Volvo S80 D4

S80 D4 Review

Volvo Auto India has silently introduced the refurbished version of its premium saloon Volvo S 80 in the automobile market. This 2014 version is made available in just two trim levels, wherein the Volvo S 80 D4 trim is entry level variant. This particular trim is powered by the same old 2.0-litre twin turbo diesel power plant that generates 1984cc. This engine is paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission gearbox that enables the vehicle to return 16 Kmpl. This latest version comes with minor cosmetic tweaks in terms of exteriors such as a restructured radiator grille and a stylized new bumper. As far as interiors are concerned, it comes with an innovative and a fully digital instrument cluster with three color schemes such as ECO, Performance and Elegance. In addition to these, the company has improved the safety aspects of this vehicle by incorporating city safety along with laser assisted braking mechanism. The remaining aspects of this saloon have been retained from the outgoing trim. The company placed this saloon against the likes of BMW 5 series, Audi A6 and Jaguar XF in the luxury car segment.

Exteriors:

The 2014 version of Volvo S 80 comes with a fascinating new look with refreshed cosmetics. The manufacturer has updated both the front and rear profiles of this saloon, while keeping the side profile untouched. On its rear profile, it comes with a slightly tweaked angular taillight cluster, which is incorporated with high intensity lights. In the center, it is decorated with a chrome plated strip along with the company's insignia. Furthermore, the chrome embellishment has also been given to the bumper that dazzles the rear profile. The wheel arches on the side profile comes equipped with a set of 17-inch alloy wheels that gives an elegant look to the sides. Furthermore, the window sill surround gets a thick chrome garnish, which is further enhancing the magnificence of its side profile. The ORVMs and the door handles come with body color paint, wherein the ORVMs have been incorporated with turn indicators. The front facade of this saloon gets a re-treated radiator grille, which is treated with a lot of chrome. Surrounding this grille is the sleekly crafted headlight cluster that comes incorporated with projector headlamps and turn indicators. In addition to this, the company has made changes to the front bumper by incorporating a sleek and wide air intake section, which is further fitted with horizontally positioned strips. On the whole, the new 2014 Volvo S 80 D4 trim gets an eye-catching new look better than other luxury saloons in its class.

Interiors:

The interiors of this all new Volvo S 80 D4 trim comes with new features, while most of the design remains to be the same like its outgoing trim. Both the front and rear seats come with leather covers wherein the front seats have heating ability. Here the driver seat is further equipped with an power adjustable function. The design of the dashboard has been retained from the earlier trim and it is equipped with an advanced central console along with a fully digital instrument cluster. The company has given a lot of chrome embellishments to the interiors, while the dashboard gets dark wood inlays and a leather wrapped steering wheel. This variant comes with an advanced dual zone electronic climate control unit with air quality system, which keeps the ambiance pleasant. It also has electrically heated rear windows and a sun roof. In addition to this, the manufacturer has installed numerous utility based features like storage unit in central console, cup holders, accessory power sockets, rear center armrest , bottle holders, map pockets, sunglass holder and many other such features.

Engine and Performance:

The manufacturer has equipped this entry level trim with an advanced 2.0-litre in-line diesel power plant that comes with 1984cc displacement capacity. This engine is integrated with 5-cylinders, 20-valves and a twin-turbo charger that unleashes 163Bhp at 3500rpm, while generating a peak torque of about 400Nm at 1500 to 2750rpm. The company has coupled this sophisticated engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission gearbox that distributes the torque output to the front wheels. This vehicle has the ability to reach a top speed in the range of 217 Kmph and it can breach the 100 Kmph speed mark in just a matter of 9.7 seconds.

Braking and Handling:

The company has equipped all the four wheels of this sedan with ventilated disc brakes, which works well in all weather and road conditions. In a bid to reinforce the braking mechanism, the company has also installed anti-lock braking system along with an emergency brake assist system . On the other hand, it comes with a highly responsive power steering system with speed related function, which offers a precise response depending on the speed level.

Comfort Features:

The newly introduced Volvo S 80 D4 is the entry level variant, but it comes with a number of innovative features. The list includes an advanced automatic AC unit with climate and air quality control, all four power windows with one touch function, leather seats, speed sensitive power steering, rear armrest with cup holder and storage, cruise control system, front and rear park assist system and numerous other functions. The company has also installed a high performance audio system with single DVD player and an MP3 decoder. It also comes incorporated with AUX-In, USB and Bluetooth handsfree and audio streaming function with steering mounted controls .

Safety Features:

The company is offering this entry level trim with sophisticated safety features. The list includes an intelligent driver information system, an emergency brake assist system with brake light, cut-off switch passenger airbag, dual front, side and SIPS airbags and many other features. It also comes with alarm and interior movement sensor, key integrated remote control, central locking , home safe lighting, personal car communication with key less drive and a rear door power child lock.

Pros:

1. Innovative comfort and safety features.

2. Exterior style is aerodynamic and captivating.

Cons:

1. Paddle shifters and executive leather soft upholstery can be equipped.

2. Fuel efficiency can be better.