On the road, the S80 handles straightaways and turns with assuredness, if a little softly. Its smooth handling and easy ride feel neutralize most road imperfections without totally eliminating road feel. Steering effort is firm, although steering feel itself, like the ride, remains a tad soft.
The brakes just may be the most appealing feature of the S80 driving experience. They grab decisively and pull the big S80 to a stop with authority, even in panic situations. On one stop-and-go-filled test drive, braking distances were consistently overestimated: This car can stop much quicker than you'd think. The S80 came to a stop well behind every stopped car, stop sign and red light.
The 4-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and precisely, most notably at higher loads. But occasionally at lower speeds, a quick stomp on the gas causes the 4-speed unit to trip over itself on downshifts. The momentary bog creates a slight response delay and lurch of the car once the downshift takes place. Next Page