2013 Volvo S80 T6 AWD Platinum

As Volvo continues to search for its identity amidst corporate leadership differences, the company’s lineup is in need of a full reboot.  This second generation S80, the company’s flagship, dates back to 2007.  Which is why I wasn’t expecting the level of satisfaction I received from my week with this top-of-the-line, Magic Blue S80 T6 AWD Platinum.  With a starting price of about $48,000 the Platinum adds a killer Premium Sound System with surround sound, 12 speakers and 650 watts that sounds every bit as good as much more expensive setups from B&O.  You also get a navigation system plus a rear park assist camera.  My car continues to lavish with the Inscription package, bringing the full soft leather treatment, leather covered dash, this incredible walnut wood steering wheel and other niceties.  There’s also the Climate Package and this new Metallic Paint choice leading to an as tested price of $51,645.

If you’ve just got to have the latest whiz bang electronics and desire head-turning style, then this S80 isn’t for you.  But what it does provide is an elegant appearance, classically rich interior and a willingness to please from behind the wheel.  This 3.0-liter inline 6 fed by a twin scroll turbo is a great engine, generating 325 pound feet of torque starting at just 2,100 RPM and very linear in its delivery.  It meshes beautifully with the 6-speed Geartronic automatic, making the S80 smooth and powerful…just how you’d want a car like this to be.  Its 0-to-60mph time of 6.3-seconds is even more impressive when you realize this car weighs over 2 tons, about 500 pounds more than a comparable Subaru Legacy.  The new illuminated gear shift also includes a new sport mode that may be the most aggressive I’ve tested…like an instant shot of adrenaline.  But the joy in driving this car is found mostly in its simplicity and refinement.  It’s a complete 180 from where Cadillac is these days.  Easy entry, relaxing ventilated seats that naturally contour to your body and a well-to-do boutique feel with pleasing touch points make up for anything the S80 lacks in newness.  I highly recommend the Inscription package for the full effect.  The ride quality is also signature Volvo, with a thoughtful softness throughout the suspension yet never sloppy in its handling…it’s a trademark characteristic I hope they retain going forward.  Gas mileage on regular, yes 87 octane, is 18mpg city/25mpg highway.

The S80 is a midsize with smaller than average interior proportions so rear seat legroom is just enough for 6 footers to not have their knees touching the front seat.  It’s tighter all-around yet rarely feels undersized.  Volvo’s Sensus system is now easier than ever to use with a scroll wheel on the wheel that allows you to do just about everything the system offers including its driver support systems like City Safety that can help prevent a rear end collision.  A host of new standard features have been added as well, such as rain sensing wipers and Tunnel Detection for the headlights.

The V8 is gone and 7 years is a long time, yet the S80 still represents the premium sedan segment with prestige.