7 February 2011
The all-new Volvo S80 is firmly targeted to the top end of the market and is set to challenge the prestigious premium car segment on both price and quality. In all dimensions apart from length, the S80 is bigger than the previous model providing a more impressive stance and greater road presence.
A key point of difference for the S80 is a V8 engine, which in itself is nothing new, and for this end of the market almost a must have, however one developed by the Yamaha Motor Corporation and mounted transversely into the body shell is very unique.
Advantages of a transverse layout are improved passenger compartment space, and useful space for deformation in the engine compartment in the event of a collision.
Yamaha have used all their experience in small engine production to produce the all aluminium compact 4.4 litre engine, which has a narrow 60-degree angle to allow the transverse fit. The Ford Motor Company (Volvo's parent company) have worked with Yamaha since 1986, firstly to develop a V6 and then in 1996, a 3.4 litre V8 power unit.
Volvo S80 engineNow highly modified and with increased capacity, the variable valve and variable air intake engine, has been specifically designed for transverse use and used solely by Volvo. The naturally aspirated engine meets Euro 4 emission standards and delivers 232kW of power and 440Nm of torque with as much as 370Nm being available from 2000rpm. Claimed fuel consumption is 11.9 litres per 100kms. A beautifully smooth six-speed adaptive and geartronic automatic gearbox, which can be used manually, completes the power unit package.
The S80 is also equipped with the latest all-wheel-drive system. An electronically controlled hydraulic clutch constantly balances the power bias between the front and rear wheels to ensure optimal road holding in various conditions. When starting off on a slippery or loose surface, a favourable bias to the rear wheels is provided to achieve instant traction.
An upgraded active chassis is used based on Volvo's Four-C technology system. A number of sensors are used to constantly monitor the car's behaviour and to adjust the dampers in a mere fraction of a second. While the driver has a choice of chassis settings; Comfort, Sport and Advanced, the system will automatically override the selected option to provide the maximum stability to assist the driver.
Accident avoidance systems are added to further enhance the brands reputation for safety. Active Bi-Xenon swivelling headlights allow a total sweep of 30 degrees while headlight angle is automatically adjusted depending on vehicle load, or if it is accelerating or braking. Adaptive cruise control allows the vehicle to maintain a safe distance to the vehicle in front while a Collision Warning with Brake Support system that assists the driver to avoid rear-end collisions or minimise the impact. A Blind Spot Information System is offered as an accessory.
The interior protection system has been developed further with a new generation of side impact airbags and whiplash protection. ISOFIX child restraints are included and the middle rear seat can be fitted with an integrated booster seat for older children.
The interior of the S80 is simple but has a class of luxury about it supported by a superb 12 speaker audio system with steering wheel controls. The driver has a wide range of possibilities for tailoring the car's comfort features to personal needs and tastes by way of a car information system. The menu covers features such as the seats, rear-view mirrors, climate unit and audio system. Even the amount of power steering assistance can be altered via the information system. To avoid driver distraction, certain menu functions are blocked approx 20 seconds after adjustment.
In comparison to its V8 engine competitors the S80 has to be worth a look. Priced at $109,990 it represents great value for money without compromise.