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Premium large car; Built in Sweden
  • 4-door sedan
  • transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $6,700 – $33,900*


2007 Volvo S80


2007 Volvo S80


2007 Volvo S80


2007 Volvo S80

Pros:
  • Acceleration (V8 and T6)
  • Control layout
  • Interior materials
  • Ride
  • Seat comfort (front)
  • Steering/handling (V8 and T6)
Cons:
  • Cargo room
  • Fuel economy (V8 and T6)

Stylish and comfortable, Volvo’s redesigned S80 nevertheless cannot match the brand cachet and the sportiness or pure luxury of the best in this class. Regular six-cylinder versions trail rivals for power, and haven’t been offered with all-wheel drive. V8 models and the turbocharged T6 are more in line with luxury buyers’ expectations, and new-car prices have undercut V8-powered competitors. Resale values have been around average, so used-car prices might appeal.

Overview

Volvo’s flagship sedan was redesigned for 2007, and became the automaker’s first car available with a V8 engine. Styling evolved from the 1999-2006 design, and dimensions changed little, inside or out. Two versions were offered, with new engines. The 3.2 model had front-wheel drive and a 235-horsepower inline six-cylinder engine. The S80 V8 had all-wheel drive and a Yamaha-developed 311-hp, 4.4-liter V8, similar to the one used in Volvo’s XC90 SUV. A six-speed automatic was the sole transmission. Previous S80s had a five-cylinder engine and five-speed automatic.

Antilock braking and traction/antiskid control were standard. So were front side airbags and curtain side airbags. Adaptive cruise control with a collision warning function was a new S80 option. Another new option was Volvo’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), with a mirror-mounted camera that detected and warned of nearby objects that might otherwise go unseen by the driver. An optional Sport Package included driver-adjustable power-steering settings and Volvo’s Four-C adaptive suspension, with Comfort, Sport, and Advanced settings. Other options included a navigation system and DVD entertainment.

An S80 could also be equipped with a Personal Car Communicator, including a heartbeat sensor that could warn if a person was inside the car from yards away. Available Ready Alert Brakes were designed to pre-charge the braking system if an imminent collision was detected. Volvo’s S80 competed against such models as the Acura RL, Audi A6, and Cadillac DTS.

Yearly Updates

2008 S80
A new performance-oriented version of the S80 debuted for 2008. The all-wheel-drive T6 sedan held a turbocharged 281-horsepower, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and Volvo’s six-speed automatic transmission.
2009 S80
A new Convenience Package offered front- and rear-obstacle detection, rear audio controls, and keyless access and engine start. The Sport Package was discontinued.
2010 S80
The 2010 Volvo S80 received revised option packages and was available with a slightly retuned base engine. New in 2010 was a Partial Zero Emissions (PZEV) version of the 6-cylinder engine that produces 225 horsepower. It was designed to produce fewer emissions while getting better fuel economy than the 235-horsepower version.
2011 S80
The 2011 Volvo S80 lineup lost its V8 model, while the 3.2-liter six gained five horsepower (to 240) and the T6’s 3.0-liter turbo six gained 19 horsepower (to 300).
2012 S80
Some new option packages and a revised dashboard marked the 2012 edition of the Volvo S80.
2013 S80
All 2013 S80 models added standard headlamp washers, rain-sensing windshield wipers, keyless entry, push-button start, and Volvo’s Personal Car Communicator (PCC) keyfob. Other new features included an automatic tunnel-detection mode for the headlamps, a redesigned gear lever, additional functionality for the Sensus entertainment control interface, and a couple new paint colors. The available technology package added Active High Beam functionality to the headlamps and a Road Sign Information system that was able to display roadside speed limit signs in the car’s instrument cluster.
2014 S80
The Volvo S80 received modestly updated exterior styling for the 2014 model year. Interior tweaks included a new steering wheel and gearshift lever. There was also a new digital instrument cluster with three different driver-selectable displays. The optional Climate Package now included a heated windshield and a heated steering wheel. T6 AWD models could now be ordered with 19-inch wheels and a lowered suspension.

Engines

transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive

Two engines were available initially in the redesigned S80: a 235-horsepower inline six-cylinder, and a 4.4-liter V8 that generated 311 horsepower. Both engines mated with a six-speed automatic transmission. Volvo introduced a T6 with a 281-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter six for 2008. Newly available in 2010 was a Partial Zero Emissions (PZEV) version of the 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine that made 225 horsepower. It was designed to produce fewer emissions while getting better fuel economy than the 235-horsepower version. For 2011, the 3.2-liter six gained five horsepower to 240, the turbo 3.0 gained 19 horsepower to 300, and the V8 was dropped.

dohc I61
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.2/195
Engine HP 225-240
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 236
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 16/24

 19.9
Turbocharged dohc I61
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.0/180
Engine HP 281-300
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 295-325
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 15/23

 17.3
dohc V81
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 4.4/269
Engine HP 311
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 325
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 15/23

 17.8

1. EPA Note: Figures shown are for 2008 models. The Environmental Protection Agency changed its procedure for 2008 to yield more realistic estimates. Therefore, estimated mileage is lower than for prior years.

Road Test

Acceleration varies with the powertrain. Volvo’s smooth 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine provides adequate power, but lacks punch compared to V6-powered class rivals–and even cars costing much less. The V8 and the turbo six are smoother and, though a bit docile from a start, delivers willing power appropriate for the class. With either engine, the transmission shifts seamlessly.

Fuel economy is so-so with six cylinders, and less so with the V8 or turbo. A test six-cylinder 3.2 averaged 19.9 mpg. A V8 models averaged 17.8 mpg, while the T6 managed only 17.3 mpg. Volvo recommends premium-grade fuel for all engines.

Ride quality scores high, as the base suspension is comfortable and composed. Volvo’s Four-C adjustable suspension provides a generally compliant ride, but its Comfort setting allows too much float over humps, while Sport and Advanced settings can trigger jiggle over bumps and washboard surfaces. Some test-drivers say the T6 feels unsettled.

An S80 never feels sporty, but handles with controlled competence. The Four-C suspension’s Sport and Advanced settings reduce body lean in turns. A Sport Package’s steering-force-level choices range from light to moderately heavy, but steering never feels sports-car firm. A tight turning radius helps with close-quarters maneuverability. AWD adds a measure of security in slippery conditions, but hasn’t been available with 3.2 models. Worry-free braking is aided by optional adaptive cruise control, which readies brakes and sounds an alarm if the system detects a possible collision. One test model suffered from slightly mushy brake-pedal feel.

Cabins are subdued, but not as quiet as many luxury-class competitors. Six-cylinder engines growl under acceleration. The V8 has a bit sportier exhaust note, but sounds more refined overall. Little wind noise is noted, but noticeable tire thrum occurs on some coarse surfaces.

Gauges are easy to read. While the control layout is simple, and they’re actually easy to use, the abundance of buttons can seem complicated at first. Some are set low, requiring a quick look away from the road. If installed, Volvo’s navigation screen pops up from the dashboard, and that system includes a hand-held remote control. The available Blind Spot Information System can be useful, but may occasionally give false readings. Most interior materials aren’t especially rich for a premium car. Wood trim is particularly dull. Still, the cabin is decently appointed overall.

Comfortable, supportive front seats have enough settings to make most people happy. Ample headroom and vast leg space also entice. Lumbar support and the manually-adjustable tilt/telescoping steering wheel are welcome, too, though they’re usually power-operated in this class. Thick roof pillars obscure views to front corners, but not to the rear.

Backseat riders get decent room, but foot space is cramped below front seats and legroom diminishes with front seats moved far aft. Seatbacks may be too firm and angled steeply back for some tastes, but entry/exit is easy.

Low trunk liftover, non-intrusive hinges, and standard split-folding rear seats are bonuses for cargo hauling. The small trunk opening won’t permit loading of large boxes.

Ratings

Model Tested: 2007 S80 3.2

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 6
60%
Fuel Economy - 5
50%
Ride Quality - 7
70%
Steering/Handling - 6
60%
Quietness - 7
70%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 7
70%
Room/Comfort Front - 8
80%
Room/Comfort Rear - 6
60%
Cargo Room - 4
40%

Other

Value - 5
50%

Total: 61

Specifications

4-door sedan
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
112.0 191.0 73.0 59.0 3486
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
17.0 18.5 5
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
39.0 38.0 41.9 35.0
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: N/A Not Tested 4-door sedan

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - N/A
N/A0%
Front Passenger Injury - N/A
N/A0%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - N/A
N/A0%
Rear Passenger Injury - N/A
N/A0%

Trouble Spots

Brakes
Description: The electric assist parking brake may not release or may not apply which often requires replacement of the parking brake module. (2007-09)
Exhaust system
Description: A squeal from under the car right after driving through water, slush or snow is caused by the exhaust pipe temporarily warping and touching the drive shaft requiring installation of an extra exhaust hanger. (2007)
Keys
Description: The key may occasionally get stuck in the ignition due to a problem with the shifter cable. (2007)
Audio system
Description: The buttons for the CD player may get jammed behind the faceplate requiring replacement of the anti-rattle tape behind the plate. (2007-08)
Audio system
Description: It is possible to mistakenly insert a second disc into the rear DVD player, but this will jam the discs and damage may occur from the retrieval procedure. (2007-08)
Audio system
Description: Various noises may come from the speakers is an auxiliary music player (e.g. iPod) is used and the volume is above half-way on some early-production vehicles for which there is a revised cable for the wiring harness. (2007)
Steering problems
Description: Power steering assist may be poor on vehicles with speed sensitive steering, but after cycling ignition key, the steering assistance may then be normal requiring a new power steering control module. (2001-09)
Suspension problems
Description: A bushing in the rear suspension can fail causing incorrect rear-wheel alignment or camber angle resulting in the vehicle drifting or pulling while in motion. Clunking or knocking noises may also be present on uneven road surfaces. (2007-2013)
None
Description: Noises may come from the B-pillars unless squeak-and-rattle tape is applied to the underside. (2007)
Fuel door
Description: The fuel door may not open in hot weather due to close tolerances and expanding metal and lubing the lock pin usually frees it up. (2007-09)
Navigation system
Description: The GPS voice guidance may stop unexpectedly and can be restored by switching between male and female voices, but full functionality requires software update to the multimedia module. (2007-09)

Recall History

2007 S80 passenger cars manufactured from March 8, 2006, through May 16, 2007.
Description: The power steering reservoir return hose may have been incorrectly routed, which can result in increased pressure in the power steering system. The power steering return hose may burst at the steering gear due to the increased pressure, resulting in a loss of power steering fluid. The driver may experience a sudden loss of power steering, increasing the risk of a crash. Volvo dealers will inspect the routing of the power steering reservoir return hose and make repairs as necessary, free of charge.
2007-08
Description: The diagnostic software in the central electronic module (CEM) may cause a malfunction of the windshield wiper functionality. If this condition occurs, the windshield wipers may not operate when activated; or in certain cases the windshield wipers may activate when not switched on. Dealers will inspect the CEM and upgrade the software free of charge.
2008 w/V8
Description: Engine mount may have incorrect bolts, possibly causing aluminum bracket to break, which could allow engine to contact subframe, ultimately resulting in reduced torque or stalling.
2008-09
Description: The engine cooling fan may stop working due to a software programming error. The customer may experience reduced air conditioning performance, and/or rapid increase in engine coolant temperature. Dealers will replace the fan control module free of charge.
2008-10
Description: Under certain conditions, the software within the central electronic module (CEM) may not send a signal to the fuel pump electronic module (PEM). This missing signal to the PEM inhibits the start of the fuel pump, which may stall the engine and could potentially cause a crash. Dealers will download software to the CEM free of charge.
2010-2011 S80
Description: There may be an intermittent fault in the driver’s airbag clockspring wiring connector for the supplemental restraint system. In the event of a crash, the driver’s frontal airbag may not deploy as intended or at all, and therefore will not be able to properly protect the driver, increasing the risk of injuries. Dealers will install a metal shim in the driver’s air bag clockspring wiring connector. This service will be performed free of charge.
2011 S80
Description: The software calibration for the fuel cut-off functionality in the engine control module (ECM) is too sensitive. Sudden engine stall could occur increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will update the ECM and TCM with new software free of charge.
2011-2013 S80
Description: Software error may prevent the transmission from downshifting, potentially causing decreased RPMs or stalling.
2012 S80
Description: Front seat wire harness may not be attached properly to the seat frame and may impact airbag deployment and lap-belt pretensioner in event of a crash.
2013 S80
Description: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) can malfunction because of a software error in the vehicle’s Central Electronic Module (CEM).

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

More about Tom Appel
Written by: Tom Appel on August 24, 2017.
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