Model Overview: 2011 Volvo S80
07/20/2010
Volvo
Volvo's flagship S80 offers a revised model lineup for 2011 along with enhanced powerplants and equipment availability. While the previous S80 V8 AWD model has been discontinued, the S80 T6 AWD receives a boost in output that makes it nearly as powerful at a lower price point than the V8.
The S80 T6 AWD's 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine now develops 300 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque, for net gains of 19 hp and 30 lb.-ft. respectively from last year. By comparison, it delivers identical torque to the previous V8 at lower rpm. Maximum torque is available all the way up the rev range resulting in quick acceleration and smooth drivability. As a result, the T6 AWD is capable of 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds, just 0.3 seconds more than the former V8. The S80 T6 AWD is fitted with Volvo's All-Wheel Drive with Instant TractionTM for excellent grip on wet, slippery or completely dry roads.
Meanwhile, the S80 3.2 receives a modest increase in power this year. Its 3.2-liter naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine now delivers 240 horsepower with ULEV II emissions rating or 230 horsepower with PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) rating. All S80s are equipped with a six-speed "Geartronic" transmission that lets the driver select fully automatic operation or shift manually when desired.
A Dynamic Package offered on the T6 AWD includes a Sport Chassis for crisper response via a lower ride height, shorter and firmer springs, modified shock damping, firmer anti-roll bars and stiffer subframe bushings. Also included in the package are 18-inch "Fortuna" diamond-cut alloy wheels and dual xenon gas discharge headlights with Active Bending Lights (ABL).
Inside the sumptuously appointed cabin the emphasis is on rewarding the driver and passengers with advanced levels of comfort and luxury. The standard leather-trimmed seats with matching stitching are accompanied by door panels echoing the same motif. Volvo's signature ultra-slim floating center stack features a silk metal frame that enhances its exclusive appeal.
A Multimedia Package offers the Volvo Premium Sound System with Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R) II Surround Sound, 650-watt amplifier and 12 premium speakers. Also included is the Volvo Navigation System with Real Time Traffic, remote control and a new rear park assist camera. The Personal Car Communicator with Keyless Drive and two-way car communication is available as an option along with Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).
Both S80 models can now be enhanced with an Inscription Package. The list of enhancements includes Sovereign Hide soft leather seating surfaces, classic walnut wood steering wheel, ventilated front seats, classic wood inlays, upper dash and door panels, Inscription doorsill plates and floor mats, leather and classic walnut wood gearshift lever and a leather center armrest cover.
In nearly every area of occupant protection the S80 expands Volvo's leadership in both preventative and protective safety. Innovations include side airbags with dual chamber construction for enhanced hip and chest protection. Clever structural design employs four different grades of steel for predictable crash energy absorption. The S80 also features the next generation of WHIPS rear impact protection and new approaches to pedestrian safety.
A Technology Package is available on both models. It includes preventative safety technologies focusing on preventing driver distractions that studies show cause up to 90 percent of all traffic accidents. Based on this statistic, Volvo developed efficient features to help drivers avoid or reduce the severity of accidents caused by distraction and driver fatigue. The package includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Warning with Auto Brake (CWAB), Distance Alert (DA), Driver Alert Control (DAC) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW).