S80 2006 | Volvo | Car Reviews

Volvo S80 (2006 - )

Alternative to Mercedes E-Class for big, prestigious five-seater 'private hire' operators and owners simply wanting a big, safe, solid car. Much improved

Very close to E Class prices, except for sensible, entry level 2.0 litre models. Few will buy the 4WD I6 and V8.

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INSURANCE: This car is in insurance groups 10–18. Find out more here »

ROAD TAX: This car is in VED bands C–M. Find out more here »

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Introduction

It used to be called ‘Carriage Trade'. Now ‘Private Hire'.

Those Middle Eastern guys in sharp suits, sunglasses and E220 CDIs who show up to take you to a TV studio.

I wondered what they would think of the new Volvo S80 D5.

It's a big, comfortable car that feels immensely strong, cruises at 2,000rpm at 70, yet definitely keeps you in touch with the road both through the steering and the seat of your pants.

Soft it isn't.

It's a full five seater with plenty of head and legroom even for piggy in the middle in the back. The boot is huge, with a flap that folds up from the floor to divide it in two and hide an illegal immigrant.

Whether the private hire guys see it that way depends on how their customers view a Volvo badge against a three pointed star.

But 39.6mpg in a lot of traffic would certainly sway me.

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Last updated 6 January 2012

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