2009 Volvo S80 User Reviews

Pros

It's the new 'P3' chassis as instructed by the parent company. The 'P2' chassis cars are 100% Volvo

Cons

Starting to look too 'Ford-like' for my taste. I've owned Volvos since 1983. Ford should leave.

As the owner of an '01 Euro XC-70 (P2), '92 Euro 854 GTAS (850/s-70), and '83 240 GL (antique status now, 290K miles). They all have been reliable until the 2002's where the 'other' influence began to interfere with Sweden's designs to make them cheaper.

My Euro XC-70 T6 is the nicest one I've owned (due to general improvements in technology), but the current 'ownership' has taken technology and reduced the R&D budget, reducing what we in the US get... Go to Europe and pick up a Euro. It's cheaper too!

The XC-70 and S-80 share the same chassis, with minor changes and the obvious sedan vs wagon.

I would like to get an S-80 now, but think the only way to get a REAL Volvo (like we ALL know) is to go direct to the factory and get it (again). As for my other 3, they are keepers. Yes, I am considering an E-350 Daimler-Benz, but for now, my P2-XC70 is the keeper. Simple fact.... Harrisburg Pa - Dallas Tx in 21 hours, stopping for food and fuel only... with NO fatigue upon arrival. THAT is what a Volvo owner should expect and that is what they are known for... being the #2 safest / most comfortable / reliable car.

Cost of ownership is, by experience, 1/3 that of US cars (fuel, insurance, and maintenance). This includes ALL Dealer maintenance as scheduled and ONLY letting a Dealer touch it. You will get tired of it before you wear it out. my 240GL has 289,000 miles and at last test (270K service) STILL has near factory delivery spec compression in the cylinders (180 psi). My 850 is still flawless after 15 years. These cars are 400K mile cars, with 500K+ miles NOT AT ALL uncommon... THAT is the REAL Volvo.

I, personally, am going to wait for the 'REAL Volvo' to return (rumors say 'very soon') and be back to doing it THEIR WAY! Should I decide to get a new one (S-80), it's going to be an 'Autobahner' equipped. Tough enough to handle Swedish roads in winter and Summer heat in Texas without a flinch.

PS: 27/32 MPG is NOT uncommon for me (2.5 T6) on 93 Octane fuel (not cheap 93 either, get the 'GOOD stuff').

Enjoy and feel free to comment to Volvo Cars/North America (VCNA) and let them know how you feel. It's not the dealer's fault, but VCNA does have input back to corporate which IS heard.

So, get a nice P2 S-80 (not the P3), pay to get the new features added, and you will be ahead of the game until Volvo is left alone to be Volvo again.


Good luck, safe travels.