000 mile limited warranty as well as 5-year or 60,000 mile engine warranty.

Pros

• Sporty handling
• Standard AWD
• Spacious rear seat
• Affordable base price

Cons

• Mediocre interior quality
• Outdated 4-speed automatic transmission

The 2012 Subaru Forester is an affordable SUV that most people will go for, due to its ability to perform on-road and off-road, offer comfortable rides, its ability to maneuver tight turning circles easily and its crisp steering.

Competition

The Forester has many rivals, as mentioned earlier, these include the Mazda CX7 (MSRP $22,190; 20 city / 27 hwy), the Honda CR-V (MSRP $22.695; 23 city / 31 hwy), and the Ford Escape(MSRP $22,470; 22 city / 31 hwy).

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Subaru Forester is tough, all-weather-capable, and one of the best-handling compact crossovers–plus, a blast to drive in XT turbo form–but an old-tech automatic transmission and econo-caliber interior remain letdowns.”Car Connection

“Forester has a car-like demeanor. Steering is direct with sporty heft. Lean in corners is kept well in check, though some testers complain of a slightly top-heavy feel.”Consumer Guide

“With perhaps the most comfortable ride of any small SUV, the Forester handles well in everyday driving. The spacious cabin has straightforward controls and a great view out.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Off-roading in the Subaru Forester showcased the vehicle’s firmer suspension, direct steering and notable ground clearance, all of which came into play when traversing rocks and ditches.”KBB

“Thanks to plenty of interior room and available turbocharged power, the 2012 Subaru Forester is a top pick in the highly competitive small-crossover-SUV segment.”Edmunds

The 2012 Volvo XC60 is pitched as a family car that will double as an SUV.

It falls in under the luxury compact class of SUV, and overall has many positive features to make it a viable choice.

The XC60 comes with all the features Volvo has been known for, safety, fuel efficiency, and a luxurious design

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $34,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70L)	MPG: 19 city / 25 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 182.2 in. (462.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.2 in. (274.8 cm)
Height: 67.4 in. (171.2 cm)	Width: 74.4 in. (188.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 4012 lbs (1819 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.1 in. (23.1 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 30.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24 Valve Inline-6 DOHC	Displacement: 3.2 Liter
Horsepower: 240 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 3300 lbs (1497 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:T6 AWD	MSRP: $40,450; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:R Design AWD	MSRP: $44,650; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy

Performance

The XC60 comes with a choice of engines, all of which deliver adequate power and performance. For drivers who want that extra response from the accelerator, the turbocharged engine is just the ticket.

The base power plant is a 3.2-liter V6 engine that can deliver 240 horsepower. The T6 and T6 R-design versions of the car are supplied with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine that generates 300 horsepower in the T6 model and 325 horsepower in the T6 R-design.

Although the car is an SUV, the drive feels far from sporty. There is noticeable understeer and an equally obvious body roll tendency. Furthermore, the car does not shield the occupants very well from bumpy surfaces, with larger bumps being particularly uncomfortable. On normal surfaces where the car is not being pushed to its limits around corners, the drive is very comfortable.

Fuel consumption is average for a car of its size and weight. The 3.2-liter with front wheel drive gets 19 mpg in city and 25 mpg in highway driving. There is a slight increase on the all wheel drive version, the figures being 18 mpg/24 mpg, city/hwy respectively, while the turbocharged models get 17 mpg and 23 mpg.

Exterior

The Volvo XC60 manages to convey a sleek yet solid exterior appearance. The curved and sloped front, with its chrome surrounded radiator grille, blends seamlessly into the sides of the car. From the rear, the car looks solid and spacious.

Interior

Volvo has being trying to improve the internal appearance of its vehicles, and the XC60 clearly demonstrates how far the company has come, especially in the R-design model, which is extremely stylish and attractive with its black and ivory color scheme. The quality is clearly top-class, and great thought has gone into designing the beautifully curved and smooth dashboard. Genuine wood trim is an option.

The car seats five in all, but, being in the compact class, may be a little uncomfortable for taller rear seat passengers on longer journeys.

Standard equipment supplied with the XC60 includes Bluetooth connectivity, satellite and HD radio, climate control and audio controls mounted on the steering wheel. Two different navigation systems can be purchased as options.

Safety

Being launched primarily as a family car, safety is one of the highest priorities. The XC60 is shipped with the Volvo City Safety feature. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reckons that this feature can result in the prevention of one quarter of crashes that occur at lower speeds. The National Highway Traffic Safety Institute has also praised the feature.

The feature uses a detection system to monitor the road ahead. If it senses an obstruction and the car’s speed is less than 20mph, it will automatically apply emergency braking.

Reliability

Volvo has a reputation for building solid, reliable cars and there is no reason to expect that the Volvo XC60 will be any different. This is backed up by the company’s warranty scheme, which is better than that of most other manufacturers.

Pros & Cons

The XC60 is perfect for owners who rate safety as a priority in a family car. The car also scores highly for its stylish interior. The most negative aspect of the car is its uncomfortable performance on bumpy surfaces.

SUVs abound over the last 20 years, the XC60 joins the BMW X1 (MSRP $30,650; 24 city / 34 hwy), the Jeep Grand Cherokee (MSRP $27,495; 17 city / 23 hwy), and the Subaru Tribeca (MSRP $32,595; 16 city / 21 hwy) in this segment.

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“Excellent safety scores; ample interior space; comfortable ride; strong turbocharged engine; distinctive design inside and out; available integrated booster seats…Some unintuitive interior controls; pokey acceleration with base engine.”Edmunds

“The 2012 Volvo XC60 is an attractive, well-designed family luxury vehicle, with a class-leading roster of innovative safety and tech features.”Car Connection

“Some body lean is apparent in fast cornering, but it hustles around curves with car-like assurance. XC60 has an option that allows drivers to adjust steering feedback over three settings via the on-board computer. Most should find the normal setting fine for everyday use…”Consumer Guide

“The ride is a little stiff, but handling is responsive and secure at its limits.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Not surprisingly, the 2012 Volvo XC60 offers distinct driving impressions depending on what’s under the hood. The base, 240-horsepower 6-cylinder engine has enough oomph to get the Volvo SUV up to speed adequately, clocking a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds.”KBB

The 2012 Subaru Impreza is an affordable small car available in either hatchback or sedan body styles, meant to perform in any weather condition.

The Impreza has been redesigned completely, with notable highlights being its fuel efficient powertrain, spacious and higher quality interior and updated styling. The Impreza will outperform rivals since they are not offered in AWD.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchback	Base Price: $17,495.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (55l)	MPG: 25 city / 34 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180.3 in. (457.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.1 in. (264.4 cm)
Height: 57.7 in. (146.5 cm)	Width: 68.5 in. (174 cm)
Curb Weight: 2910 lbs (1320 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 12.0 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder DOHC SUBARU Boxer®	Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 148 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 145 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed M/T
0-60 mph: 8.5 seconds	1/4 Mile: 16.4 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2.0i	MSRP: $17,795; MPG: 27 city / 36 hwy
Option:2.0i Premium	MSRP: $18,795; MPG: 27 city / 36 hwy
Option:2.0i Premium PZEV	MSRP: $19,095; MPG: 27 city / 36 hwy
Option:2.0i Limited	MSRP: $21,595; MPG: 27 city / 36 hwy
Option:2.0i Limited PZEV	MSRP: $21,895; MPG: 27 city / 36 hwy
Option:WRX 2.5L M/T	MSRP: $25,595; MPG: 19 city / 25 hwy
Option:WRX Premium	MSRP: $28,095; MPG: 19 city / 25 hwy
Option:WRX Limited	MSRP: $29,095; MPG: 19 city / 25 hwy
Option:WRX STI	MSRP: $34,095; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:WRX STI Limited	MSRP: $37,445; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 Impreza comes standard with an AWD system, powered by a 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine that produces 148 hp and 145 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is connected to a standard 5-speed manual gearbox.

The 2012 model is also available in the optional Continuously Variable Automatic transmission, to deliver better performance combined with better fuel efficiency. The fuel economy of an Impreza with the optional CVT is rated at 27/36 mpg city/highway, while the base manual transmission offers a fuel economy estimate rated at 25/34 city/highway.

An Impreza equipped with a CVT can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 9.6 seconds. The Limited, Sport and Premium levels come with a manual mode and steering-column-mounted shift paddles that choose among 6 arbitrary gear ratios. The 2012 Impreza also offers a weighty, solid and confident handling.

Exterior

The Subaru Impreza is available in 5 trim levels which include: base, Premium, Sport Premium, Limited and Sport Limited. Customers will be impressed by the 2012 Impreza’s exterior styling which is more mature than the outgoing generation. The new Impreza adopts a new style with a hexagonal grille, while its wheelbase has also been increased by an inch more than the 2011’s.

A new front fascia combined with redesigned headlamps is also added to complement the stylish exterior further. Moreover, the outlined chrome accents, fog lamps and roof rails provide more styling utility and flair, while still giving the Impreza a more prominent and stronger look.

Interior

The 2012 Impreza also comes with a redesigned cabin that offers more cargo space and comfortable seats. All seats offer plenty of leg and head room even for tall adults. The driver gets enough and comfortable driving space, thanks to the tilt and telescoping steering wheel.

Premium trims are fitted with features that include: USB port, upgraded stereo, Bluetooth and an auxiliary jack. Other notable interior features include: a touch screen infotainment system and climate controls. The sedans come with a cargo hold of 12 cubic feet, while the hatchback models come with 22.5 cubic ft behind the rear seats, which can be increased to 52.4 cubic ft after folding the rear seats.

Safety & Reliability

The Subaru Impreza is fitted with remarkable safety features that guarantee the safety of the occupants. It is equipped with 7 airbags that include: driver and front passenger airbags, front-seat-mounted side impact airbags, side curtain airbags and driver’s knee airbag.

Other key safety features include: Emergency trunk release, daytime running lights, child safety locks, electronic stability control, 4-wheel Disc brakes, traction control, 4-wheel ABS and Brake assist.

Subaru backs the 2012 Impreza with 3-year or 36,000 miles limited warranty, while rust damages are covered in a 5-year warranty regardless of mileage. To add to that, the engine gets a 5-year or 60,000 miles warranty.

Pros

• Good fuel economy
• Standard AWD
• Spacious seats and good cargo space
• Remarkable handling

Cons

• Cheap interior materials
• Less powerful than the competition
• Substandard sound system

In general, the 2012 Subaru Impreza is a good option for people shopping for affordable small cars offering more safety, comfortable seating and rides, well designed exterior and interior. And with the AWD system in place, you can rely on this car to take you to any place you want.

Competition

This car faces competition from rivals like the Toyota Corolla (MSRP $16,230; 27 city / 34 hwy), the Chevrolet Cruze (MSRP $17,130; 25 city / 36 hwy) and the Honda Civic (MSRP $15,955; 28 city / 36 hwy).

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“Crisply restyled, with higher gas mileage, more space inside, a nicer interior, and all-wheel drive standard, the 2012 Subaru Impreza is a newly compelling compact alternative.”Car Connection

“Impreza handles well with well-checked body lean in corners and nicely weighted steering. Grip is excellent even on wet roads. The overall driving experience is very confidence inspiring, if not overtly sporting. Braking control is fine with an easy-to-modulate pedal.”Consumer Guide

“The Impreza’s more aggressive new design draws focus to the Impreza’s AWD heritage with powerful arches, while a longer wheelbase and redesigned door and roof trim and front seats yields gains in passenger and cargo room. Interior upgrades include roomier cabins, higher-quality, soft-touch interior materials and the latest infotainment and connectivity technology, including Bluetooth, audio streaming, iPod capability and six speakers; a new navigation system is available for Premium trims.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Like comfortable sneakers, the 2012 Subaru Impreza offers surefooted all-wheel-drive traction under all road and weather conditions. ”KBB

“The redesigned 2012 Subaru Impreza 2.0i is a more appealing and competitive small car. The carryover Impreza WRX and STI still offer plenty of performance, but are saddled with many of the faults of the previous-generation car.”Edmunds

German Tuning Specialist Alpha-N has launched the 2012 Alpha-N BMW 1M RS, or the 1M RS, an updated version of the BMW 1M.

The 1M RS is lighter and faster compared to the stock version.

It is designed according Alpha-N’s vision of improving the weight on cars, which is critical in racing.

Engine

Alpha-N updated the 3.0 liter 6-cylinder engine through an exhaust system that is specially developed, a new air duct software optimization. As a result, the powertrain can now deliver 410 horsepower which is 70 more than the stock engine.

Performance

In order to complement the powerful engine, Alpha-N installed a high-performance braking system. It includes braided stainless steel lines, 380mm discs and 6 piston calipers. As a result, you get a fast car without compromising safety.

Most of the exterior is made of carbon fiber and thus add to the car’s lightness making it nimbler than the stock model. To make the car even lighter, Alpha-N used OZ Superforgiata rims that measure 8.5″x19″ and 10.0″x19″ in the front and the rear respectively. The additional horsepower provides cutting speed on straightaways, while the lightness brings speed on curves.

Exterior

Focus of the improvements made by Alpha-N is not on the looks, so the 1M RS looks almost the same as the 1M. What is interesting about the 1M RS include its ventilated hood, low spoilers, front fascia, carbon roof, rear fascia diffuser, and luggage lid spoiler that are all made of carbon fiber.

Interior

Alpha-N has not release interior details for the 1M RS. If you want the team to update your BMW 1M, your interior may remain untouched. It is safe to assume that the original interior from the factory version remains.

Pros

If you are after performance, the 1M RS will certainly deliver what you are looking for. The updates are competitive enough to make the BMW 1M worthy during the race. The carbon fiber parts make it extremely light which brings speed virtually anywhere on the track.

Cons

Tuner modifications come with a price. Although Alpha-N is yet to release their pricing, we can guess that the improvements are not going to be cheap.

The improvements that Alpha-N made will benefit car enthusiasts. If you are into this sport, the 2012 Alpha-N BMW 1M RS is a great choice.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons (63L)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 181.8 in. (461.7 cm)	Wheelbase: 108.7 in. (276 cm)
Height: 55.6 in. (141.2 cm)	Width: 77.8 in. (197.6 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 11.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4

Performance

Engine: Inline 6	Displacement: 3.0 liters
Horsepower: 410 HP	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

The 2012 Volvo S80 is a large luxury sedan that gets a lot of praise because of its high-tech safety features, low price and comfortable interior.

All S80 trims are equipped with Volvo’s City safety technology as well as other high-tech features such as Bluetooth audio streaming, genuine wood interior trim, and a 7-inch monitor color display. All of this to go with its sophisticated look giving you a unique driving experience.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $38,950.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70L)	MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191 in. (485.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 111.6 in. (283.4 cm)
Height: 58.8 in. (149.3 cm)	Width: 73.3 in. (186.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 3761 lbs (1706 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 14.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24 Valve Inline-6 DOHC	Displacement: 3.2 Liter
Horsepower: 240 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 3300 lbs (1497 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:T6 AWD

MSRP: $42,950; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 S80 3.2 model comes with a standard 3.2L inline-6 engine that generates 240 hp and 236 lbs-ft of torque to the front wheels. This engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox, giving you 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.

The T6 trim comes standard with AWD and is powered by a 3.0L inline-6 powertrain that makes 300 horsepower and 325 lbs-ft of torque. This engine also mates to a standard 6-speed automatic, getting 18/26 mpg city/highway.

Exterior

The 2012 S80 is available in two trim levels: 3.2 and T6. The S80, better known as Scandinavian luxury, comes with a sleeker, curvier appearance and a bit of a sportier profile. The 3.2 base trim comes with standard features like: 17-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, rear and front fog lights, and auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The T6 adds extra features like a sunroof and 18-inch alloy wheels, which are optional for the 3.2 trim. The available Premier Plus package adds keyless entry, and front and rear parking sensors to the S80’s exterior. Optional features for the T6 model include: sport-tuned chassis, 18-inch alloy wheels, and adaptive bi-xenon headlights.

All trims are eligible for optional features that consist of: rain-sensing windshield wipers, heated windshield-washer nozzles, and headlight washers

Interior

The S80 comes with center console that sit on a thin metal panel, originally found on the S40 sedan. The S80’s front seats receive praise for its comfort and supportive nature. These seats are adjustable, offering enough leg and headroom for all body types.

The rear seats are spacious and comfortable. The S80 is equipped with a unique set of switches and buttons to control interior climate. In addition, the cabin is fitted with an electronics interface mounting audio controls and optional navigation functions. The dashboard has also been revamped, and now features a standard 7-inch color display and Volvo’s Sensus system. The S80 offers a cargo space of 14.9 cubic feet.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 S80 is equipped with standard safety features. Some of these include: front-seat side airbags that feature separate chambers for hip and thorax protection, side curtain airbags, active front head restraints, driver and front passenger airbags, antilock disc brakes, blind spot monitor, lane departure warning, collision and pedestrian warning system with auto brake, driver fatigue monitor, emergency trunk release, child safety locks, integrated turn signal mirrors, electronic stability control, traction control and 4-wheel ABS.

Pros

• Well equipped
• Comfortable ride and seats
• High-tech safety features
• Stylish and functional interior layout

Cons

• Unexciting handling
• Weak performance from base engine

The 2012 Volvo S80 boasts the latest high-tech luxury and safety features for its class. All the same, it is a good option for people shopping for luxury large cars for their midsize families, as well as those who are into safe and comfortable rides.

Competition comes from others like the Cadillac CTS (MSRP $39,095; 18 city / 27 hwy), the Lexus IS 350 (MSRP $40,320; 19 city / 27 hwy), and the Mercedes Benz C Class (MSRP $35,350; 22 city / 31 hwy) sedans.

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“Besides a thorough revamping of its available trim levels, the 2012 Volvo S80 now sports turn signals on the outside mirrors, a new 7-inch color display in the center of the dash, genuine wood interior trim and Bluetooth audio streaming. Volvo’s City Safety technology is also now standard across the model lineup.” Edmunds

“With plenty of comfort, style, and safety, the 2012 Volvo S80 hits all the right marks for an image-conscious, affluent family–but lacks the sportier driving personality of the somewhat smaller S60.”Car Connection

“S80 never feels sporty, but handles with controlled competence. 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.”Consumer Guide

“The S80 doesn’t deliver the level of performance or luxury expected in this class.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Volvo S80 may not have the cachet of a Lexus GS, Audi A6 or BMW 5 Series, but it merits attention among premium brands nonetheless.”KBB