Used 2013 Volvo S80

The 2013 Volvo S80 may not have the cachet of a Lexus GS, Audi A6 or BMW 5 Series, but it merits consideration among these premium brands nonetheless. Volvo’s largest sedan isn’t known for the most daring styling or thrilling performance. Instead, it brings a pedigree of safety and understated elegance, qualities long associated with the Swedish marque. The S80 offers a choice of normally aspirated or turbocharged 6-cylinder engines, front-drive or all-wheel drive (AWD), and a luxurious, functional interior that’s among the most comfortable in its class. And for those who need to tow, the S80 is rated to pull up to 3,300 pounds, more than some small SUVs.

The S80 offers two distinct experiences depending upon which engine is under the hood. Cars with the base 3.2-liter 6-cylinder emphasize comfort over performance, while those with the more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged 6-cylinder have a lot more steam without sacrificing civility. The Volvo S80 feels confident and capable enough with either powerplant, but the difference in spirit and response between the two is significant. Those seeking an even more sporting experience in the all-wheel-drive T6 version of the S80 can opt for the Dynamic Package, which lowers the ride height and features firmer springs and anti-roll bars. But be advised – the sharper performance comes at a cost in comfort as the ride is considerably stiffer.

As you’d expect of a Swedish-designed car, the 2013 Volvo S80’s 5-passenger cabin is straightforward and functional. To direct ventilation to your head or torso, for instance, press the corresponding area on the human-shaped controls. Audio and navigation functions benefit from a high-resolution 7-inch color display. Leather covers the seats, steering wheel and gearshift knob, and can also be had on the dash and armrests. The front bucket seats are ultra-supportive and feature 8-way power for both driver and passenger. The rear seats fold down to increase cargo space, which is good as trunk space is rather tight.

The 2013 Volvo S80 isn’t exactly an exercise in trend-setting design, but it’s still a handsome car and one that may stand the test of time better than more edgy rivals. It has a graceful, sweeping roofline, and its strong shoulders, angular hood and twin tailpipes suggest some athleticism. Volvo’s signature flowing taillights continue to make a statement of elegance. Base models ride on 17-inch wheels, and turbocharged versions get 18-inch alloy wheels.

CITY SAFETY
At city-street speeds, if the system senses impending contact with a vehicle or other object, and the driver does not apply the brakes, the car will stop itself. While it’s best for drivers to not be distracted in the first place, the City Safety system really can help.

3.0-LITER TURBOCHARGED ENGINE
Combining impressive maximum output with a fat, flat torque curve, the 2013 S80 T6 AWD’s turbocharged engine puts out nearly as much power as the V8 offered a couple of years ago.

All 2013 Volvo S80 models are equipped with the City Safety automatic braking feature, leather seating, walnut wood inlays, a 7-inch color display, dual-zone climate control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, rain-sensing windshield wipers, Bluetooth, and a pollen filter. The standard audio system puts out 160 watts through eight speakers and includes an AM/FM/CD/HD Radio receiver with iPod, USB and auxiliary inputs.

Two step-up trims are available on both S80 models: Premier Plus includes front and rear park assist and a built-in Homelink garage door opener, while Platinum adds a 12-speaker, 650-watt premium audio system and voice-controlled navigation system with a rear-view camera. Additional option packages on all S80s are the Climate Package with heated front and rear seats, and the Technology Package that includes adaptive cruise control and lane-departure and collision warning systems. In addition, the T6 AWD model offers a Dynamic package for a more sporting ride, and the Inscription Package adds loads of fine leather and a wood steering wheel.

Volvo S80 models are powered solely by inline 6-cylinder engines. The base offering is a normally-aspirated 3.2-liter that produces 240 horsepower and is available only with front-wheel-drive. It is adequate to move this mid-size sedan, but hardly inspiring. Drivers who relish more excitement behind the wheel or simply want the security of effortless acceleration will prefer the turbocharged 3.0-liter six that makes a stout 300 horsepower and an even more impressive 325 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine is paired with all-wheel drive, which offers superior grip on slippery surfaces. Both engines are connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission that can be manually shifted if desired. A Sport mode is added to the transmission this year. Both engines can run on less-expensive regular unleaded gasoline. And here’s another surprise: The S80 is rated to tow up to 3,300 pounds.

3.2-liter inline-6
240 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
236 lb-ft of torque @ 3,200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/29 mpg

3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6
300 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
325 lb-ft of torque @ 2,100-4,200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/26 mpg