2015 Volvo S80

The 2015 S80 is largely the same as last year's model. Volvo's flagship sedan still shows off the luxury automaker's flair for understated elegance, performance and safety while turning in a solid value.

The S80 comes in two trims for 2015, starting with the front-wheel-drive, 240-hp 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder base model. Buyers can choose to step up to the 3.0L all-wheel-drive version, which features a turbocharged I6 engine that makes 300 hp and 325 ft-lb of torque. Volvo's all-wheel-drive system includes Instant Traction, which provides excellent grip on both wet and dry pavement. Both S80 variations are available in Premier Plus or Premium trims.

While the 6-cylinder version of the S80 is equipped with a 6-speed automatic, the base model now comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission, helping to aid fuel economy. The S80 features a quiet cabin and optional "Four-C" suspension, which allows smoother handing of bumps and less body roll on hard cornering.

Safety has always been a hallmark of Volvo's cars, and the S80 is no different, with high-tech items such as a unique collision warning system with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, active bi-xenon headlights, an available blindspot alert system and a body structure with four different grades of steel that was designed at the Volvo Safety Center. Add to that a host of airbags, including front and side curtain units, and the S80 is easily among the safest cars in its class.

With either engine, the S80 comes impressively equipped and includes heated power mirrors, satellite radio, 8-way power-adjustable seats, lots of leather and dual-zone climate control. The instrument display for 2015 features a configurable setup that allows the driver to adjust the look of the gauges to their preference. Premier Plus trim brings Keyless Drive, a system that allows 2-way communication so the driver can monitor the vehicle's status remotely as well as interior occupants with a heartbeat sensor. A HomeLink garage door opener is also included, as is front and rear park-assist. The Platinum trim adds voice-controlled navigation and a rear-view camera.

Several packages are available, including a Dynamic Package on the T6 all-wheel-drive that includes a sport-tuned chassis, firmer springs, modified shock settings, stiffer roll bars and subframe bushings, dual xenon headlights with Active Bending Lights and 18-inch "Ymir" forged alloy wheels. Volvo Navigation, while standard on the Platinum model, is optional on other S80s, as well as a rear camera, Volvo's Personal Car Communicator system and Volvo's Blind Spot Information System. An Inscription Package includes special Sovereign Hide soft leather seats, a classic walnut steering wheel, ventilated front seats, walnut wood inlays on the dash and door panels and special doorsill plates and floor mats.
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