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The Washington Times Online Edition

Volvo’s distinctive sedan takes on more comfort, performance

Building on great success in key markets, Volvo Cars’ large and exclusive sedan model - Volvo’s 2011 improved S80 - takes centre stage with far greater self-assurance than ever, the result of a more distinctive and elegant design, a more exclusive interior, a sharper chassis and upgraded engine range.

The atmosphere inside is both more comfortable and luxurious, with an increased aura of craftsmanship. The chassis and engine experts have made sure the driving experience is as exclusively attractive as the interior is. With the Executive version as well as R-design and the special long wheel-based S80L specially produced for the Chinese market is the VolvoS80 a real premium sedan.

On the outside the VolvoS80 gives a long, wide and broad impression. The grille’s larger iron mark and the new bright work (on the air intakes, the doors’ lower parts and below the tail lamps) enhance the car’s distinctive impression and give the front added presence.

The headlamps, which are positioned lower than on the earliest S80 models, follow the curvature of the front and are extended along the side and up towards the bonnet, creating a gentle smile at the front.

The doors are convex and pronounced in shape. They include the rearmost side window. The sills have a distinct profile, creating a visually low centre of gravity and imparting a steady and stable appearance.

In order to give the VolvoS80 the right aura of elegance and create an image of being in constant motion, the car has sweeping lines with a comet-shaped profile, an almost imperceptible transition between the rear window and the boot and a cut-off tail section.

The S80 Executive model represents a very competitive alternative for customers who value refined Scandinavian elegance in combination with contemporary engineering - and who are looking for that little extra to enhance the experience. They are car purchasers with strict demands for a sober design, sophisticated comfort and intelligently designed functions and details.

Inside the car the spotlight is on increased exclusivity and comfort. The soft, sumptuous leather seats with matching stitching are accompanied by door panels echoing the same trim.

The super-slim floating centre stack is upgraded with a silk metal frame that emphasizes its original design and enhances its exclusive feel.

The instruments in the refreshed VolvoS80 get exclusive aluminum dials and the new generation of steering wheels. The decor trim with silk matte metal-effect finish on the four-spoke steering wheel is also found in the gear selector, around the starter button.

Since eight out of ten customers specify leather upholstery, Volvo Cars’ designers have focused on comfort by creating unbeatable seating and side support, accentuated further by the superb quality of the soft Scandinavian hide.

Customers with more individual tastes will be able to select upholstery from the exclusive Executive range, which features classic and sober styles.

If the car is equipped with power front seats, they can be optionally specified with upholstery in perforated and ventilated leather. Fans in the seat cushion quickly reduce cushion temperature to a pleasant level and contribute to high seating comfort. The rear seat splits and folds. The front passenger seat backrest can also be folded.

Sun blinds for the rear doors are available as an option.

The VolvoS80 has a new sports chassis that is a more dynamic alternative to the comfort-enhancing standard chassis, which offers limousine ride comfort. Customers thus have the opportunity to tailor their cars to suit their wishes - for inspired and enthusiastic driving or relaxed long-distance comfort.

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