The Volvo S80 is an alternative choice of large executive saloon. Its competitors include popular names like the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Mercedes E-Class and Jaguar XF.

The current-generation S80 has been on sale since 2006 but was last updated as recently as 2014 with a number of design tweaks alongside engine improvements, adding to its executive appeal.

Both front and rear bumpers have been enhanced making the car look wider and lower while the rectangular daytime running lights at the front, along with a redesigned grille and enlarged Volvo ironmark give the S80 nose a more modern look. There’s also extra chrome detailing and the option of adding 19-inch alloys. A new D4 diesel engine was also introduced during the most recent updates for the S80.

With so many illustrious rivals to compete against, the Volvo S80 is one of those cars that often goes under the radar. However, its understated styling has stood the test of time and this refreshed model along with a new D4 diesel engine makes a lot of sense if you are a business driver or cover lots of miles.

Performance

It’s never going to go toe-to-toe with sports cars or even ‘hot’ saloon cars, but the S80’s engine line-up is full of surprises.

We tested the 2.0-litre D4 diesel engine, which produces 179bhp and is mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or a slick eight-speed automatic ‘box. With this unit the Volvo has plenty of vigour throughout each gear. The 0-62mph sprint for the D4-powered automatic S80 is covered in 8.4 seconds.

Other diesel engines offered with the S80 include the less powerful but still punchy 1.6-litre D2 with 113bhp, mated to a six-speed automatic ‘box.

Topping the engine selection is the 2.4-litre D5 diesel, linked with a six-speed automatic ‘box and delivering as much as 212bhp.

When driving the D4 or D5 S80, overtaking is child’s play and best of all, it feels extremely smooth at speed.

Ride and Handling

The set-up is aimed at comfort, but the chassis feels quite good and the S80 is nimble for such a big car.

Unlike some of the brands it competes against, Volvo does not really have a reputation for making saloons with exciting handling, and the S80 is not an exception. The S80 is not a car that will appeal to enthusiasts, but saying that, it is surprisingly quick. The set-up is aimed at comfort, but the chassis feels quite good and the S80 is nimble for such a big car. Downsides are that the steering lacks feel and is not as direct as the class-leading BMW 5 Series. The best environment for the S80 is traversing the motorways. The Volvo is incredibly smooth and relaxing to drive while the seats are very comfortable. Volvo’s seats are probably the best in the business and those in the S80 do not disappoint. On our test car, the S80 had an optional driving feature called ‘Active 4 C chassis’ which really makes a difference. It gives the option of three driving settings and changes the dynamics of the car from Comfort to Normal to Sport.

Interior and Equipment

The official state car for the King of Sweden is a stretched version of the Volvo S80.

The S80 comes with plenty of equipment. Highlights include the Sensus infotainment device, which enables internet connectivity in the car and comes with a seven-inch touch screen. It also supports voice-activation commands. Other luxuries standard with this Volvo saloon includes sat-nav, cruise control, climate control and alloy wheels. Like all Volvos, the S80 also comes loaded with safety gadgets including Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with full auto brake and is equipped with an advanced sensor system that scans the area ahead. If a cyclist heading in the same direction suddenly swerves out in front of the car as it approaches from behind and collision is imminent, there is an instant warning and full braking power is applied. The technology also detects if a pedestrian steps out into the road in front of the car. In a similar fashion, if the driver does not respond in time, the car emits a warning and can automatically activate the brakes. Not only are the S80’s seats comfy, there’s also plenty of head and legroom for adult passengers in both the front and rear of this saloon. The boot of the Volvo, however, measures just 422 litres. This is much less than what’s offered with other similar sized executive saloons. The BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 and Mercedes E-Class offer 520, 530 and 540 litres at the back respectively.

Cost

For saloon buyers prioritising running costs, the D2 and D4 engines in the S80 make far more sense than the much more potent D5 unit.

Pricing for the S80 line-up is closely matched to its main German rivals, especially the BMW 5 Series, but it does undercut the Audi A6 and Mercedes E-Class. The Jaguar XF saloon’s starting does undercut the Volvo however. In terms of running costs, the S80 also favours well next to its direct competitors, offering cleaner engines in comparison. For saloon buyers prioritising running costs, the D2 and D4 engines in the S80 make far more sense than the much more potent D5 unit. The model we test drove - with the D4 engine and automatic ‘box - averages 65.7mpg and emits 113g/km in CO2. The most efficient S80 in the range uses the same engine but a manual ‘box, where it averages 70.6mpg and emits just 104g/km.  The D2 diesel returns similarly attractive figures, averaging 68.9mpg and emitting 109g/km in CO2.

Our Verdict

The Volvo S80 faces some very good competition but it appeals thanks to its strong and efficient diesel engines, low running costs and comfortable interior. Improvements in fuel economy and lowering CO2 emissions is vital for the S80 to compete in the executive sector and the fresh D4 engine has succeeded in making the S80 more competitive. There are some areas of concern, however, particularly with boot space. Also, the S80’s drive is smooth but competitors like the Jaguar XF and especially the BMW 5 Series also impress. Ultimately, the Volvo S80 doesn’t quite carry the appeal of a BMW 5 Series but it is easily one of the most comfortable models in its sector. Making it a great choice for company car drivers.