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2004 Volvo S80 AWD Road Test

Upscale Style and More Performance

Before talking road test details, I just need to say that I find Volvos interiors to be among the most attractive and logically laid-out of any mass produced vehicle, regardless of pedigree or price. In the recently updated S80, form and function come together like peanut butter and toast, or bacon and eggs - its just that good.

Volvos reputation for safety is even more renowned - and thats notoriety that every car company ought to strive for. But it wasnt until the introduction of the 1999 S80 that the Swedish brand developed a reputation for style. The S80 broke Volvos square as a brick design language, which drew much criticism from many journalists and a large segment of the motoring public. I must

Form and function come together at a superb level in the new Volvo S80. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

say though, that Id always admired Volvos courage for being unique in the styling department; there is no mistaking a 740 for a Ford Taurus!

Now that youve conjured up an image of the ovoid midsize sedans lines, lets compare the 2004 Taurus to the latest S80 in terms of size. Believe it or not, the substantial feeling Volvo requires approximately 7 fewer inches of curb space in order to parallel park.

When it was first introduced in 1999, the S80 broke Volvos square as a brick design language. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

In spite of the Volvos brevity, its wheelbase is close to 1.5 inches longer than that of the Taurus. The elongated wheelbase, relative to the vehicles overall length, serves the S80 well. Not only does it improve handling by reducing the front and rear overhangs; it enables interior dimensions similar to those of the Taurus. But thats where the comparisons come to a screeching halt.

Before we leave the issues of size and style

The S80s design remains as fresh, distinctive and appealing as it did some five years ago. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

at the curbside, I want it on record that I continue to admire the exterior styling of the S80. Given that no significant revisions have occurred since its 1999 introduction, its design remains as fresh, distinctive and appealing as it did some five years ago. In the automotive world of fickle fashion, that alone is an achievement worthy of praise.

Perhaps the most meaningful amendment since its inception is the recent introduction of all-wheel-drive. This hardware fundamentally alters

The biggest change and improvement in the updated S80 is the introduction of all-wheel-drive. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

the S80s relevance in the marketplace, instantly transforming it from a better than average front-wheel drive sedan with luxurious pretensions into an all-wheel drive, weather-beating premium sport sedan. And depending in which jurisdiction you reside north of the equator, this can be a very good thing.

In fact the S80 brings many good things to the midsize luxury category. It didnt take long, after picking the vehicle up on a rainy night, to figure that out. Upon climbing into the car with my nine-year old know-it-all in tow, I was immersed

Volvo keeps the S80s interior free of glitzy LCD screens. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

in its sense of tranquility - imparted primarily by a high level of solidity, comfort, plus the brands respected reputation for safety. Before driving away in an unfamiliar vehicle, I always take a few minutes to familiarize myself with the controls, dash layout and options. Then I adjust the seating position, mirrors and steering wheel in order to maximize safety and comfort. The finale in this ritual is the setting of the radio presets, usually a straightforward process but not so in the S80.

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