Volvo S80

Redesigned for 2007, the S80 showcases Volvo's latest safety features and gets two new engines. The smooth V8 was developed by Yamaha and used on all-wheel-drive models, while front-wheel-drive S80s get the 3.2-liter six-cylinder. A turbocharged six-cylinder joins the line soon. The optional blind-spot monitoring system and radar-based active cruise control work well. Another system can warn the driver if the car is following too close, which can be useful for inattentive drivers. The rear seat is less spacious and access is somewhat compromised compared with the previous generation S80.

Volvo's S80 flagship debuted for 1999 but was never a top contender in its class. It has lots of interior room, a comfortable ride, and fairly nimble handling. Some controls were awkward but somewhat improved for 2005. The standard engine was a fairly lively 2.9-liter inline six-cylinder. The turbocharged T6 offers quick and effortless acceleration. An AWD version with a turbo five-cylinder engine debuted for 2004.