The Volvo S80 is offered in several engines – a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, 4.4-litre V8 that comes with AWD, or a few diesel engined variants (arguably, the latter being the most sensible). Surprising is the flexible four and five cylinder units allow smooth acceleration and are relaxed when cruising. On the downside, the automatic gearbox can be too avid at times in the kick down.

In terms of the ride, the Dynamic Chassis can prove unnerving on the majority of road surfaces, even more so on uneven roads. Opt for the Comfort Chassis however, and you’ll experience less of a jittery ride. Thankfully this is a free option. Volvo has incorporated an optional suspension system (The Active Four-C), but it offers little enhancement and the benefits do not offset the extra cost. Handling and grip are adequate but not exceptional, and steering feels vague at times.

Cabin noise is minimal, even on the highway stretch or during windy conditions. The suspension isn’t as good as one might expect from a Volvo of this caliber. The petrol engines provide the right amount of grunt without the noise; they are impressively easy on the ears, albeit the D3 and D5 grumble vociferously under strain. The drive is a comfortable one nonetheless. The seats and steering wheel have a generous level of adjustment, while the switchgear is well positioned and within comfortable reach. There are also intuitive buttons that direct airflow. The S80 does let down with its chunky windscreen pillars as they block frontal vision considerably.

Spaciousness and comfort come hand in hand with this big saloon car. It comfortably seats 4 adult occupants. Boot space is adequate but could potentially be more munificent. This is somewhat resolved by rear split-fold seats (60/40) which caters for larger cargo loads. Oddment storage is another plus.

The S80 is fitted with many bells and whistles, including climate control, electric driver’s seat adjustment, and MP3-compatible stereo. Opt for the Lux pack and you gain heated seats trimmed in soft leather and rear parking sensors. Either SE or SE Lux models can be further upgraded to the Premium spec, which includes leather trim and SAT-NAV. Even higher, the Top-spec Executive versions feature walnut wood dashboard inlays, a seat massage function and an inbuilt fridge. Snazzy!

The cabin is stylish and modern, but remains true to the Volvo ‘classic’ design aesthetic. Arguably, the aesthetic is not as sophisticated as that of the rivaling BMW 5 Series though.

The S80 is competitively priced which is good, but it also fosters a heavy depreciation rate when compared to its market competitors. Maintenance costs are improved though, due to prolonged servicing intervals.

Safety is what you would expect from Volvo – in most cases, perfect. The S80 has stability control, six airbags and active anti-whiplash head restraints as standard. Options include sensors (they warn the driver if a vehicle enters your blindspot) and adaptive cruise control that keeps you a safe distance from the car in front. Deadlocks and an alarm are fitted to all models to discourage thieves.

A capable market competitor that delivers adequately on the design, drive and safety fronts.