What are the key features of the Volvo S80?

The Volvo S80 boasts high safety ratings, a comfortable and spacious interior, competitive pricing for a luxury electric vehicle, and advanced technology, making it a premier choice for families and commuters.

How does the Volvo S80 perform on the road?

While the S80 prioritises comfort over sporty handling, it provides a smooth ride in town and excellent stability on the motorway, with strong electric torque for quick acceleration.

What makes the Volvo S80 a good choice for budget-conscious buyers?

Starting at £28,000 with financing options at 6.9% APR, the Volvo S80 offers both luxury and efficiency, reducing running costs thanks to its electric vehicle status.

How does the Volvo S80 compare to its rivals?

While it may lack the dynamic drive of rivals like the BMW i4, the Volvo S80 excels in comfort, safety, and practicality, making it a solid choice for those valuing these qualities.

What is the history of the Volvo S80?

Launched in 2006, the Volvo S80 evolved with a major facelift in 2013, improving aesthetics and technology, before shifting focus to electrification, merging its premium heritage with modern efficiency.

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3.8/5· Volvo

Volvo S80 (2006 - 2016)

Item: Volvo S80 (2006 - 2016)
Rating: 3.8
Author: Motoring.Today

2006 – 2016· 5 owner Q&As

Diesel4 Door

Motoring.Today Verdict

7.6/10

Very good

As retro icons make a comeback, the Volvo S80 (2006-2016) takes centre stage—offering a blend of classic elegance and electric efficiency. It's time to see how this old-school charmer stacks up against modern rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and BMW i4.

At a glance

178

hp · Power

1047

miles · Range / tank

8.1s

0–60 mph

Running costs

From £566/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

Luxurious interior with high-quality materials
Exceptional safety ratings and features
Smooth ride and powerful performance options

Consider alternatives if

Higher initial purchase price compared to some competitors
Limited rear visibility due to design
Some tech features may feel dated compared to newer models

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£566/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £3,400 deposit

Best suited for

Company Car Drivers
Petrol/Diesel Buyers
High Mileage Drivers
Families

Affordability

Affordable

Above average monthly commitment.

Ratings breakdown

performance40/10

practicality40/10

running costs30/10

behind the wheel42/10

comfort45/10

equipment38/10

green credentials25/10

handling35/10

reliability40/10

safety48/10

Theo's AI summary

The Volvo S80 is a commendable choice for those seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality in a sedan. Its combination of superior comfort, advanced safety features, and now a commitment to electrification, with the retro icon reborn, makes it an attractive option for both traditionalists and modern drivers. Ultimately, the S80 represents a harmonious evolution of a classic design, poised to meet the demands of today’s automotive landscape.

Best match for

Performance enthusiasts
Practical families
Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£86/month

Insurance

£130/month

Road Tax

£2/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£278/month

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The Volvo S80 (2006 - 2016) boasts a refined driving character that effortlessly combines luxury with performance. Its smooth acceleration and responsive steering make it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a serene driving experience. Enhanced by its robust engineering, the

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Volvo S80 (2006-2016) receives praise for its safety features, comfortable interior, and smooth ride. However, it is critiqued for underwhelming engine performance and dated infotainment technology. Overall, it's viewed as a solid used car choice for those prioritising luxury and safety over sportiness.

Read full review

Autocar

Experts commend the Volvo S80's understated elegance and spacious cabin, making it ideal for long journeys. Criticisms include a lack of dynamic driving flair and high running costs. Overall, it stands out as a refined choice but may not appeal to those seeking a sporty drive.

Read full review

WhatCar

The S80 is recognised for its reliability, with many owners reporting few serious issues. However, some models may suffer from electrical problems and high servicing costs. Overall, it’s deemed a dependable option, provided buyers are mindful of maintenance.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

In terms of finance, potential buyers will find several flexible financing options available, including traditional loans and leasing arrangements. The Volvo S80 holds its value well, making it a pragmatic choice for both private buyers and businesses alike.

Day-to-day running costs

Running costs for the Volvo S80, once considered, reveal a competitive edge within its class, particularly for those opting for diesel variants. Routine maintenance and servicing are relatively straightforward, contributing to a predictable ownership experience. Owners will also benefit from Volvo's solid reputation for reliability and longevity, enhancing long-term value.

Charging & fuel

For electric variants of the S80, charging infrastructure is notably expanding, offering various options from home charging solutions to rapid public stations. For conventional petrol or diesel models, fuel economy ranges adequately based on driving style and conditions, ensuring economical travel without sacrificing performance.

Heritage

Milestones & history

2006
Launch of the Volvo S80, marking a new era of premium sedans.
2010
Introduction of updated engines and enhanced safety features.
2016
Final production year of the S80, paving the way for electrified successors.

Read full launch story

The Volvo S80 was designed to provide a luxury experience with a strong emphasis on safety and comfort, appealing to discerning buyers who seek both style and substance. Over its production span, the S80 evolved significantly with advancements in engine performance, safety technology, and driver assistance systems, ultimately laying a foundation for Volvo’s contemporary electrified offerings.

Compare with alternatives

The Volvo S80 (2006 - 2016) competes strongly in the luxury executive segment, offering unique advantages in comfort and safety compared to its rivals.

Audi A6 Saloon

Reference only

A premium executive sedan known for its luxurious features and technology.

vs features: The Audi A6 offers a more dynamic driving experience and a high-tech cabin with advanced infotainment. The S80 is renowned for its comfort and safety features, though it may lack some of the innovative tech present in the A6.
vs price: Typically, the A6 can be slightly more expensive than the S80, particularly in higher trim levels and with added options.

No Motoring.Today review

BMW 5 Series Saloon

Reference only

A benchmark in the executive segment, praised for its engaging driving dynamics and performance.

vs features: While the 5 Series provides superb handling and a sportier feel, the S80 excels in comfort and plushness. Tech-wise, both vehicles offer competitive infotainment options, but the BMW has a more driver-focused layout.
vs price: Generally, the 5 Series is priced competitively with the S80, depending on the specifications and options chosen.

No Motoring.Today review

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Reference only

A luxury sedan that emphasizes comfort, technology, and safety, often seen as a status symbol.

vs features: The E-Class is often lauded for its superior ride quality and advanced driver assistance technologies, equaling or surpassing the S80's offerings in some areas. However, the S80 may provide a more understated, minimalist design that appeals to some buyers.
vs price: The E-Class can be slightly more expensive than the S80, especially with higher trim options and added luxuries.

No Motoring.Today review

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Gallery

(15)

Specs by trim

D4 (181bhp) SE Nav 4dDiesel Manual · 2013–2016

Power: 178 bhp
0–60 mph: 8.1 s
Top speed: 140 mph
Torque: 400 Nm
Economy: 68 mpg
Range: 1047 mi
CO₂: 108 g/km
Insurance group: 29
Road tax: £20
New price: £32,420

D4 (181bhp) SE Nav 4d GeartronicDiesel Automatic · 2013–2016

Power: 178 bhp
0–60 mph: 8.1 s
Top speed: 140 mph
Torque: 400 Nm
Economy: 62 mpg
Range: 954 mi
CO₂: 119 g/km
Insurance group: 29
Road tax: £35
New price: £33,970

D4 (181bhp) SE Lux 4dDiesel Manual · 2013–2016

Power: 178 bhp
0–60 mph: 8.1 s
Top speed: 140 mph
Torque: 400 Nm
Economy: 68 mpg
Range: 1047 mi
CO₂: 108 g/km
Insurance group: 30
Road tax: £20
New price: £33,920

D4 (181bhp) SE Lux 4d GeartronicDiesel Automatic · 2013–2016

Power: 178 bhp
0–60 mph: 8.1 s
Top speed: 140 mph
Torque: 400 Nm
Economy: 62 mpg
Range: 954 mi
CO₂: 119 g/km
Insurance group: 30
Road tax: £35
New price: £35,470

FAQs

What are the key features of the Volvo S80?: The Volvo S80 boasts high safety ratings, a comfortable and spacious interior, competitive pricing for a luxury electric vehicle, and advanced technology, making it a premier choice for families and commuters.
How does the Volvo S80 perform on the road?: While the S80 prioritises comfort over sporty handling, it provides a smooth ride in town and excellent stability on the motorway, with strong electric torque for quick acceleration.
What makes the Volvo S80 a good choice for budget-conscious buyers?: Starting at £28,000 with financing options at 6.9% APR, the Volvo S80 offers both luxury and efficiency, reducing running costs thanks to its electric vehicle status.
How does the Volvo S80 compare to its rivals?: While it may lack the dynamic drive of rivals like the BMW i4, the Volvo S80 excels in comfort, safety, and practicality, making it a solid choice for those valuing these qualities.
What is the history of the Volvo S80?: Launched in 2006, the Volvo S80 evolved with a major facelift in 2013, improving aesthetics and technology, before shifting focus to electrification, merging its premium heritage with modern efficiency.