Forget Paris.  Or Milan.  Or New York.  This year’s must have haute couture comes from unassuming Sweden, and what a piece of work it is.  It oozes style, sensibility and sex appeal.  The fact that this tailor-made suit can be driven as opposed to just being worn is a big bonus by itself.  This is the all-new Volvo S80—certainly one of this year’s most anticipated luxury cars.

For those unfamiliar with automotive history, let’s start out with the fact that Volvos were once square.  Literally.  But in 1998, in what was a stroke of genius, the S80 rolled off the production line with more curves than Scarlett Johansson.  Such is the impact of the S80’s design philosophy that all Volvos succeeding it carried a very similar motif.  Of course, besides style, the S80 continued to be a showcase for the brand’s corporate philosophy: life is the world’s greatest luxury.  Thus, like every Volvo, the S80 was imbued with safety, luxury and care for the environment in mind.  Fast forward a decade later, a new question is begging to be asked: can the second generation S80 continue to be a luxury car trendsetter?

In a word, yes.  The design is fresh, but remains close to Volvo’s DNA.  There’s much better definition to the curves, with tauter lines and a higher window sill.  The headlamps have been chinked for a sportier look, while the trademark upright grille even much more prominence, exuding a strong sense of power.  At the back, the characteristic curved tail lamps have been slimmed down and given LED lights to further enhance the car’s broad shoulders.  Dimensionally, the S80’s length hasn’t changed.  However, the width and height have been increased for more occupant room, while the wheelbase and track widened for better handling and comfort.  Volvo designers said they wanted to convey motion even when the S80’s standing perfectly still.  From what we see, it clearly works.

Inside, the S80 feels inviting and homey even in the gloomiest black/gray scheme (there are several interior combinations possible).  The interior treatment is clean and elegant with minimal fuss and maximum luxury.  Those familiar with Volvo interiors will feel at ease with rounded rectangular theme.  The “floating” center console first seen on the S40/V50 continues to be the main attraction in here.  On Volvo’s flagship though, it was slimmed down and made to extend all the way to the rear seat for a classier feel.  The materials, as usual, are top-notch with special mention given to the ultra-soft, ultra-comfortable seats.  And you just have to leave it to Volvo to give an additional measurement of pampering in the form of cushion mounted fans.

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