As listed in CarPoint's FutureStock Calendar, the new Volvo S80 is due for Australian showrooms in September this year, offered in V8 or in-line six-cylinder models.
Volvo's new flagship sedan has moved up significantly from the current model with a new AWD V8 version to head the lineup when it arrives. Under the bonnet is a 235kW/440Nm 4.4-litre V8 driving all four wheels through a six-speed automatic. Also in the lineup will be a front-drive petrol model using a new 172kW/320Nm in-line six-cylinder engine and a 136kW/400Nm five-cylinder turbo diesel.
Volvo says offering a V8 model in the line-up is a must in order to compete in the luxury segment of its biggest market, the US, and that its inclusion will bring new customers to the brand.
"We are convinced that the all-new Volvo S80 will be a very strong contender. It will win over and impress many new customers. We expect 70 per cent of our annual volume of 50,000 cars to be purchased by customers who do not drive a Volvo today," says Fredrik Arp, President and CEO of Volvo Cars.
The V8, ex-XC90, is claimed to be the world's most compact, utilising a 60-degree angle. Volvo has also reversed the offset of the cylinders, leading with those on the left, and the engine is manufactured in light aluminium alloy.
"With a powerful V8 in the S80, we can reach out to the most discerning of customers," says Derek Crabb, Vice President of the powertrain division at Volvo Cars. "In the prestige class, there are many buyers who would never consider any other engine alternative."
The S80 also debuts Volvo's adaptive cruise control, which maintains a safe distance to the vehicle in front. Volvo's version boasts collision warning and brake assistance functions, which detects sudden braking and alerts the driver with a buzzer, and prepares the braking system for maximum effectiveness.
Ever-innovative, Volvo has designed an in-car personal security system like no other. The PCC (Personal Car Communicator) remote control unit which can check the security level, for example if the car is locked or whether the alarm has been activated, and has a heartbeat sensor to detect if someone is hiding inside the car.
VOLVO S80
Petrol
4.4-litre - V8 - 232kW/440Nm
3.2-litre - Inline 6 - 175kW/320Nm
Diesel
D5 - Inline 5 - 136kW/400Nm