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2010 Volvo S80 Launched

VOLVO AUSTRALIA has today announced the launch of the updated-for-2010 Volvo S80, featuring a host of revisions and a new variant in the line-up.
The arrival of the updated S80 was heralded by Volvo’s launch last month of its brand-new twin-turbo D5 dies

Mike Stevens

06:3705 January 2010

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2010 Volvo S80 Launched

VOLVO AUSTRALIA has today announced the launch of the updated-for-2010 Volvo S80, featuring a host of revisions and a new variant in the line-up.

The arrival of the updated S80 was heralded by Volvo's launch last month of its brand-new twin-turbo D5 diesel engine, available not only with the big saloon but also with the XC60 and XC70.

Styling

While not yet wearing the new corporate face seen on the new XC60, refreshed C30 and upcoming S60, the 2010 S80 gets a new grille with a larger Volvo 'iron mark' badge.

First reported by TMR in July last year, Volvo has added an R-Design version of the S80 to its Australian line-up, making it a dedicated model variant rather than an optional package.

Adding unique 18-inch wheels, the R-Design S80 gets lowered sports-tuned suspension, colour-matched rear spoiler, chrome exhausts and matte silver grille and exterior mirrors.

Each model in the 2010 S80 line-up features an R-Design variant.

Interior

Inside, the updated S80 gets a new four-spoke steering wheel with deco inlay components, along with revised window switches and a new aluminium trim to the S80's signature 'floating' centre console and ignition key bezel.

New 'Dynamic' upholstery with extra bolstering has been added to the S80's seats, while the gearshift is refreshed with the same deco inlays found on the steering wheel.

"'It is the combination of a number of carefully thought-out details that together creates the overall aura. Since eight out of ten customers specify leather upholstery, the seats are a good example," Volvo Cars Design Director Steve Mattin said of the updated S80.

"Here we have focused on comfort by creating unbeatable seating and side support, accentuated further by the superb quality of the soft Scandinavian hide".

Equipment and Features

Much of the S80's equipment and feature set is carried over unchanged from the outgoing 2009 model.

Volvo's VNS navigation system, standard on V8 models and optional on T6 and D5 models, has been updated with a new black background and new user-friendly icons.

On the safety front, the updated S80 features Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Volvo's Side Impact Protection System (SIPS), Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS), seatbelt pre-tensioners in all seats and emergency flashing brake lights.

Dual-stage front airbags, seat-mounted side airbags and inflatable curtain airbags are standard across the S80 range.

The range-topping V8, producing 232kW, gains Lane Departure Warning with Driver Alert Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning and Auto Brake functions.

Mechanical Package

Joining the existing T6 and V8 petrol engines, Volvo's brand-new D5 twin-turbo 2.4 litre diesel engine develops 151kW at 4000rpm and 420Nm of torque between 1750 and 3000rpm. Fuel economy for the new D5 diesel is listed as 6.2 l/100km.

All-wheel-drive is now standard across the S80 range, with a Haldex clutch distributing power between front and rear wheels according to conditions.

The all-wheel-drive system includes Instant Traction, designed to set a bias of 80Nm of torque to the rear wheels when taking off on slippery or loose surfaces.