…Style, Sophistication, Safety and Scandinavian
NEW YORK (April 12, 2006) - The all-new Volvo S80, the flagship of the Volvo sedan line, is a completely new premium car with elegant styling, a long list of breakthrough safety technology, and two highly sophisticated new engine choices. The all-new S80 represents an exemplary driving experience – all packaged in an aura of ‘Scandinavian luxury.’
Volvo Car Corporation anticipates production of about 50,000 new S80 cars annually. North America will be the largest market.
Safety Innovations (Past and Present)
The first generation Volvo S80, the first car to achieve 5-star crash test ratings in the United States, pioneered such safety innovations as the Inflatable Curtain (IC) and Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) seating.
The next generation S80 again raises the bar in safety. Innovations in passive safety include a new side airbag with dual chamber construction for enhanced hip and chest protection, clever structural design that uses four different grades of steel for predictable crash energy absorption, the next generation of WHIPS rear impact protection and new approaches to pedestrian safety.
Focus On Active Safety
Volvo has placed an emphasis on active safety. As a result, the all-new S80 introduces features such as: adaptive cruise control; advanced functions to help shorten braking distance; swiveling bi-Xenon headlights that follow the car’s steering; collision warning systems; and, a Personal Communicator remote car monitor - a world’s first.
Scandinavian Design (Outside and In)
In its outward appearance, the second generation Volvo S80 presents clean, elegant lines and a dynamic profile, with dimensions that are slightly wider and taller, yet retains approximately the same overall length as its predecessor at 191 inches. Its wheelbase is also longer and the track is wider.
The generous interior space includes a wide range of intelligently designed functions, an ultra-slim centre console, one of the world’s best audio systems and a strong Scandinavian influence where every detail has been meticulously designed according to form and function.
New Power Sources
The all new Volvo S80 will be the first Volvo sedan with a V8 engine, as well as the first sedan with the highly sophisticated new Volvo in-line 6-cylinder engine. Both are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with Geartronic sequential shifting. All Volvo S80 V8s will be equipped with the electronically controlled Volvo All-Wheel-Drive feature, while the in-line six S80 will be standard front-wheel drive.
Dynamic Driving Characteristics
The highly refined ride and handling of the all-new Volvo S80 can be attributed to an extremely rigid chassis structure. Performance and the drive experience are enhanced by the available Four C active suspension, adjustable power steering, and a host of measures that help keep noise, vibration, harshness and road irregularities from intruding into the luxurious interior.
One of the Best Audio Sound Systems Available
The all-new Volvo S80 can be equipped with one of the best audio systems in the world: Volvo Premium Sound. A digital amplifier from Alpine with Bang & Olufsen PowerHouse ICEPower® technology, Dolby® Pro Logic II Surround and loudspeakers from Dynaudio® of Denmark create an audio experience of the acoustically purest form.
Inviting, Intelligent, Accessible
The all-new Volvo S80 integrates all of the technology and design features into a luxury car that is inviting, intelligent, and accessible. “We’re challenging the very best in the segment by offering refined Scandinavian luxury – in other words, clean and elegant lines combined with intelligent functionality. Every single detail has been designed with a firm focus on the user’s well-being,” says Fredrik Arp, president and chief executive officer of Volvo Cars.
