2006 Volvo S80

Volvo's flagship S80 sedan focuses on luxury for 2006 via a simplified model lineup. The range now comprises the S80 2.5T and the S80 2.5T AWD. The previous T6 and T6 Premier variants have been discontinued. Meanwhile, the list of standard equipment for the 2.5T and 2.5T AWD has been greatly enhanced. For example, the former Premium and Sport option packages are now standard.

Thus, the S80 2.5T and 2.5T AWD are fitted with standard leather seating surfaces, power glass moonroof, real wood inlays, a wood-trimmed steering wheel and power passenger's seat. Also included are standard T6 style front and rear sport seats, 17-inch 'Senator' alloy wheels and the more upscale 'watch dial' instrumentation.

Feature content for the optional Convenience Package expands with a new sunglass holder, rear park assist and laminated side windows. New stand-alone options for the S80 2.5T and 2.5T AWD include 18-inch 'Capella' wheels and chrome-finish 17-inch 'Stentor' wheels. Willow Green is a new color that replaces the former Platinum Green and Crystal Green.

New All-Wheel Drive with Instant Traction™ is standard on the S80 2.5T AWD. It mates with the S80's 2.5-liter turbocharged engine for positive, instantaneous torque and optimum launch performance. The improved, computer controlled Haldex all-wheel-drive system instantly delivers up to 50 percent more torque to the rear axle only when needed, such as during takeoff.

Prior to Instant Traction, if the AWD system sensed that the front drive wheels were losing traction – such as on a slippery road – one-seventh of a wheel rotation occurred before it began redirecting torque to the wheels that have traction. This fraction of a rotation could influence performance under certain conditions. Instant Traction adds a one-way pre-charging valve to the AWD system that maintains an instantly available torque load of 59 foot-pounds. Torque can be transferred directly, without any speed difference. As before, there is no need for the driver to worry about engaging the system. It's all done automatically and seamlessly.

The 2006 Volvo S80 sedan features an array of best-in-class safety innovations, including driver and front passenger dual-stage Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags, which work in harmony with the vehicle's three-point seatbelts with pyrotechnic pretensioners. Additional safety features include standard Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) with side airbags and Inflatable Curtain (IC), Whiplash Protection Seating System (WHIPS), seat belts with pyrotechnic pretensioners in all seating positions, plus Volvo's safety cage construction. These major features and myriad occupant safety details have made the S80 an industry standard for occupant protection.

The Volvo S80 received a Five Star/Five Star crash test rating from Ú.S. government agencies and a 'Best Pick' designation by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The S80 has won industry acclaim and contributed new designs and new technologies to the Volvo safety repertoire.

Source - Volvo Cars