Volvo S80 eyes the big hitters

The latest-gen flagship carries over some of the design elements that distinguished its predecessor, such as the 'waterfall' flanks and protruding snout, but the surface language is far sexier and more contemporary. There's some clear family links with the youth-oriented S40 sedan that debuted here in 2004.

However, arguably more significant than the revamped styling is the new powerplant line-up, which is spearheaded by the 4.4-litre V8 engine that was first offered (at least in overseas markets) in the XC90 SUV.

The addition of the 235kW/440Nm V8 will give the S80 the firepower to compete with eight-cylinder rivals from BMW, Mercedes and Audi. Weighing in the Volvo's favour will be a healthy price advantage. A company insider revealed the S80 V8 will be priced in the $100-110K bracket, and for this money you also get all-wheel-drive, a six-speed auto and DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control).

Meanwhile, the entry-level model will gain a new 3.2-litre in-line six-cylinder engine that replaces the long-in-the-tooth 2.9-litre unit offered in the existing S80. The new 175kW/320Nm six is said to be as compact as a five-pot as the camshaft drive mechanism and ancillaries have been partially integrated into the engine block itself.

Like its V8 sibling, the base model will come with a six-speed auto, but it makes do without all-wheel drive -- relying, instead, on just the front wheels to do the driving.

It wouldn't be a Volvo without a raft of safety gear, and the S80 is unlikely to disappoint. Standard kit will include Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning and Brake Support, which automatically maintains a selected distance from the vehicle in front.

If the distance to the car in front reduces rapidly, the system alerts the river by activating a buzzer and warning lights. At the same time, the braking system is primed for maximum stopping power.