2008 Volvo S80 Features Review

Despite their complex and even intimidating appearance, the 2008 Volvo S80's features are plentiful, practical, and user-friendly--earning it the unusual distinction of a perfect score of 10 in this area from TheCarConnection.com.

In terms of standard features, Kelley Blue Book reports that the Volvo S80 has a lengthy list, including "numerous power assists, including eight-way adjustment for the front seats, a tilt and telescopic steering column, dual-zone climate control, 160-watt/eight-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with an auxiliary input and MP3 capability, [and] power sunroof." Edmunds notes that buyers of the 2008 Volvo's V-8 trim "get a wider set of 17-inch wheels and tires, higher-grade leather upholstery, additional wood trim, an interior air quality system and Volvo's Personal Car Communicator (PCC) system," which "combines keyless startup with a security system that uses two-way radio technology to monitor the car's security status."

Kelley Blue Book reports that the Volvo S80's optional Climate Package includes "heated front and rear seats" as well as a Dynaudio Package, which adds "650-watt/12-speaker Dolby Surround Sound system with six-disc CD changer, SIRIUS Satellite Radio and rear-seat audio controls." Edmunds is enthusiastic about the 2008 Volvo's seats and sound system as well: "Dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-speaker stereo with an in-dash CD changer and an MP3 player jack, Bluetooth and one-touch power windows are also included."

Other options available for this year's Volvo S80, according to J.D. Power, include heated windshield wash nozzles, rain-sensor wipers, and headlamp cleaning, along with a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system.

Those who have experienced the rather complicated features of similar Audi and BMW vehicles will appreciate the simplicity of the 2008 Volvo S80. When first confronted by the various devices that are available on the Volvo S80, Cars.com reports that you'll notice "buttons...lots of them." However, these "allow you to turn on the air, stereo, safety features and more with a simple push; there are no complicated menus for simple tasks, just buttons." ConsumerGuide reassures prospective buyers for this 2008 Volvo that "the gauges are easy to read. While the abundance of buttons can seem complicated, the controls are actually very easy to use."