For immediate release
The continuous evolution of a fine luxury automobile is one sign that its maker doesn't take its customers for granted. So it is that the continually evolving Volvo S80 re-invents itself for the Canadian market in 2003, but maintains its reputation for quality, safety and a special kind of status that is quietly confident in a world full of extravagant promises.
A true contemporary Volvo, in other words.
From sophisticated telematics to dynamic stability technology for enhanced safety, to a radiator that leaves the air cleaner than it found it, the new S80 2.9 and T6 versions are rolling displays of the state of the company's automotive art after 75 years of success in business.
Fresh from a number of mid-year enhancements last year, the S80 line gets new rain-sensing windshield wipers, a new optional DVD-based Volvo Navigation System and other refinements for 2003.
With its well-earned reputation for style with safety, the Volvo S80 has claimed a share of the luxury market by being a unique and timely interpretation of luxury for a new era. But it is the fine lines of the S80 and the elegant appointments that wrap all of the precise engineering and thoughtful safety features into a true luxury automobile with a European flavour and a particular Volvo point of view.
Inside, the orthopaedically-designed seats with two-level heating and three memory positions keyed to the owners' remote locking modules, fine leather trim and steering wheel (with built in cruise and audio controls), personal security technologies, premium audio systems and dozens of other features all contribute to the simple joy of being in a Volvo S80.
Two model variants -- the Volvo S80 2.9 and S80 T6 -- continue to be the popular alternatives for discerning buyers seeking a new and confident statement of luxury. The S80 2.9 employs a normally-aspirated 2.9-litre in-line 6-cylinder engine with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) technology to optimize both drivability and improve exhaust emissions. Horsepower output is 194 at 5200 rpm; torque is 207 ft.-lbs. at 3900 rpm. The S80 T6 utilizes a turbocharged version of the engine with twin, light-pressure inter-cooled turbochargers to generate 268 hp at 5200 rpm and 280 ft.-lbs. of torque available from 1800 rpm to 5000 rpm. The 2002 enhancements like improved traction control in the Stability & Traction Control (STC) and TRACS system, and a revised engine management system for improved torque and drivability, have ensured that the S80 continues to provide an exhilarating driving experience.
The Volvo S80 also remains as the clear leader in safety, years after pioneering so many innovative technologies that are only now coming into wider use in the auto industry. With a Five Star/Five Star crash test rating from U.S. government agencies and the highest rating for crashworthiness and 'Best Pick' designation by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the S80 has won industry acclaim and contributed new designs and new technologies to the Volvo safety repertoire.
The S80 sedan's best-in-class safety innovations include driver and front passenger dual-stage Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags which work in harmony with the car's three-point seat belts with pyrotechnic pre-tensioners. This 'smart' system uses a sensor to register the severity of an impact and adapts the airbag inflation accordingly while coordinating actions with the seat belt. In case of a severe impact, the airbag is designed to inflate instantly to full capacity at the same time as the seat belt tensioner eliminates any slack in the belt. The belt then 'gives' slightly to gently restrain the occupant before the airbag takes over to complete the safety sequence.
In cases of less severe impact (impact still great enough to cause potential injury), the airbag is designed to inflate in two stages: inflation to 70 per cent of capacity followed by full inflation one-tenth of a second later. Occupants, particularly those sitting closer to the wheel or dashboard, are subject to less force when the bag deploys. The reduced inflation sequence is also used at lower speeds when the system determines that an occupant is not wearing a seat belt.
The Volvo-developed Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) with side air bags for front seat passengers and Inflatable Curtain (IC) protection for front- and rear-seat passengers, Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) front seats, and padded head restraints for all seats, as well as numerous other occupant safety features have helped make the S80 the standard for the industry.
S80 also continues to showcase Volvo Car Corporation's commitment to improved environmental performance. An innovative system helps protect occupants against air pollutants and odours. Part of the standard Security Package, the Interior Air Quality System enhances the performance of the standard pollen and dust filter. The system places a sensor in the cabin air intake to detect nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxides and hydrocarbons in the air. The sensor can switch the ventilation system to re-circulate interior air rather than fill the cabin with exhaust, oil and gas fumes. An additional multi-filter with active carbon elements reduces both particles and airborne toxins.
The luxurious interior not only feels welcoming and comfortable, it's also a cleaner environment. All of the textiles used inside the Volvo S80 are certified in accordance with the international Öko-Tex Standard to also ensure they do not give off harmful vapour or create allergic reactions for sensitive passengers.
Of course, the Volvo S80 pioneered the PremAir™ radiator treatment that converts up to 75 per cent of ground level ozone it encounters into oxygen, and was the first car in the world to come with an Environmental Product Declaration, a comprehensive audit of the environmental impacts and controls in the design, manufacture, use and subsequent recycling of the car.
All Volvo models are covered by a comprehensive 48 month/80,000 kilometre warranty and standard 48 month Volvo On Call roadside assistance program that contribute to worry-free enjoyment for Volvo owners. Volvo automobiles are sold and serviced by authorized Volvo retailers in major markets across Canada.
- 30 -
Information:
Lisa Graham
Volvo Cars of Canada Ltd.
(416)490-5834
lgraha11@volvocars.com
Doug Mepham
MacDonald & Co.
1-877-975-1572
doug.mepham@sympatico.ca
Media website:
09/02
