Dual-clutch gearboxes are the in-thing right now. Volvo’s version, called Powershift, is now offered in its S80 2.0T.
A turbocharged engine with a capacity of two litres is not new to the S80, but this unit is the first with direct injection.
Volvo says that this engine “is as powerful as a 2.5-litre 5-cylinder” – an apt description as the Volvo S80 2.0T replaces the 2.5T (some units of which are still available for sale here).
With outputs of 203bhp and 300Nm, the engine feels punchy at all revs and it is more than capable of hauling this almost 1.7-tonne Swedish saloon around.
The only time the Volvo S80’s “heaviness” can be felt is when moving off from standstill, so you need to be more forceful with the throttle pedal.
This engine is similar in characteristics to all Volvo turbo units, i.e. it produces max torque across a wide range – 1750rpm to 4000rpm – and this makes the car very easy to drive.
Around town and on the expressways, overtaking and cruising are performed with consummate ease.
My only gripe about this powerplant is that it lets out a rather loud “chatter” at idle and low revs.
The Powershift unit is equipped with six forward ratios. You can leave the gear lever in “D” and let the electronics do the work for you, or you can play Volvo touring car ace Robert Dahlgren by selecting the gears yourself.
I prefer leaving it in “D” because there is a slight delay when you do it manually.
Volvo S80’s dual-clutch gearbox works best in its fully automatic “D” mode.
The Volvo S80 2.0T is priced at just under $200,000, which is great value for money.
Amenities include multi-zone climate control, powered front seats and an eight-speaker audio system complete with four amps.
Being a Volvo, the S80 also has many safety features, including Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (which keeps the car under control should you skid), numerous airbags and Volvo’s patented whiplash prevention system.
The Volvo S80 2.0T should sell well, because it is roomy, comfortable and handles well for a large saloon.
Add in Volvo’s battalion of safety equipment, and this Swedish newcomer represents a “safe” buy for the value-conscious family man.
Volvo S80 2.0 (A)
ENGINE 1999cc, 16-valves, inline-4, turbocharged
MAX POWER 203bhp at 6000rpm
MAX TORQUE 300Nm at 1750-4000rpm
GEARBOX 6-speed dual-clutch with manual select
0-100KM/H 8.5 seconds
TOP SPEED 230km/h
CONSUMPTION 12km/L (combined)
PRICE INCL. COE $199,000 (as of November 2010)
Check out the successor to the Volvo S80, the Volvo S90 and its estate variant, the V90
