An engine that's up to the task
The 311-hp V8 is nice, but in reality, we don't really need all that power for our daily commute. The 3.2-liter inline-6 develops 235 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque and 0-100 km/h accelerations take 7.9 seconds. My fuel consumption average is 12.6 L/100 km.

Curiously, a turbocharged version of the 6-cylinder engine, which develops 285 hp, is also available in Europe and in the USA, but not in Canada. It doesn't matter, actually, because the base engine is enough, in my opinion.

The 3.2-liter inline-6 develops 235 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque and 0-100 km/h accelerations take 7.9 seconds.

The all-wheel drive system is front-wheel biased under normal driving, and distributes power to the rear wheels when slippage is detected. Audi and BMW all-wheel drive systems are rear-wheel biased, by the way. In short, the system works imperceptibly, especially with winter tires, as is the case with out test car.

Skip the optional suspension
This S80 is also equipped with the Luxury Package, which includes what Volvo calls Active Chassis Four-C. It's essentially a three-setting suspension and related steering recalibration. The driver can select between Comfort, Sport and Advanced buttons located just above the shift lever.

In theory, it's interesting, but in practice, it's not very useful. Under normal driving situations, there isn't a very big difference between Comfort and Sport modes, apart from a slightly harsher ride when choosing the latter. One must really push the car to perceive a real distinction between the two settings, and if you're doing that, you might as well just buy a sports car, period.

As for the Advanced mode, Volvo claims that is should be selected on flat pavement, which doesn't really exist here in Quebec. After spending some time in each of the three modes, I just left pushed Comfort mode and left it there, just like most people will do anyhow.

Competition
The S80 3.2 AWD costs $54,995 and our car is equipped with the Luxury Package ($3,300) and the Security Package ($3,445). Add another $650 for metallic paint, and the tab climbs to $62,390. With such expensive option groups, we're getting to the S80 V8's $64,995 price.

The interior is very attractive and constitutes a strong selling argument.