2000 Volvo S80

By Bob Storck

The car company that has based their reputation on safety and value steps into the luxury market. Volvo S80 delivers comfort, refinement and performance in balanced measures.

Seldom have you heard Volvo and styling mentioned in the same breath, but the S80 is a head turner. It has lost the boxy appearance, with styling and highlight lines flowing from front to rear, ending with distinctive tail lights.

Most of our time is spent on the inside looking out, and S80 has banished the spartan functionality, and in its place provided style, elegance and comfort. You can operate the audio system, the trip computer, the mobile telephone, the cruise control and the navigation system without taking your hands off the steering wheel.

As can be expected, every aspect of the car has been designed with safety paramount, including whiplash protecting seats and the full package of air bags.

Smooth, vibration-free running and the responsive power characterize Volvo's in-line six-cylinder units. The 204 hp, 2.9-litre engine comes with an amazingly small "smart" four-speed automatic. If you want an even stronger engine, choose the Volvo S80 T6, which has a turbocharged 272hp 2.8-litre unit.