Volvo S80 T4 (A) Review
06 Jul 2011|29,938 views
In a society that's all too fascinated by the latest and greatest, why, in the name of all that is good are we reviewing a car that has been in the market for a good 5 years?
That's right, 5 years. It's an eternity in dog years, and a lifetime for people in that what's-it's-name fruit company in Cupertino that turns out new products even before the last one has a chance to warm the shelves.
So what new big thing does the refreshed S80 have that makes this newsworthy? Well it's a little thing actually; think a bottle and a half of Coke and you won't be too far from the point.
In the era of downsizing, Volvo has thought it wise to slip the force induced 180hp rated 1.6 Liter Ford EcoBoost engine, as well as the Ford Powershft - read dual-clutch - transmission into the mix. The new variant is simply called the T4. It joins the 2.0T, as well as the big daddy of the range, the T6.
That's right, 5 years. It's an eternity in dog years, and a lifetime for people in that what's-it's-name fruit company in Cupertino that turns out new products even before the last one has a chance to warm the shelves.
So what new big thing does the refreshed S80 have that makes this newsworthy? Well it's a little thing actually; think a bottle and a half of Coke and you won't be too far from the point.
In the era of downsizing, Volvo has thought it wise to slip the force induced 180hp rated 1.6 Liter Ford EcoBoost engine, as well as the Ford Powershft - read dual-clutch - transmission into the mix. The new variant is simply called the T4. It joins the 2.0T, as well as the big daddy of the range, the T6.
 |
What's the downside then? Drive both the 2.0T and the T4 in city traffic and unless someone tells you which car you are actually driving, you honestly won't be able to tell the difference.
Take them both out on the open highway and the differences are obvious, the shorter gearing that provides much of the T4's punch down low makes it seem a tad out of breath on long high speed jaunts. It's not that T4 won't handle license breaking trips to Kuala Lumpur; it's just that it won't do it with as much ease and aplomb as its larger brethren would.
 |
So how does the S80 handle? Well, like most other large luxury European sedans would. The ride quality is excellent, passengers are well isolated from the bumps in the road, handling is confident enough - it does not rock like a boat, and sound intrusion is minimal. In short the S80 more than holds its own against the newer kids on the block with very little to differentiate between them.
Thus, we arrive at the million dollar question - or two, to be exact - that desperately need answering. One: is the wee-bitty engine in the 1.6 ton Swede a bridge too far - is it too much car for the motor? Two: should a prospective buyer pony up the extra 10 grand for the Cat B goodness of the 2.0T?
Exterior
Apart from the badge that says T4 and different sized / types of rims on the other variants, you could say that the S80 T4 looks like any other S80 that plies the streets. When the S80 was launched 5 years ago, it didn't set the world on fire with its good looks, and too be honest, the Swedish car maker has never been renowned for that.
Volvos have always tended to err on the side of functional and purposeful designs that are generally conservative. The all new S60 might be the dawn of a new era of sexy Volvos, but the S80 is clearly a mark from the past. That's not saying it's unattractive, but it does appeal to a more mature crowd.
Thus, we arrive at the million dollar question - or two, to be exact - that desperately need answering. One: is the wee-bitty engine in the 1.6 ton Swede a bridge too far - is it too much car for the motor? Two: should a prospective buyer pony up the extra 10 grand for the Cat B goodness of the 2.0T?
Exterior
Apart from the badge that says T4 and different sized / types of rims on the other variants, you could say that the S80 T4 looks like any other S80 that plies the streets. When the S80 was launched 5 years ago, it didn't set the world on fire with its good looks, and too be honest, the Swedish car maker has never been renowned for that.
Volvos have always tended to err on the side of functional and purposeful designs that are generally conservative. The all new S60 might be the dawn of a new era of sexy Volvos, but the S80 is clearly a mark from the past. That's not saying it's unattractive, but it does appeal to a more mature crowd.
A crowd that places priority on safety, passenger comfort, and certain level of rarity when compared to the other more common continental makes. Frankly I'm in my early thirties and I wouldn't mind having the S80 as my daily driver; I would probably have it in black though with a set of aftermarket rims to go just to spruce things up a bit.
Interior
While the exterior maybe borderline bland, the interior is an extremely pleasant place to be in. The design, fit, and finish are typical Volvo fare, meaning high quality soft touch plastics, and a distinct robustness to the interior that is painfully absent from many other cars in this price range.
Adding to the sense of solidity all four doors close with a reassuring thud. The seats are reputably the best in the business, and there does not seem to be any reason to dispute the claims. You could spend hours in them, in supreme comfort, and leave the car still feeling fresh - no aches, sore bums or sore legs for that matter. Passengers in the rear are well provided for, with ample leg space as well as dedicated air-conditioning vents that cocoon them in comfort.
The only downside I found to the interior is that there was no central touch screen system providing access to the navigation, entertainment and vehicle set up. I guess it's the one thing in the interior that shows its age.
Interior
While the exterior maybe borderline bland, the interior is an extremely pleasant place to be in. The design, fit, and finish are typical Volvo fare, meaning high quality soft touch plastics, and a distinct robustness to the interior that is painfully absent from many other cars in this price range.
Adding to the sense of solidity all four doors close with a reassuring thud. The seats are reputably the best in the business, and there does not seem to be any reason to dispute the claims. You could spend hours in them, in supreme comfort, and leave the car still feeling fresh - no aches, sore bums or sore legs for that matter. Passengers in the rear are well provided for, with ample leg space as well as dedicated air-conditioning vents that cocoon them in comfort.
The only downside I found to the interior is that there was no central touch screen system providing access to the navigation, entertainment and vehicle set up. I guess it's the one thing in the interior that shows its age.
 |
The Drive
What's it like to drive? Does the 1.6 liter engine in the Volvo make you wish you were Fred Flintstone and could punch your feet through the bottom of the car to aid it with some forward propulsion? Does it make you feel like a cheapskate for wanting to save the 10 grand on the 2.0T? No, and an emphatic no to the latter
In reality the T4 is more Jetson then Flintstone. The Ford sourced EcoBoost tubo-charged lump is actually very likeable, in this incarnation it puts down 180 horses and 240nm of torque between 1,600-5,000rpm, plus an on demand over-boost to 270nm equates to a 0-100 in 9.2seconds. Not too bad considering the heft the engine has to lug around.
Forget the attention grabbing horse power figures for a moment though; what's most important in day-to-day city driving is torque, and this engine has it in just the right places.
With peak torque available in a wide band just a nick just above idling, it results in a very tractable motor, perfectly at home for city driving. Apart from having useful low-mid end power, the engine sips on fuel too, consumption is listed to be upwards from 13km per liters, which for a car with this much bulk is downright amazing.
As always, the engine performance is one part of the equation, with transmission being the other. Like its brawnier brother the 2.0T, the 1.6 liter version is also equipped with the Ford / Getrag Powershift double clutch gearbox (think Volkswagen DSG, Porsche PDK).
If you still don't get what I mean, just remember that double clutch goooood, CVT and torque converter baaaad. If anyone tells you otherwise, slap them hard and tell them that your mummy told you not to talk to bad people.
What's it like to drive? Does the 1.6 liter engine in the Volvo make you wish you were Fred Flintstone and could punch your feet through the bottom of the car to aid it with some forward propulsion? Does it make you feel like a cheapskate for wanting to save the 10 grand on the 2.0T? No, and an emphatic no to the latter
In reality the T4 is more Jetson then Flintstone. The Ford sourced EcoBoost tubo-charged lump is actually very likeable, in this incarnation it puts down 180 horses and 240nm of torque between 1,600-5,000rpm, plus an on demand over-boost to 270nm equates to a 0-100 in 9.2seconds. Not too bad considering the heft the engine has to lug around.
Forget the attention grabbing horse power figures for a moment though; what's most important in day-to-day city driving is torque, and this engine has it in just the right places.
With peak torque available in a wide band just a nick just above idling, it results in a very tractable motor, perfectly at home for city driving. Apart from having useful low-mid end power, the engine sips on fuel too, consumption is listed to be upwards from 13km per liters, which for a car with this much bulk is downright amazing.
As always, the engine performance is one part of the equation, with transmission being the other. Like its brawnier brother the 2.0T, the 1.6 liter version is also equipped with the Ford / Getrag Powershift double clutch gearbox (think Volkswagen DSG, Porsche PDK).
If you still don't get what I mean, just remember that double clutch goooood, CVT and torque converter baaaad. If anyone tells you otherwise, slap them hard and tell them that your mummy told you not to talk to bad people.
Ok, maybe I'm being a tad dramatic here, but you must admit that the double clutch gearbox has revolutionized the automotive industry, and in the case of the S80, the combination of the punchy little motor combined with the slick and undoubtedly swift shifting transmission makes driving the S80 at speeds below 130km/h a real pleasure.
I'm not going to blow smoke up your 'you know where' and say that the combination of engine and gearbox makes the car feel any faster that its 0-100 times stipulate, but it does provide a very satisfying wave of creamy torque that seems to build up behind you and propel you and the car toward the next traffic light with great ease.
Conclusion
So, here we are at the end, or the beginning for prospective buyers. Does the S80 T4 get my vote?
Well, it depends on what your needs are. If you're looking for safe, luxurious large family sedan with a European ride quality that is targeted primarily at city driving yet still capable of the occasional jaunts up north, the S80 T4 is more car than you will ever need.
However, if frequent long trips up north are more your thing, then you might want to pony up the additional 10k for the 2.0T.
Either way though, the S80 is a good buy. Apart from the dated design, it boasts a good all-round package, and is priced well below competitors in the same segment. Frankly it's hard to fault and deserves a very good look if you're in the market for a large European sedan with decent performance and the excellent habit of sipping fuel through a tiny straw. The T4 gets a thumbs up from me.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
I'm not going to blow smoke up your 'you know where' and say that the combination of engine and gearbox makes the car feel any faster that its 0-100 times stipulate, but it does provide a very satisfying wave of creamy torque that seems to build up behind you and propel you and the car toward the next traffic light with great ease.
Conclusion
So, here we are at the end, or the beginning for prospective buyers. Does the S80 T4 get my vote?
Well, it depends on what your needs are. If you're looking for safe, luxurious large family sedan with a European ride quality that is targeted primarily at city driving yet still capable of the occasional jaunts up north, the S80 T4 is more car than you will ever need.
However, if frequent long trips up north are more your thing, then you might want to pony up the additional 10k for the 2.0T.
Either way though, the S80 is a good buy. Apart from the dated design, it boasts a good all-round package, and is priced well below competitors in the same segment. Frankly it's hard to fault and deserves a very good look if you're in the market for a large European sedan with decent performance and the excellent habit of sipping fuel through a tiny straw. The T4 gets a thumbs up from me.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
In a society that's all too fascinated by the latest and greatest, why, in the name of all that is good are we reviewing a car that has been in the market for a good 5 years?
That's right, 5 years. It's an eternity in dog years, and a lifetime for people in that what's-it's-name fruit company in Cupertino that turns out new products even before the last one has a chance to warm the shelves.
So what new big thing does the refreshed S80 have that makes this newsworthy? Well it's a little thing actually; think a bottle and a half of Coke and you won't be too far from the point.
In the era of downsizing, Volvo has thought it wise to slip the force induced 180hp rated 1.6 Liter Ford EcoBoost engine, as well as the Ford Powershft - read dual-clutch - transmission into the mix. The new variant is simply called the T4. It joins the 2.0T, as well as the big daddy of the range, the T6.
That's right, 5 years. It's an eternity in dog years, and a lifetime for people in that what's-it's-name fruit company in Cupertino that turns out new products even before the last one has a chance to warm the shelves.
So what new big thing does the refreshed S80 have that makes this newsworthy? Well it's a little thing actually; think a bottle and a half of Coke and you won't be too far from the point.
In the era of downsizing, Volvo has thought it wise to slip the force induced 180hp rated 1.6 Liter Ford EcoBoost engine, as well as the Ford Powershft - read dual-clutch - transmission into the mix. The new variant is simply called the T4. It joins the 2.0T, as well as the big daddy of the range, the T6.
|
What's the downside then? Drive both the 2.0T and the T4 in city traffic and unless someone tells you which car you are actually driving, you honestly won't be able to tell the difference.
Take them both out on the open highway and the differences are obvious, the shorter gearing that provides much of the T4's punch down low makes it seem a tad out of breath on long high speed jaunts. It's not that T4 won't handle license breaking trips to Kuala Lumpur; it's just that it won't do it with as much ease and aplomb as its larger brethren would.
|
So how does the S80 handle? Well, like most other large luxury European sedans would. The ride quality is excellent, passengers are well isolated from the bumps in the road, handling is confident enough - it does not rock like a boat, and sound intrusion is minimal. In short the S80 more than holds its own against the newer kids on the block with very little to differentiate between them.
Thus, we arrive at the million dollar question - or two, to be exact - that desperately need answering. One: is the wee-bitty engine in the 1.6 ton Swede a bridge too far - is it too much car for the motor? Two: should a prospective buyer pony up the extra 10 grand for the Cat B goodness of the 2.0T?
Exterior
Apart from the badge that says T4 and different sized / types of rims on the other variants, you could say that the S80 T4 looks like any other S80 that plies the streets. When the S80 was launched 5 years ago, it didn't set the world on fire with its good looks, and too be honest, the Swedish car maker has never been renowned for that.
Volvos have always tended to err on the side of functional and purposeful designs that are generally conservative. The all new S60 might be the dawn of a new era of sexy Volvos, but the S80 is clearly a mark from the past. That's not saying it's unattractive, but it does appeal to a more mature crowd.
Thus, we arrive at the million dollar question - or two, to be exact - that desperately need answering. One: is the wee-bitty engine in the 1.6 ton Swede a bridge too far - is it too much car for the motor? Two: should a prospective buyer pony up the extra 10 grand for the Cat B goodness of the 2.0T?
Exterior
Apart from the badge that says T4 and different sized / types of rims on the other variants, you could say that the S80 T4 looks like any other S80 that plies the streets. When the S80 was launched 5 years ago, it didn't set the world on fire with its good looks, and too be honest, the Swedish car maker has never been renowned for that.
Volvos have always tended to err on the side of functional and purposeful designs that are generally conservative. The all new S60 might be the dawn of a new era of sexy Volvos, but the S80 is clearly a mark from the past. That's not saying it's unattractive, but it does appeal to a more mature crowd.
A crowd that places priority on safety, passenger comfort, and certain level of rarity when compared to the other more common continental makes. Frankly I'm in my early thirties and I wouldn't mind having the S80 as my daily driver; I would probably have it in black though with a set of aftermarket rims to go just to spruce things up a bit.
Interior
While the exterior maybe borderline bland, the interior is an extremely pleasant place to be in. The design, fit, and finish are typical Volvo fare, meaning high quality soft touch plastics, and a distinct robustness to the interior that is painfully absent from many other cars in this price range.
Adding to the sense of solidity all four doors close with a reassuring thud. The seats are reputably the best in the business, and there does not seem to be any reason to dispute the claims. You could spend hours in them, in supreme comfort, and leave the car still feeling fresh - no aches, sore bums or sore legs for that matter. Passengers in the rear are well provided for, with ample leg space as well as dedicated air-conditioning vents that cocoon them in comfort.
The only downside I found to the interior is that there was no central touch screen system providing access to the navigation, entertainment and vehicle set up. I guess it's the one thing in the interior that shows its age.
Interior
While the exterior maybe borderline bland, the interior is an extremely pleasant place to be in. The design, fit, and finish are typical Volvo fare, meaning high quality soft touch plastics, and a distinct robustness to the interior that is painfully absent from many other cars in this price range.
Adding to the sense of solidity all four doors close with a reassuring thud. The seats are reputably the best in the business, and there does not seem to be any reason to dispute the claims. You could spend hours in them, in supreme comfort, and leave the car still feeling fresh - no aches, sore bums or sore legs for that matter. Passengers in the rear are well provided for, with ample leg space as well as dedicated air-conditioning vents that cocoon them in comfort.
The only downside I found to the interior is that there was no central touch screen system providing access to the navigation, entertainment and vehicle set up. I guess it's the one thing in the interior that shows its age.
|
The Drive
What's it like to drive? Does the 1.6 liter engine in the Volvo make you wish you were Fred Flintstone and could punch your feet through the bottom of the car to aid it with some forward propulsion? Does it make you feel like a cheapskate for wanting to save the 10 grand on the 2.0T? No, and an emphatic no to the latter
In reality the T4 is more Jetson then Flintstone. The Ford sourced EcoBoost tubo-charged lump is actually very likeable, in this incarnation it puts down 180 horses and 240nm of torque between 1,600-5,000rpm, plus an on demand over-boost to 270nm equates to a 0-100 in 9.2seconds. Not too bad considering the heft the engine has to lug around.
Forget the attention grabbing horse power figures for a moment though; what's most important in day-to-day city driving is torque, and this engine has it in just the right places.
With peak torque available in a wide band just a nick just above idling, it results in a very tractable motor, perfectly at home for city driving. Apart from having useful low-mid end power, the engine sips on fuel too, consumption is listed to be upwards from 13km per liters, which for a car with this much bulk is downright amazing.
As always, the engine performance is one part of the equation, with transmission being the other. Like its brawnier brother the 2.0T, the 1.6 liter version is also equipped with the Ford / Getrag Powershift double clutch gearbox (think Volkswagen DSG, Porsche PDK).
If you still don't get what I mean, just remember that double clutch goooood, CVT and torque converter baaaad. If anyone tells you otherwise, slap them hard and tell them that your mummy told you not to talk to bad people.
What's it like to drive? Does the 1.6 liter engine in the Volvo make you wish you were Fred Flintstone and could punch your feet through the bottom of the car to aid it with some forward propulsion? Does it make you feel like a cheapskate for wanting to save the 10 grand on the 2.0T? No, and an emphatic no to the latter
In reality the T4 is more Jetson then Flintstone. The Ford sourced EcoBoost tubo-charged lump is actually very likeable, in this incarnation it puts down 180 horses and 240nm of torque between 1,600-5,000rpm, plus an on demand over-boost to 270nm equates to a 0-100 in 9.2seconds. Not too bad considering the heft the engine has to lug around.
Forget the attention grabbing horse power figures for a moment though; what's most important in day-to-day city driving is torque, and this engine has it in just the right places.
With peak torque available in a wide band just a nick just above idling, it results in a very tractable motor, perfectly at home for city driving. Apart from having useful low-mid end power, the engine sips on fuel too, consumption is listed to be upwards from 13km per liters, which for a car with this much bulk is downright amazing.
As always, the engine performance is one part of the equation, with transmission being the other. Like its brawnier brother the 2.0T, the 1.6 liter version is also equipped with the Ford / Getrag Powershift double clutch gearbox (think Volkswagen DSG, Porsche PDK).
If you still don't get what I mean, just remember that double clutch goooood, CVT and torque converter baaaad. If anyone tells you otherwise, slap them hard and tell them that your mummy told you not to talk to bad people.
Ok, maybe I'm being a tad dramatic here, but you must admit that the double clutch gearbox has revolutionized the automotive industry, and in the case of the S80, the combination of the punchy little motor combined with the slick and undoubtedly swift shifting transmission makes driving the S80 at speeds below 130km/h a real pleasure.
I'm not going to blow smoke up your 'you know where' and say that the combination of engine and gearbox makes the car feel any faster that its 0-100 times stipulate, but it does provide a very satisfying wave of creamy torque that seems to build up behind you and propel you and the car toward the next traffic light with great ease.
Conclusion
So, here we are at the end, or the beginning for prospective buyers. Does the S80 T4 get my vote?
Well, it depends on what your needs are. If you're looking for safe, luxurious large family sedan with a European ride quality that is targeted primarily at city driving yet still capable of the occasional jaunts up north, the S80 T4 is more car than you will ever need.
However, if frequent long trips up north are more your thing, then you might want to pony up the additional 10k for the 2.0T.
Either way though, the S80 is a good buy. Apart from the dated design, it boasts a good all-round package, and is priced well below competitors in the same segment. Frankly it's hard to fault and deserves a very good look if you're in the market for a large European sedan with decent performance and the excellent habit of sipping fuel through a tiny straw. The T4 gets a thumbs up from me.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
I'm not going to blow smoke up your 'you know where' and say that the combination of engine and gearbox makes the car feel any faster that its 0-100 times stipulate, but it does provide a very satisfying wave of creamy torque that seems to build up behind you and propel you and the car toward the next traffic light with great ease.
Conclusion
So, here we are at the end, or the beginning for prospective buyers. Does the S80 T4 get my vote?
Well, it depends on what your needs are. If you're looking for safe, luxurious large family sedan with a European ride quality that is targeted primarily at city driving yet still capable of the occasional jaunts up north, the S80 T4 is more car than you will ever need.
However, if frequent long trips up north are more your thing, then you might want to pony up the additional 10k for the 2.0T.
Either way though, the S80 is a good buy. Apart from the dated design, it boasts a good all-round package, and is priced well below competitors in the same segment. Frankly it's hard to fault and deserves a very good look if you're in the market for a large European sedan with decent performance and the excellent habit of sipping fuel through a tiny straw. The T4 gets a thumbs up from me.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Photos by Ian Wu
Also read our comparison article on:
Lexus ES250 2.5 Luxury (A) vs Volvo S80 T5 Drive-E (A)
Car Information
Volvo S80 T4 (A)
CAT B|Petrol|13.3km/L
Horsepower
134kW (180 bhp)
Torque
240 Nm
Acceleration
9.2sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Volvo S80
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