The idea of a luxury Volvo would have been a little surprising
at one time. However, over the last decade or so the Swedish brand has
gradually risen through the ranks and is now officially a premium
marque. As such, the flagship S80 saloon is an important model despite
the relatively small numbers that will be sold in the UK.
The previous generation S80 still possessed vestiges of 'old' Volvo's
values; robustness, value and honesty. But it was never a glamorous car
in the way that a BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class or Audi A6 could be.
The latest S80 is a concerted effort to put that straight by creating a
machine that supposedly epitomises 'Scandinavian luxury'. It's pretty
convincing package.
Far more elegant than its predecessor,
Volvo's new design language is somewhat similar to Lexus's. That's no
bad thing, as both the S80 and Lexus's GS use classy understatement to
make their point. The S80 hides its considerable size effectively
thanks to crisp, flowing lines, smooth surfaces and orthodox
positioning of main elements such as lights, grille and glazing. There
is very little ornament or unnecessary ostentation, in keeping with
Scandinavian design principles. As a result, the S80 should age
exceptionally gracefully.
Inside, the S80 is very much as one
would imagine a luxury Volvo should be. It's well constructed,
comprehensively thought out and even luxurious, albeit in an almost
apologetic Scandinavian way. Despite the claims Volvo makes for
interior innovation, in fact it's fairly conservative. Some interesting
combinations of wood, plastic, chrome and leather are available, so
care needs to be taken when selecting the exact trim to match your
personal taste.
Diesel-engined models are likely to
prove most popular in the UK. Fun the range-topping V8 may be, but its
poor fuel economy and high emissions are hardly in keeping with Volvo's
green image.......
