2004 VOLVO S80 NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Volvo S80?
All-wheel-drive has been added as standard equipment on all 2004 Volvo S80 models equipped with the new 208-horsepower, 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. Additionally, Volvo enhances the lineup with the available Four-C active chassis technology from the S60 R. Four-C employs four electronically regulated shock absorbers to vary dampening according to vehicle speed and road surface conditions. New steering gear from Germany's ZF endows the 2004 Volvo S80 with more responsive and precise steering, and a new top-of-the-line model called Premier includes a dual-screen rear seat DVD entertainment system and a beverage cooler inside the armrest. New options for 2004 include bi-Xenon headlights, a reverse parking aid and a better audio system. Otherwise, the Volvo S80 carries over into 2004 with a few exterior and interior revisions intended to refine the existing design, including restyled front and rear ends as well as a new instrument cluster.

Advantages of the 2004 Volvo S80:

• Cushy and comfortable cabin
• Available all-wheel-drive
• Available Four-C active chassis
• Rear DVD entertainment in Premier edition

Objections to the 2004 Volvo S80:

• Inconsistent dependability history
• Anonymous personality
• Level of luxury not commensurate with price tag

Editor's Advice:
If Sweden has ever produced its rendition of a Buick Park Avenue, the 2004 Volvo S80 is it. The Volvo S80 coddles its occupants in supreme comfort, looks good, drives decently, and in Premier trim fulfills the promise of luxury its price tag dictates. With the addition of available all-wheel-drive, Four-C active chassis, German steering and updated styling the S80's shelf life has been effectively extended.